President Monson gave a wonderful 'Easter' talk and bore his testimony about the resurrection of the Savior, Jesus Christ. After talking about man's timeless question of what happens after death, President Monson taught about the Plan of Salvation, particularly the purpose of our earth life:
To understand the meaning of death, we must appreciate the purpose of life. The dim light of belief must yield to the noonday sun of revelation, by which we know that we lived before our birth into mortality. In our premortal state, we were doubtless among the sons and daughters of God who shouted for joy because of the opportunity to come to this challenging yet necessary mortal existence. We knew that our purpose was to gain a physical body; to overcome trials, and to prove that we would keep the commandments of God.
President Monson then talked about the earthly life of Christ and the final trials before his crucifixtion - then His resurrection. He then added his testimony:
Our Savior lived again. The most glorious, comforting, and reassuring of all events of human history had taken place - the victory over death. To all within the sound of my voice, I declare, If a man die, he shall live again. We know, for we have the light of revealed truth.
The darkness of death can always be dispelled by the light of revealed truth.
A wonderful testimony by the prophet.
Elder Russell M. Nelson: Generations Linked in Love
Elder Nelson's talk was about family history and temple work. He used his own family as examples, particularly his great-granddaughter "Dear Ruby", his granddaughter - "Dear Ruby's" mom, and his daughter - "Dear Ruby's" grandmother.
While the family is under attack throughout the world, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints proclaims, promotes, and protects the truth that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.
Without the Atonement, there would be no return to the presence of the Father and no continuation of the family beyond the grave.
In order for the Church's family history efforts to succeed, priesthood direction and leadership are essential. Leaders teach and testify of the doctrine undergirding this sacred work. They issue callings and see that instruction is available. They view temple and family history activity as a way to elevate the spirit of their ward, strengthen the spiritual roots of new converts, and bless the lives of all members.
Temple and family history work . . . has an equal power to bless the living. It has a refining influence on those who are engaged in it. They are literally helping to exalt their families.
While the family is under attack throughout the world, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints proclaims, promotes, and protects the truth that the family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.
Without the Atonement, there would be no return to the presence of the Father and no continuation of the family beyond the grave.
In order for the Church's family history efforts to succeed, priesthood direction and leadership are essential. Leaders teach and testify of the doctrine undergirding this sacred work. They issue callings and see that instruction is available. They view temple and family history activity as a way to elevate the spirit of their ward, strengthen the spiritual roots of new converts, and bless the lives of all members.
Temple and family history work . . . has an equal power to bless the living. It has a refining influence on those who are engaged in it. They are literally helping to exalt their families.
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.
Elder Bradley D. Foster: Mother Told Me
Early in his talk, Elder Foster told a story about rounding up his cattle in Idaho and herding them to trucks to be moved. Once again, a conference talk that points out distractions in the world.
Because it was so hot, the little calves kept running off into the trees to find shade. My thoughts turned to the youth of the Church who are sometimes distracted from the strait and narrow path. I also thought about those who have left the Church or who may feel that the Church has left their hearts while they were distracted. I thought to myself that a distraction doesn't have to be evil to be effective - sometimes it can just be shade.
In a world where every one is granted agency, some of our loved ones may stray for a season. But we can never give up. We must always go back for them - we must never stop trying.
We never know when a heart may be turned. We never know when a soul may be weary and worn out by the world.
Great things to remember for Home Teaching and Visiting Teaching.
Because it was so hot, the little calves kept running off into the trees to find shade. My thoughts turned to the youth of the Church who are sometimes distracted from the strait and narrow path. I also thought about those who have left the Church or who may feel that the Church has left their hearts while they were distracted. I thought to myself that a distraction doesn't have to be evil to be effective - sometimes it can just be shade.
In a world where every one is granted agency, some of our loved ones may stray for a season. But we can never give up. We must always go back for them - we must never stop trying.
We never know when a heart may be turned. We never know when a soul may be weary and worn out by the world.
Great things to remember for Home Teaching and Visiting Teaching.
Elder James B. Martino: All Things Work Together for Good
A very good talk on trials and tests.
