What Benjamin Franklin Teaches Us About Becoming Perfect – Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3

Come, Follow Me: New Testament 2023 (Jan. 23–29)

In his autobiography, Benjamin Franklin wrote about an experiment to become morally perfect. “Twas about this time I conceived the bold and arduous project of arriving at moral perfection. I wish’d to live without committing any fault at any time; I would conquer all that either natural inclination, custom, or company might lead me into” (The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin). 

After reflection on his current lifestyle, he chose 13 virtues to perfect. Using a small notebook as a tracker, he would work on one of the virtues each week, making a black mark if he failed to live the virtue that day. Every 13 weeks, he repeated the cycle, trying to have fewer marks. 

Franklin didn’t become perfect, as he discovered that he was "fuller of Faults than [he] had imagined.” But he reported he "had the Satisfaction of seeing them diminish." 

As people were converted to John the Baptist’s message of repentance and baptism, they asked him, “What shall we do then?” (Luke 3:10). His answer was personalized to the group who was asking the question: give to the poor, be honest in your dealings, don’t abuse or threaten and be content with what you have (Luke 3:11-14).

Have you ever asked God, “What shall I do then? What Christ-like quality should I be working on now? Where can I improve?” It requires humility to ask the question and even more to listen to the answer. It could confirm a weakness you’re already working on or reveal a startling blind spot. 

Once we know what to focus on, Benjamin Franklin demonstrated that improvement requires intention and a system for change. For those seeking to become like Him, Heavenly help strengthens intention and guides actions, making “weak things become strong” (Ether 12:27). 

Perfection in this life is unlikely, but as Franklin discovered and President Nelson confirms, “All of us can do better and be better than ever before.”  

Emotional Resilience Skill: Overcome weakness with intention, a systemic plan, and support–especially Heavenly aid.