L. Todd Budge, the first counselor in the Presiding Bishopric of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, spoke at a BYU devotional on Oct. 20, 2026, regarding the spiritual significance of using temporal resources, such as tithing and offerings, to assist people worldwide.
Spiritual Purpose of Resources
During the address, titled "Sacred Resources, Sacred Purposes: Caring for God’s Children Around the World," Budge explained that temporal resources are sacred because they are utilized for spiritual purposes. He emphasized that as members present offerings with heartfelt love, those offerings sanctify the giver and draw them closer to God.
Budge shared a personal experience involving a visit to Mongolia with his wife to illustrate the practical application of these funds. He described how the Church worked alongside the local government to install water collection systems in communities that previously lacked access to clean, safe water. This effort serves as an example of how Church resources provide opportunities and assistance to families in need across the globe.
Sacrifice and Christlikeness
Budge addressed questions regarding why disciples should continue to pay tithing and offerings even when the Church possesses significant wealth. To provide historical context, he quoted Joseph Smith during the early saints' construction of the Kirtland Temple. Budge noted that despite having minimal funds at that time, the saints' love for Christ provided the strength necessary to complete His work.
He further noted that the act of giving is more than a transfer of time or money; it is an opportunity for individuals to become Christlike. Budge suggested that sacrifices can demonstrate a willingness to be embraced by the Lord and help strengthen a personal relationship with Christ.
Four Divine Responsibilities
The address outlined four divinely appointed responsibilities that the Church fulfills through its resources. The first responsibility is living the gospel of Jesus Christ. Budge explained that the Church invests in resources, music, and education—including institutions like BYU and seminary—to help people learn and live by Christ's teachings.
The second responsibility is caring for those in need. Budge cited the annual "Caring for Those in Need" report to highlight the scale of these efforts. The Church spent $1.58 billion on humanitarian efforts, which included sponsoring 3,514 projects and accumulating 7.4 million volunteer hours. Through these projects and fast offerings, the Church has supported individuals in 196 countries.
Global Outreach and Family History
The third responsibility is inviting all to receive the gospel. Budge emphasized the efforts of missionaries to share Christ's teachings and invite children of God into the Church. He reported that more than 300,000 people were baptized in 2025.
The fourth responsibility involves uniting families for eternity. Budge explained that the Church uses temporal resources to build temples and support family history work through FamilySearch and Family History Centers. These efforts are intended to facilitate temple blessings that unite families beyond this life.
Call to Service
In his concluding remarks, Budge encouraged students to begin serving others immediately by using the "JustServe" app. He also noted an upcoming event called "Fall Care Week," where Church-partnered NGOs visit BYU to connect students with service project opportunities.
Budge ended his address with an invitation for students to follow the example of Christ by finding anyone to love and to serve.
Devotional Context
The devotional address was part of the 2026 season of BYUtv, specifically appearing as the 24th episode of the season. The presentation focused on the intersection of temporal stewardship and spiritual growth.