Each of us will face trials and tests, . . . it is how we react to those difficulties that will determine our success and happiness. Each of us will face adversity no matter where we are. We are taught in the scriptures that there "must needs be . . . an opposition in all things." We will each face times of difficulty, and the question is not when we will face them but how we will face them.
Our Heavenly Father who loves us completely and perfectly, permits us to have experiences that will allow us to develop the traits and attributes we need to become more Christlike. Our trials come in many forms, but each will allow us to become more like the Savior as we learn to recognize the good that comes from each experience. As we understand this doctrine, we gain greater assurance of our Father's love. We may never know in this life why we face what we do, but we can feel confident that we can grow from the experience.
The challenge is to gain that eternal perspective while we are going through our tests. To some, our trials may not seem great, but to each of us who are passing through these experiences, the trials are real and require us to humble ourselves before God and learn from Him.
Elder Martino the talks about five things that we can learn from those last hours of the Savior's life on earth that can help us to face our own trials.
First, He sought not to do His will but only the will of His Father. I ask a question to you mothers: "Would you ever do something that would cause pain and bring tears to your children when they have done nothing wrong?" Of course you would! When mothers take young children to the doctor to receive immunizations, almost every child leaves the doctor's office in tears. Why do you do that? Because you know that a small amount of pain now will protect them from possible pain and suffering in the future. Our Father in Heaven knows the end from the beginning. We need to follow the example of the Savior and trust in Him.
Second, when we are faced with trials, we must learn to not complain or murmur. We must always attempt to correct the problem and overcome the trial, but instead of asking "Why me?" or "What did I do to deserve this?" maybe the question should be "What am I to do? What can I learn from this experience? What am I to change?" This is excellent advice and counsel.
Third, when we face our challenges, we must seek greater help from God. We must remember that often the answers from our Heavenly Father do not remove the trial from us, but instead He helps strengthen us as we pass through the experience. (Another excellent point.) In our trials, let us not become bitter or uncommitted, but let us follow the Savior's example of becoming more earnest, more sincere, and more faithful.
Fourth, learn to serve and think of others even in our times of trial. President Monson stated, "I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish - and in effect save their lives."
Fifth, forgive others and do not seek to pass the blame of our situation to them. There is a tendency for the natural man to pass blame to someone else so as not to be accountable for his or her actions.
As we pass through the trials of life, let us keep an eternal perspective, let us not complain, let us become ever more prayerful, let us serve others, and let us forgive one another. (Good summary)
Each of us will face trials and tests, . . . it is how we react to those difficulties that will determine our success and happiness. Each of us will face adversity no matter where we are. We are taught in the scriptures that there "must needs be . . . an opposition in all things." We will each face times of difficulty, and the question is not when we will face them but how we will face them.
Our Heavenly Father who loves us completely and perfectly, permits us to have experiences that will allow us to develop the traits and attributes we need to become more Christlike. Our trials come in many forms, but each will allow us to become more like the Savior as we learn to recognize the good that comes from each experience. As we understand this doctrine, we gain greater assurance of our Father's love. We may never know in this life why we face what we do, but we can feel confident that we can grow from the experience.
The challenge is to gain that eternal perspective while we are going through our tests. To some, our trials may not seem great, but to each of us who are passing through these experiences, the trials are real and require us to humble ourselves before God and learn from Him.
Elder Martino the talks about five things that we can learn from those last hours of the Savior's life on earth that can help us to face our own trials.
First, He sought not to do His will but only the will of His Father. I ask a question to you mothers: "Would you ever do something that would cause pain and bring tears to your children when they have done nothing wrong?" Of course you would! When mothers take young children to the doctor to receive immunizations, almost every child leaves the doctor's office in tears. Why do you do that? Because you know that a small amount of pain now will protect them from possible pain and suffering in the future. Our Father in Heaven knows the end from the beginning. We need to follow the example of the Savior and trust in Him.
Second, when we are faced with trials, we must learn to not complain or murmur. We must always attempt to correct the problem and overcome the trial, but instead of asking "Why me?" or "What did I do to deserve this?" maybe the question should be "What am I to do? What can I learn from this experience? What am I to change?" This is excellent advice and counsel.
