During a Q&A with three BYU Pathways Worldwide students, Elder Edward Dube of the Presidency of the Seventy shared how education and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ changed his life. And he talked about having integrity and trusting the Lord.
Elder Dubé began the BYU Pathway Worldwide Devotion on Friday, June 5, saying that as he reflected on his life, he remembered Proverbs 4:7, “And by having all things comes understanding.”
He explained that he was born in rural Zimbabwe in southern Africa to farming parents and grew up in a colonial era marked by racial segregation, where education was rare. But his parents understood how transformative education could be and made it a top priority.
Elder Dubé said he found his home and a clear vision when he joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at age 22.
Elder Dubé explained that education is not just about academics, but about character, resilience, and trust in the Lord’s plan, and that placing Jesus Christ at the center of one’s life is the key to success in education.
have integrity
A BYU Pathway student named Alfred Tolokotsi of the Soweto South Africa Stake asked Elder Dube about challenges he had experienced in his education and how he had overcome them.
Elder Dubé responded that it is difficult to balance studies and work to support a family at a young age. “But I have learned from experience that with determination, integrity and belief, opportunities open up.”
At age 16, the elder Dube could have used his uncle’s last name to get a job at a Zimbabwean steel company that provided jobs to the children of its employees. Although this was a common practice, Elder Dube’s father strongly advised against it. This taught Elder Dubé honesty.
“Dear young friends, be who you are. Have integrity. This has served me well and has served me well throughout my life. I encourage you to stay focused, ask for help when you need it, and trust that the Lord will provide a way.”
trust in the lord
Latham Swartz, a BYU Pathway student in the Johannesburg South Africa South Stake, asked how education and faith in Jesus Christ combined have helped Elder Dube and his family.
Elder Dube responded in Doctrine and Covenants 130:18-19, “Whatever principles of intelligence we achieve in this life, they will be raised with us in the resurrection. And if a man acquires more knowledge and intelligence in this life than others through diligence and obedience, he will have great advantage in the world to come.”
This scripture motivated Elder Dubé to prioritize learning, and he said he and his family have been blessed by prioritizing faith and education. This also deepened my trust in Jesus Christ.
Luyanda Mavuma, a student in the Johannesburg South African YSA ward, asked Elder Dube how she has seen God’s help in obtaining employment.
“My advice is to seek guidance, be patient, and trust that the Lord is working behind the scenes. If we keep the commandments, the Lord will help us succeed and find ways to save and provide for us.”
When asked if he had any other advice for BYU Pathway students, Elder Dube said to seize the learning opportunity with both hands and make the most of this opportunity to learn and grow.
“Stay curious, stay humble, and stay focused on your goals. Seek knowledge, serve others, and trust in the Lord’s plan.”
