President Eyring is speaking to those who work with youth - as parents and/or youth leaders in the church. He also starts off with a good story from when he was a bishop and had a youth with a problem. He also counseled:
Heavenly Father wants and needs our help to bring His spirit children home to Him again. And he needs our help to get them back to the path quickly should they begin to wander.
We help God's children best by providing ways to build faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel when they are young. Then we must help rekindle that faith quickly before it dims as they wander off the path.
Heavenly Father has assigned us to a great variety of stations to strengthen and, when needed, to lead travelers to safety. Our most important and powerful assignments are in the family.
We all can help. Grandmothers, grandfathers, and every member who knows a child can help. It doesn't take a formal calling in Primary. Nor is it limited by age. As I read this section I had the impression that I need to pay attention to all of the children (and youth) at church and encourage them. I feel like I do that on a limited basis already. I just need to do more.
We encourage young people in the rising generation to see their own potential to build great spiritual strength. And we plead with those who care about those young people to rise to what the Lord requires of us to help them. I can do this in a limited extent at school too because everyone is a child of God.
Next, President Eyring spent a lot of time talking about the Personal Progress program and the new Duty to God program.
The Personal Progress booklet for young women makes the purpose clear for them."The Personal Progress program uses the eight Young Women values to help you understand more fully who you are, why you are here on the earth, and what you should be doing as a daughter of God to prepare for the day you go to the temple to make sacred covenants.
It goes on to say that young women will "make commitments, carry them out, and report your progress to a parent or leader." It also promises that "the patterns you establish as you work on Personal Progress - such as prayer, scripture study, service, and journal keeping - will become personal daily habits. These habits will strengthen your testimony and help you learn and improve throughout your life.
The Duty to God program . . . will be contained in one simple book for all three Aaronic Priesthood offices. It is a powerful tool. It will strengthen the testimonies of young men and their relationship with God. It will help them learn and want to fulfill their priesthood duties. It will strengthen their relationships with their parents, among quorum members, and with their leaders.
Both of these programs put great responsibility on the efforts of the young people themselves. These programs expect consistency, great effort, and the accumulation of learning and spiritual experiences over the years.
Personal Progress helps young women prepare to receive the ordinances of the temple.
Of all the help we can give these young people, the greatest will be to let them feel our confidence that they are on the path home to God and that they can make it. We do that best by going with them. These inspired programs . . . will lead the young person to invite and receive the companionship of the Holy Ghost.
Then, speaking again in general to those who serve the youth:
The best counsel for us to give young people is that they can arrive back to Heavenly Father only as they are guided and corrected by the Spirit of God.
We then, get our assignments to help the youth.
So if we are wise, we will encourage, praise, and exemplify everything which invites the companionship of the Holy Ghost. They will feel in our praise and our smiles the approval of God. And should we feel the need to give corrective counsel, they will feel our love and the love of God in it, not rebuke and rejection, which can permit Satan to lead them further away. (Great counsel for parents!)
The example they most need from us is to do what they must do. We need to pray for the gifts of the Spirit. We need to ponder in the scriptures and in the words of living prophets. We need to make plans which are not only wishes but covenants. And then we need to keep our promises to the Lord. And we need to lift others by sharing with them the blessings of the Atonement which have come in our lives.
And we need to exemplify in our own lives the steady and prolonged faithfulness that the Lord expects of them. As we do, we will help them feel from the Spirit an assurance that if they will persist, they will hear the words from a loving Savior and Heavenly Father: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant.
Showing posts with label Duty to God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Duty to God. Show all posts
David L. Beck: The Magnificent Aaronic Priesthood
I am very interested in Brother Beck's talk because of the new Duty to God program. He gives some good explanations, so I have included many of his remarks for future reference.
Tonight I will help you see how you can discover for yourselves the magnificence of the Aaronic Priesthood.
When God entrusts you with His sacred priesthood, He shows great confidence in you. He knows He can trust you to use the priesthood to serve others, just as He has trusted other young men to do some of His most important work.
Brother Beck set the stage to discuss the new Duty to God program with this quote from President Monson: "Great things are expected of you. 'Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.'
Brother Beck continues with both the reasons for the new program and the way it will work:
To help you respond to that urgent call, the Church is introducing a new Duty to God program. As a deacon, teacher, and priest, you will participate in activities that will help you build spiritual strength and learn and fulfill your priesthood duties. Each activity follows this simple pattern:
Brother Beck concluded with this counsel and testimony:
I testify that your faithful service in the Aaronic Priesthood will change the lives of those you serve. There are people who need your priesthood service. Your family needs you. Your quorum needs you. The Church needs you. The world needs you.