Third, when we face our challenges, we must seek greater help from God. We must remember that often the answers from our Heavenly Father do not remove the trial from us, but instead He helps strengthen us as we pass through the experience. (Another excellent point.) In our trials, let us not become bitter or uncommitted, but let us follow the Savior's example of becoming more earnest, more sincere, and more faithful.
Fourth, learn to serve and think of others even in our times of trial. President Monson stated, "I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives. Those who live only for themselves eventually shrivel up and figuratively lose their lives, while those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish - and in effect save their lives."
Fifth, forgive others and do not seek to pass the blame of our situation to them. There is a tendency for the natural man to pass blame to someone else so as not to be accountable for his or her actions.
As we pass through the trials of life, let us keep an eternal perspective, let us not complain, let us become ever more prayerful, let us serve others, and let us forgive one another. (Good summary)
Elder Gregory A. Schwitzer: Developing Good Judgment and Not Judging Others
This talk was about how to judge righteously. Especially interesting to me was the observation that we are often to quick to judge Martha (in the New Testament) because we focus on just one story about her and not the second one.
We live in a world in which many situations require us to make judgments that are often difficult. Yet the Savior gave the commandment to "judge not" our fellowman. How can we do this and still exercise good judgment in a world full of deception and corruption?
Although the Savior asked us not to judge others, He still expects us to use excellent judgment. Maybe the difference between the two is that the first (the commandment to not judge others) is a verb and the second is a noun. Just a thought.
Speaking of judging Martha, Elder Schwitzer said, How often has Martha been misjudged as being a person who cared more for the deeds of doing than for the Spirit? However, her testimony in the trial of her brother's death clearly shows the depth of her understanding.
I offer four guides for developing such judgments in making important decisions.
First, put your own personal standards in alignment with the gospel of Jesus Christ. A person can never be a good judge without the gospel of Jesus Christ as a reference. For the youth the youth these standards are written in the pamphlet "For the Strength of Youth." Perhaps it would be good for us as adults to study and apply this pamphlet to our lives.
Second, listen to the messages of the living prophet. Each general conference and Church magazine contains advice from the prophets which, if applied, will lead us to good judgment. We are left without excuse when we ignore them.
Third, cultivate with the Holy Spirit a relationship of listening. A relationship of listening often requires a quiet environment in which we can take time to ponder and hear the still, small voice. This peaceful environment is both external and internal. Therefore, it is more than shutting off the music of the world or the blare of other media; it is also shutting off the noise of sin that is internal to our soul. This will open the communication with the Spirit, which is so badly needed.
Christ said: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14;27) The peace that comes from listening to the Holy Spirit removes the fear of making a poor judgment in life.
Fourth, keep the commandments. The willingness to keep God's commandments opens to us many promised blessings.
We live in a world in which many situations require us to make judgments that are often difficult. Yet the Savior gave the commandment to "judge not" our fellowman. How can we do this and still exercise good judgment in a world full of deception and corruption?
Although the Savior asked us not to judge others, He still expects us to use excellent judgment. Maybe the difference between the two is that the first (the commandment to not judge others) is a verb and the second is a noun. Just a thought.
Speaking of judging Martha, Elder Schwitzer said, How often has Martha been misjudged as being a person who cared more for the deeds of doing than for the Spirit? However, her testimony in the trial of her brother's death clearly shows the depth of her understanding.
I offer four guides for developing such judgments in making important decisions.
First, put your own personal standards in alignment with the gospel of Jesus Christ. A person can never be a good judge without the gospel of Jesus Christ as a reference. For the youth the youth these standards are written in the pamphlet "For the Strength of Youth." Perhaps it would be good for us as adults to study and apply this pamphlet to our lives.
Second, listen to the messages of the living prophet. Each general conference and Church magazine contains advice from the prophets which, if applied, will lead us to good judgment. We are left without excuse when we ignore them.
Third, cultivate with the Holy Spirit a relationship of listening. A relationship of listening often requires a quiet environment in which we can take time to ponder and hear the still, small voice. This peaceful environment is both external and internal. Therefore, it is more than shutting off the music of the world or the blare of other media; it is also shutting off the noise of sin that is internal to our soul. This will open the communication with the Spirit, which is so badly needed.
Christ said: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." (John 14;27) The peace that comes from listening to the Holy Spirit removes the fear of making a poor judgment in life.
Fourth, keep the commandments. The willingness to keep God's commandments opens to us many promised blessings.
Elder Francisco J. Vinas: Things Pertaining to Righteousness
As a member of the Caribbean Area Presidency, I was a personal witness to the faithful Saints who replaced fear with faith. Lessons learned in Haiti may be likened to Book of Mormon illustrations. Elder Vinas didn't spend much time talking about Haiti, but gave excellent counsel.
As parents and leaders we need to watch over our members and families, helping them to stay away from those things that could lead them to spiritual death.
Just as in the times of Alma, our leaders also watch over the members of the Church and nourish them with things pertaining to righteousness. [This seems to be a key; not to just avoid evil, but also to strengthen and nourish oneself with "things pertaining to righteousness."] Those things will help us to achieve an enduring conversion. In the document "Leadership Training Emphasis," revised December 10, 2009, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve ask that both priesthood and auxiliary leaders "encourage each family member, parents and children, to study the scriptures, pray regularly, and live the gospel of Jesus Christ."
In order to more effectively teach the things pertaining to righteousness, it is important to understand that, in addition to imparting information, we must facilitate revelation. This way, the person being taught can feel the desire to know these principles for himself or herself.
As parents and leaders we need to watch over our members and families, helping them to stay away from those things that could lead them to spiritual death.
Just as in the times of Alma, our leaders also watch over the members of the Church and nourish them with things pertaining to righteousness. [This seems to be a key; not to just avoid evil, but also to strengthen and nourish oneself with "things pertaining to righteousness."] Those things will help us to achieve an enduring conversion. In the document "Leadership Training Emphasis," revised December 10, 2009, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve ask that both priesthood and auxiliary leaders "encourage each family member, parents and children, to study the scriptures, pray regularly, and live the gospel of Jesus Christ."
In order to more effectively teach the things pertaining to righteousness, it is important to understand that, in addition to imparting information, we must facilitate revelation. This way, the person being taught can feel the desire to know these principles for himself or herself.
Elder Neil L. Andersen: Tell Me the Stories of Jesus
Elder Andersen started is talk with his testimony of General Conference. After having studied all of the talks in the conference I would agree and add my testimony to what he says here so eloquently:
When you are assigned to speak at the end of the final session of general conference, you listen to every word, wondering which parts of you talk will be given before your turn comes. There are no assigned subjects, no collaboration of themes. The Lord's way, or course, is always the best way. He takes the individual prayerful efforts of each speaker and orchestrates a spiritual symphony full of revelation and power. Repeated themes, principle building upon principle, prophetic warnings, uplifting promises - the divine harmony is a miracle! I testify that in this conference we have heard and felt the mind and will of the Lord.
The next part of Elder Andersen's talk was about preparing our children for the challenges ahead. This is one of many talks about families and especially, parents teaching their children.
We hold in our arms the rising generation. They come to this earth with important responsibilities and great spiritual capacities. We cannot be casual in how we prepare them. Our challenge as parents and teachers is not to create a spiritual core in their souls but rather to fan the flame of their spiritual core already aglow with the fire of their premortal faith.
The theme of Elder Andersen's talk is the Primary song "Tell Me the Stories of Jesus". He quoted part of the song: "Tell me the stories of Jesus I love to hear, things I would ask him to tell me if he were here." He then continued with some excellent teaching strategy based on formative assessment questions for both them and for us as their parents and teachers.
Are the life and teachings of Jesus Christ embedded in the minds and souls of our children? Do they think about the Savior's life when they wonder what to do in their own lives? This will be more and more important in the years ahead.
Have our children visualized the premortal council, where Jesus - the greatest of all - declared, "Here am I, send me"? Do they see their own willingness to serve as following His example?
Do they think about His humble birth, the Savior of the world lying in a manger? Do His circumstances help them better understand the proper place of material possessions?
Elder Anderson continues with more questions. Those struck me as a sort of checklist of questions that we as parents can ask ourselves about how we are doing with our children. The responses to those questions will give us a picture of how our children are doing. These are great formative assessment questions. I have put the questions I thought we especially interesting in bold font.