He related an experience from a trip to Portugal where he came across a monument to the early Portuguese explorers. I see you when I think of that monument of courageous explorers. I see you on a personal journey that few in the world today choose to pursue. I see you fulfilling your duty to God.
Tonight I will help you see how you can discover for yourselves the magnificence of the Aaronic Priesthood.
When God entrusts you with His sacred priesthood, He shows great confidence in you. He knows He can trust you to use the priesthood to serve others, just as He has trusted other young men to do some of His most important work.
Brother Beck set the stage to discuss the new Duty to God program with this quote from President Monson: "Great things are expected of you. 'Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.'
Brother Beck continues with both the reasons for the new program and the way it will work:
To help you respond to that urgent call, the Church is introducing a new Duty to God program. As a deacon, teacher, and priest, you will participate in activities that will help you build spiritual strength and learn and fulfill your priesthood duties. Each activity follows this simple pattern:
- First you learn about a gospel principle or a priesthood duty. You discover what Heavenly father wants you to do, and you strive to gain a spiritual witness about why it is important.
- Next you make plans to act on what you have learned. This is a wonderful chance to take responsibility for your own growth and develop spiritual self-reliance.
- Then you share what you learn and experience with others. You will increase you ability to talk about the gospel with others.
Brother Beck concluded with this counsel and testimony:
I testify that your faithful service in the Aaronic Priesthood will change the lives of those you serve. There are people who need your priesthood service. Your family needs you. Your quorum needs you. The Church needs you. The world needs you.
He related an experience from a trip to Portugal where he came across a monument to the early Portuguese explorers. I see you when I think of that monument of courageous explorers. I see you on a personal journey that few in the world today choose to pursue. I see you fulfilling your duty to God.
President Henry B. Eyring: Act in All Diligence
I speak to you tonight of diligence in the Lord's service. President Eyring opens with some observations on the new Duty to God booklet and how it will work. ". . . the pattern from the new Duty to God booklet. It is to learn what the Lord expects of you, make a plan to do it, act on your plan with diligence, and then share with others how your experience changed you and blessed others.
You have seen such examples of great priest hood servants. Tonight, I will try to tell youabout what I have learned about them. It begins with their learning to know whose service they are in and for what purpose. When that goes down into their hearts, it makes all the difference.
In talking to the Aaronic Priesthood holders about passing the Sacrament he said, "As you remember Him, you will be determined to perform that sacred service, as nearly as you can, as well and faithfully as He did.
Then President Eyring started speaking to the Melchizedek Priesthood: "Like the Aaronic Priesthood, the Melchizadeck Priesthood is more than a trust to do what the Lord due. It is an invitation to become as He is.
There is a pattern by which all priesthood holders are lifted to that glorious blessing. One place in scripture where the Lord gives the patter for us is in the 107th section of the Doctrine and Covenants:
President Eyring shared an experience he had visiting a faithful priesthood holder who was undergoing painful medical treatments that were not curing him. After visiting, they concluded with a priesthood blessing. The man was anointed with "oil consecrated by the power of the Melchizedek Priesthood." President Eyring then said, "As I sealed the blessing, I was taught by the Holy Ghost at least part of what the Lord had already done for this faithful priesthood holder. he was clean, his sins washed away. His nature had been changed to want what the Savior wanted. He had no fear of death. The desire of his heart was to live to give service to his family and to others of Heavenly Father's children who needed him.
The talk concluded with this counsel to priesthood holders (I put it in bullet form so that each bit of counsel stands out):
You have seen such examples of great priest hood servants. Tonight, I will try to tell youabout what I have learned about them. It begins with their learning to know whose service they are in and for what purpose. When that goes down into their hearts, it makes all the difference.
In talking to the Aaronic Priesthood holders about passing the Sacrament he said, "As you remember Him, you will be determined to perform that sacred service, as nearly as you can, as well and faithfully as He did.
Then President Eyring started speaking to the Melchizedek Priesthood: "Like the Aaronic Priesthood, the Melchizadeck Priesthood is more than a trust to do what the Lord due. It is an invitation to become as He is.
There is a pattern by which all priesthood holders are lifted to that glorious blessing. One place in scripture where the Lord gives the patter for us is in the 107th section of the Doctrine and Covenants:
- "Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.