Do they know that Jesus often talk, "Ask, and ye shall receive"? Do His prayers of thankfulness and His pleadings to His Father flow through our children's minds as they kneel in prayer with their own concerns?
Have we told them of the love Jesus has for children, how He held them in His arms, prayed for them, and wept? Do our children know that Jesus stands ready "with open arms to receive [them]"?
Do they take strength in the stories of Jesus fasting - as we teach them the law of the fast?
In their own loneliness, do our children know the loneliness the Savior felt as His friends deserted Him and as He asked His apostles, "Will ye also go away?"
Have our children felt the power of the Savior's miracles? Jesus healed the leper, gave sight to the blind. He fed the 5,000, calmed the sea, and raised Lazarus from the dead. Do our children believe that "it is by faith that miracles are wrought," and do they pray for miracles in their own lives?
Have our children taken courage from the Savior's words to the ruler of the synagogue: "Be not afraid, only believe"?
Do our children know about His perfect life, His selfless ministry, His betrayal and cruel Crucifixion? Have we testified to them of the certainty of His Resurrection, of His visit to the Nephites in the Americas, of His appearance to the Prophet Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove?
Do they anticipate His majestic return, when all will be made right and every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ?
Do our children say, "Tell me the stories of Jesus, I love to hear"?
The next piece of counsel was for the youth as well as the children:
Live up to your important responsibilities and great spiritual capacities. Seek to know more about Jesus; open the scriptures. One idea would be to read again the book of John and then discuss it with your parents, teachers, and each other.
To those of us who are older, Elder Andersen said:
To fathers and mothers, to grandfathers and grandmothers, and to those without children of their own who lovingly nurture children and youth, my counsel is to speak more frequently about Jesus Christ. In His holy name is great spiritual power.
If a child is not listening, don't despair. Time and truth are on your side. At the right moment, your words will return as if from heaven itself. You testimony will never leave your children.
As your reverently speak about he Savior - in the car, on the bus, at the dinner table, as you kneel in prayer, during scripture study, or in late-night conversations - the Spirit of the Lord will accompany your words.
When you are assigned to speak at the end of the final session of general conference, you listen to every word, wondering which parts of you talk will be given before your turn comes. There are no assigned subjects, no collaboration of themes. The Lord's way, or course, is always the best way. He takes the individual prayerful efforts of each speaker and orchestrates a spiritual symphony full of revelation and power. Repeated themes, principle building upon principle, prophetic warnings, uplifting promises - the divine harmony is a miracle! I testify that in this conference we have heard and felt the mind and will of the Lord.
The next part of Elder Andersen's talk was about preparing our children for the challenges ahead. This is one of many talks about families and especially, parents teaching their children.
We hold in our arms the rising generation. They come to this earth with important responsibilities and great spiritual capacities. We cannot be casual in how we prepare them. Our challenge as parents and teachers is not to create a spiritual core in their souls but rather to fan the flame of their spiritual core already aglow with the fire of their premortal faith.
The theme of Elder Andersen's talk is the Primary song "Tell Me the Stories of Jesus". He quoted part of the song: "Tell me the stories of Jesus I love to hear, things I would ask him to tell me if he were here." He then continued with some excellent teaching strategy based on formative assessment questions for both them and for us as their parents and teachers.
Are the life and teachings of Jesus Christ embedded in the minds and souls of our children? Do they think about the Savior's life when they wonder what to do in their own lives? This will be more and more important in the years ahead.
Have our children visualized the premortal council, where Jesus - the greatest of all - declared, "Here am I, send me"? Do they see their own willingness to serve as following His example?
Do they think about His humble birth, the Savior of the world lying in a manger? Do His circumstances help them better understand the proper place of material possessions?
Elder Anderson continues with more questions. Those struck me as a sort of checklist of questions that we as parents can ask ourselves about how we are doing with our children. The responses to those questions will give us a picture of how our children are doing. These are great formative assessment questions. I have put the questions I thought we especially interesting in bold font.
Do they know that Jesus often talk, "Ask, and ye shall receive"? Do His prayers of thankfulness and His pleadings to His Father flow through our children's minds as they kneel in prayer with their own concerns?