- He that is slothful shall not be counted worth to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand. Even so. Amen (D&C 107: 99-100)
President Eyring shared an experience he had visiting a faithful priesthood holder who was undergoing painful medical treatments that were not curing him. After visiting, they concluded with a priesthood blessing. The man was anointed with "oil consecrated by the power of the Melchizedek Priesthood." President Eyring then said, "As I sealed the blessing, I was taught by the Holy Ghost at least part of what the Lord had already done for this faithful priesthood holder. he was clean, his sins washed away. His nature had been changed to want what the Savior wanted. He had no fear of death. The desire of his heart was to live to give service to his family and to others of Heavenly Father's children who needed him.
The talk concluded with this counsel to priesthood holders (I put it in bullet form so that each bit of counsel stands out):
- Ponder deeply and diligently in the scriptures and in the words of living prophets.
- Persist in prayer for the Holy Ghost to reveal to you the nature of God the Father and His Beloved Son.
- Plead that the Spirit will show you what the Lord wants you to do.
- Plan to do it.
- Promise Him to obey.
- Act with determination until you have done what He asked.
- And then pray to give thanks for the opportunity to serve and to know what you might do next.
Elder Robert D. Hales: Our Duty God - The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation
Elder Hales talk was about the importance of parents teaching and listening to their children. This is one of many talks during this conference about the duties of parents. Elder Hales gives many excellent ideas about how we can be successful in talking to our children.
Throughout my life as a father and grandfather, I have pondered the question, what is my duty to God in relation to the youth? May I share some of what I have learned by way of personal reflection and testimony. (This is a good example of a topic sentence/paragraph; Elder Hales lets us know very early, what the talk is about.
Our duty to God as parents and leaders begins with leading by example - consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home. This takes daily determination and diligence. For youth, there is no substitute for seeing the gospel lived in our daily lives.
We lead them by understanding their hearts and walking alongside them on the gospel path. To truly understand their hearts, we must do more than just be in the same room or attend the same family and Church activities. We must plan and take advantage of teaching moments that make a deep and lasting impression upon their minds and hearts.
I have learned that what makes a priesthood or Scout activity most meaningful to a boy is not just getting a merit badge but having the opportunity to sit and talk with a leader who is interested in him and his life.
Research shows that during the most important transitions in life - including those periods when youth are most likely to drift away from the Church - the greatest influence [comes] from the regular, warm, friendly, caring interaction with parents.
Where family meals are concerned, it's not the food but the family interaction that nourishes the soul.
[We have always eaten dinner as a family, but for many years, we would also read at the table during mealtime. Theresia finally suggested that we make a rule that "no reading" at the table while we are there eating. I was tough at first because I usually have plenty to say at the dinner table, especially about table manners. But it wasn't a positive experience. So I have had to work on 'better' conversational skills. I do feel better about our dinner time together.]
For our interactions with you to truly touch their hearts, we have to pay attention to them. Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen - yes, listen and listen some more - even hearken with spiritual ears!
Being there means understanding the hearts of our youth and connecting with them. And connecting with them means not just conversing with them, but doing things with them too.
Adult members of the Church should understand that Personal Progress and Duty to God requirements are not just lengthy lists of items to check off. They are personal goals set by each young man and young woman to help them become worthy to receive temple ordinances, serve missions, enter into eternal marriage, and enjoy exaltation. But let it be understood: for young men and young women to try to accomplish these goals alone would be a great loss and tragedy!
It is our imperative duty to help youth understand and believe the gospel in a deeply personal way. We can teach them to walk in the light, but that light cannot be borrowed. They must earn it for themselves. They must obtain their own light of testimony directly from the source of spiritual light-God Himself- through prayer and study and pondering. They must understand who they are and who Heavenly Father wants them to become.
Elder Hales then asks the question "How do we help them?" And he answers that question by outlining the things we can do to help our families.
When we have a family home evening, a family council, or a meaningful gospel conversation with our children, we have the opportunity to look into their eyes and tell them that we love them and that Heavenly Father loves them. In these sacred settings, we can also help them understand, deep in their hearts, who they are and how fortunate they are to have come to this earth and to our home and to participate in the covenants we have taken in the temple to be a family forever. In every interaction we share, we demonstrate the principles and blessings of the gospel.
Once again, there is a reference to the tough times we live in:
In these perilous times it is not enough for our youth to merely know. They must do. Wholehearted participation in ordinances, quorums and auxiliaries, inspired programs, and fortifying activities helps youth put on the whole armor of God. To truly choose the Lord's way they must know His way. And to truly know His way, we must teach and lead them to act, to participate, to do.
The greatest missionary work we will ever do will be in our homes. Our homes, quorums, and classes are part of the mission field. Our children and grandchildren are our most important investigators.
The greatest family history work that we will do will be within our own homes. It is the spiritual preparation of our children in the rising generation that will, through their obedience, ensure the eternal preservation and perpetuation of our families for the coming generations.