Have we told them of the love Jesus has for children, how He held them in His arms, prayed for them, and wept? Do our children know that Jesus stands ready "with open arms to receive [them]"?
Do they take strength in the stories of Jesus fasting - as we teach them the law of the fast?
In their own loneliness, do our children know the loneliness the Savior felt as His friends deserted Him and as He asked His apostles, "Will ye also go away?"
Have our children felt the power of the Savior's miracles? Jesus healed the leper, gave sight to the blind. He fed the 5,000, calmed the sea, and raised Lazarus from the dead. Do our children believe that "it is by faith that miracles are wrought," and do they pray for miracles in their own lives?
Have our children taken courage from the Savior's words to the ruler of the synagogue: "Be not afraid, only believe"?
Do our children know about His perfect life, His selfless ministry, His betrayal and cruel Crucifixion? Have we testified to them of the certainty of His Resurrection, of His visit to the Nephites in the Americas, of His appearance to the Prophet Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove?
Do they anticipate His majestic return, when all will be made right and every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ?
Do our children say, "Tell me the stories of Jesus, I love to hear"?
The next piece of counsel was for the youth as well as the children:
Live up to your important responsibilities and great spiritual capacities. Seek to know more about Jesus; open the scriptures. One idea would be to read again the book of John and then discuss it with your parents, teachers, and each other.
To those of us who are older, Elder Andersen said:
To fathers and mothers, to grandfathers and grandmothers, and to those without children of their own who lovingly nurture children and youth, my counsel is to speak more frequently about Jesus Christ. In His holy name is great spiritual power.
If a child is not listening, don't despair. Time and truth are on your side. At the right moment, your words will return as if from heaven itself. You testimony will never leave your children.
As your reverently speak about he Savior - in the car, on the bus, at the dinner table, as you kneel in prayer, during scripture study, or in late-night conversations - the Spirit of the Lord will accompany your words.
President Thomas S. Monson: Welcome to Conference
How grateful I am for the age in which we live—an age of such advanced technology that we are able to address you across the world. As the General Authorities and auxiliary leaders stand here in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, our voices will be reaching you by various means, including radio, television, satellite transmission, and the Internet. Although we will be speaking to you in English, you will be hearing us in some 92 languages.
President Monson starts off on a positive note with the blessings of technology - which is a blessing when it is used appropriately. I was also impressed that the conference sessions were also being translated into over 90 languages.
President Monson starts off on a positive note with the blessings of technology - which is a blessing when it is used appropriately. I was also impressed that the conference sessions were also being translated into over 90 languages.
Since last we met in April of this year, we have dedicated the beautiful Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple in South Jordan, Utah. We continue to build temples. We desire that as many members as possible have an opportunity to attend the temple without having to travel inordinate distances. Worldwide, 83 percent of our members live within 200 miles (320 km) of a temple. That percentage will continue to increase as we construct new temples around the world. Currently there are 130 temples in operation, with 16 announced or under construction. This morning I am pleased to announce 5 additional temples for which sites are being acquired and which, in coming months and years, will be built in the following locations: Brigham City, Utah; Concepción, Chile; Fortaleza, Brazil; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Sapporo, Japan.
Equally impressive is the growing number of temples and how close most members are to a temple. Before the Portland temple was constructed, we would have still been in that 200 mile radius of a temple. We are very blessed to have one just ten miles from our home. And now, new temples in the United States, Chile, Brazil, and Japan. The second in Florida! and another in Utah. We will be able to see the Brigham City Temple soon after passing through Tremonton on our way down the Wasatch Front. Soon our trips to Utah will involve passing temples in Boise, Twin Falls, Brigham City, Ogden, Bountiful, Salt Lake, Jordan River, Oquirrh Mountain, American Fork, and Provo. Eleven total if you count Portland. That's amazing!
I would ask that your faith and prayers continue to be offered in behalf of those areas where our influence is limited and where we are not allowed to share the gospel freely at this time. Miracles can occur as we do so.
This is similar to the request President Monson made one year ago, and similar to the one made by President Kimball - to pray for doors to be open around the world.