The greatest rescue, the greatest activation will be in our homes. There is no failure except in giving up. It is never too early or too late to begin. Do not worry about what has happened in the past.
The greatest faith we have will be within our homes as we remain strong in the trials and tribulations of parenthood. The prophet Joseph Smith said, "Therefore, . . . let us cheerfully do all things that like in our power; and then may we stand still,with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed." (D&C 123: 15,17)
The greatest love and the greatest teachings should be in our homes.
Throughout my life as a father and grandfather, I have pondered the question, what is my duty to God in relation to the youth? May I share some of what I have learned by way of personal reflection and testimony. (This is a good example of a topic sentence/paragraph; Elder Hales lets us know very early, what the talk is about.
Our duty to God as parents and leaders begins with leading by example - consistently and diligently living gospel principles at home. This takes daily determination and diligence. For youth, there is no substitute for seeing the gospel lived in our daily lives.
We lead them by understanding their hearts and walking alongside them on the gospel path. To truly understand their hearts, we must do more than just be in the same room or attend the same family and Church activities. We must plan and take advantage of teaching moments that make a deep and lasting impression upon their minds and hearts.
I have learned that what makes a priesthood or Scout activity most meaningful to a boy is not just getting a merit badge but having the opportunity to sit and talk with a leader who is interested in him and his life.
Research shows that during the most important transitions in life - including those periods when youth are most likely to drift away from the Church - the greatest influence [comes] from the regular, warm, friendly, caring interaction with parents.
Where family meals are concerned, it's not the food but the family interaction that nourishes the soul.
[We have always eaten dinner as a family, but for many years, we would also read at the table during mealtime. Theresia finally suggested that we make a rule that "no reading" at the table while we are there eating. I was tough at first because I usually have plenty to say at the dinner table, especially about table manners. But it wasn't a positive experience. So I have had to work on 'better' conversational skills. I do feel better about our dinner time together.]
For our interactions with you to truly touch their hearts, we have to pay attention to them. Most important is asking them questions, letting them talk, and then being willing to listen - yes, listen and listen some more - even hearken with spiritual ears!
Being there means understanding the hearts of our youth and connecting with them. And connecting with them means not just conversing with them, but doing things with them too.
Adult members of the Church should understand that Personal Progress and Duty to God requirements are not just lengthy lists of items to check off. They are personal goals set by each young man and young woman to help them become worthy to receive temple ordinances, serve missions, enter into eternal marriage, and enjoy exaltation. But let it be understood: for young men and young women to try to accomplish these goals alone would be a great loss and tragedy!
It is our imperative duty to help youth understand and believe the gospel in a deeply personal way. We can teach them to walk in the light, but that light cannot be borrowed. They must earn it for themselves. They must obtain their own light of testimony directly from the source of spiritual light-God Himself- through prayer and study and pondering. They must understand who they are and who Heavenly Father wants them to become.
Elder Hales then asks the question "How do we help them?" And he answers that question by outlining the things we can do to help our families.
When we have a family home evening, a family council, or a meaningful gospel conversation with our children, we have the opportunity to look into their eyes and tell them that we love them and that Heavenly Father loves them. In these sacred settings, we can also help them understand, deep in their hearts, who they are and how fortunate they are to have come to this earth and to our home and to participate in the covenants we have taken in the temple to be a family forever. In every interaction we share, we demonstrate the principles and blessings of the gospel.
Once again, there is a reference to the tough times we live in:
In these perilous times it is not enough for our youth to merely know. They must do. Wholehearted participation in ordinances, quorums and auxiliaries, inspired programs, and fortifying activities helps youth put on the whole armor of God. To truly choose the Lord's way they must know His way. And to truly know His way, we must teach and lead them to act, to participate, to do.
The greatest missionary work we will ever do will be in our homes. Our homes, quorums, and classes are part of the mission field. Our children and grandchildren are our most important investigators.
The greatest family history work that we will do will be within our own homes. It is the spiritual preparation of our children in the rising generation that will, through their obedience, ensure the eternal preservation and perpetuation of our families for the coming generations.
The greatest rescue, the greatest activation will be in our homes. There is no failure except in giving up. It is never too early or too late to begin. Do not worry about what has happened in the past.
The greatest faith we have will be within our homes as we remain strong in the trials and tribulations of parenthood. The prophet Joseph Smith said, "Therefore, . . . let us cheerfully do all things that like in our power; and then may we stand still,with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed." (D&C 123: 15,17)
The greatest love and the greatest teachings should be in our homes.
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