He concludes with this fitting introduction to the conference and a reminder to pay attention to the counsel that the Lord has for us at this conference.
Now, my brothers and sisters, we are anxious to listen to the messages which will be presented to us during the next two days. Those who will address us have sought heaven’s help and direction as they have prepared their messages. They have been impressed concerning that which they will share with us. That we may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord as we listen and learn is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Elder Richard G. Scott: To Acquire Spiritual Guidance
This was one of the best talks of the entire conference.
Elder Scott starts by asking three questions that outline what he will be talking about:
What can you do to enhance you capacity to be led to correct decisions in your life? What are the principles upon which spiritual communication depends? What are the potential barriers to such communication that you need to avoid?
He quoted President John Taylor being told by the prophet Joseph Smith, "never to arise in the morning without bowing before the Lord, and dedicating myself to him during the day."
The Holy Ghost, he explains, is "a power, beyond your own capability, that a loving Heavenly Father wants you to use consistently for your peace and happiness." Elder Scott then adds this important counsel:
I am convinced that there is no simple formula or technique that would immediately allow you to master the ability to be guided by the voice of the Spirit. Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit.
Then he delivered this promise powerful promise:
I witness that as you gain experience and success in being guided by the Spirit, your confidence in the impressions you feel can become more certain than your dependence on what you see or hear.
He then said:
Spirituality yields two fruits. The first is inspiration to know what to do. The second is power, or the capacity to do it.
Elder Scott then related two very powerful experiences he had. The first occurred at a priesthood meeting in Mexico City where a humble Mexican priesthood leader taught a lesson that was especially noteworthy for the love that the leader showed for the Savior and for those the leader taught. This was contrasted with a Sunday School lesson in Elder Scott's home ward where the teacher seemed to be "using the teaching opportunity to impress the class with his vast store of knowledge" by choosing "obscure references and unusual examples to illustrate the principles of the lesson"
It was "in the environment" of the second lesson that Elder Scott illustrated another point. He talked about distinct impressions he received and specific counsel. After the class he found a quiet place to record his impressions. He then pondered them to see if he accurately recorded them. He made some changes, then studied them. Then he prayed about what he had been taught by the Spirit. He gave thanks. Then he was impressed to ask, "Was there yet more to be given?" He said he received more impressions, so he followed the same process, at the end asking again, "Is there more I should know?" There was and he received another sacred experience that he recorded and would not have received if he did not ask if there was more.
Elder Scott then gives a caution and another promise:
However, the Lord will not force you to learn. You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you. As you make this a practice in your life, you will be more perceptive to the feelings that come with spiritual guidance. Then, when that guidance comes, sometimes when you least expect it, you will recognize it more easily.
The second half of Elder Scott's talk is about things that block the Spirit. He talks about sin in general and pornography in specific.
I share a warning. Satan is extremely good at blocking spiritual communication by inducing individuals, through temptation, to violate the laws upon which spiritual communication is founded. With some, he is able to convince them that they are not able to receive such guidance from the Lord.
Note: That is one of the most damaging things about sin -- causing one to "violate the laws upon which spiritual communication is founded."
Elder Scott addresses the excuse that pornography "does no harm to anyone else." He says:
Participation in pornography in any of its lurid forms is a manifestation of unbridled selfishness. How can a man, particularly a priesthood bearer, not think of the emotional and spiritual damage caused to women, especially his wife, by such abhorrent activity?
Elder Scott then gives this excellent counsel as a standard that would be good to emulate:
An individual with foundation standards and an enduring commitment to obey them is not easily led astray. Someone who is increasingly repulsed by grievous sin and who exercises self-restraint outside human influence has character.
Finally, he counsels patience in developing our ability to be led by the Spirit. The keys, he says, are
By careful practice, through the application of correct principles, and by being sensitive to the feelings that come, you will gain spiritual guidance.
This was a great talk. It would be wise to re-read this talk every month or so to check and see how you are doing in your ability to 1) be sensitive to the Spirit, and 2) resist the temptations of Satan.
Elder Scott starts by asking three questions that outline what he will be talking about:
What can you do to enhance you capacity to be led to correct decisions in your life? What are the principles upon which spiritual communication depends? What are the potential barriers to such communication that you need to avoid?
He quoted President John Taylor being told by the prophet Joseph Smith, "never to arise in the morning without bowing before the Lord, and dedicating myself to him during the day."
The Holy Ghost, he explains, is "a power, beyond your own capability, that a loving Heavenly Father wants you to use consistently for your peace and happiness." Elder Scott then adds this important counsel:
I am convinced that there is no simple formula or technique that would immediately allow you to master the ability to be guided by the voice of the Spirit. Our Father expects you to learn how to obtain that divine help by exercising faith in Him and His Son, Jesus Christ. Were you to receive inspired guidance just for the asking, you would become weak and ever more dependent on Them. They know that essential personal growth will come as you struggle to learn how to be led by the Spirit.
Then he delivered this promise powerful promise:
I witness that as you gain experience and success in being guided by the Spirit, your confidence in the impressions you feel can become more certain than your dependence on what you see or hear.
He then said:
Spirituality yields two fruits. The first is inspiration to know what to do. The second is power, or the capacity to do it.
Elder Scott then related two very powerful experiences he had. The first occurred at a priesthood meeting in Mexico City where a humble Mexican priesthood leader taught a lesson that was especially noteworthy for the love that the leader showed for the Savior and for those the leader taught. This was contrasted with a Sunday School lesson in Elder Scott's home ward where the teacher seemed to be "using the teaching opportunity to impress the class with his vast store of knowledge" by choosing "obscure references and unusual examples to illustrate the principles of the lesson"
It was "in the environment" of the second lesson that Elder Scott illustrated another point. He talked about distinct impressions he received and specific counsel. After the class he found a quiet place to record his impressions. He then pondered them to see if he accurately recorded them. He made some changes, then studied them. Then he prayed about what he had been taught by the Spirit. He gave thanks. Then he was impressed to ask, "Was there yet more to be given?" He said he received more impressions, so he followed the same process, at the end asking again, "Is there more I should know?" There was and he received another sacred experience that he recorded and would not have received if he did not ask if there was more.
Elder Scott then gives a caution and another promise:
However, the Lord will not force you to learn. You must exercise your agency to authorize the Spirit to teach you. As you make this a practice in your life, you will be more perceptive to the feelings that come with spiritual guidance. Then, when that guidance comes, sometimes when you least expect it, you will recognize it more easily.
The second half of Elder Scott's talk is about things that block the Spirit. He talks about sin in general and pornography in specific.
I share a warning. Satan is extremely good at blocking spiritual communication by inducing individuals, through temptation, to violate the laws upon which spiritual communication is founded. With some, he is able to convince them that they are not able to receive such guidance from the Lord.
Note: That is one of the most damaging things about sin -- causing one to "violate the laws upon which spiritual communication is founded."
Elder Scott addresses the excuse that pornography "does no harm to anyone else." He says:
Participation in pornography in any of its lurid forms is a manifestation of unbridled selfishness. How can a man, particularly a priesthood bearer, not think of the emotional and spiritual damage caused to women, especially his wife, by such abhorrent activity?
Elder Scott then gives this excellent counsel as a standard that would be good to emulate:
An individual with foundation standards and an enduring commitment to obey them is not easily led astray. Someone who is increasingly repulsed by grievous sin and who exercises self-restraint outside human influence has character.
Finally, he counsels patience in developing our ability to be led by the Spirit. The keys, he says, are
By careful practice, through the application of correct principles, and by being sensitive to the feelings that come, you will gain spiritual guidance.
This was a great talk. It would be wise to re-read this talk every month or so to check and see how you are doing in your ability to 1) be sensitive to the Spirit, and 2) resist the temptations of Satan.
Sister Vicki F. Matsumori: Helping Others Recognize the Whispering of the Spirt.
Sister Matsumori counsels:
There are places where it is easier to feel the Spirit. Testimony meetings and general conference are some of those places. Certainly temples are another. The challenge for each of us is in providing an environment where the Spirit can be felt daily in our homes and weekly at church.
One reason we are encouraged to pray and read the scriptures every single day is that both of these activities invite the Spirit into our homes and into the lives of our family members.
This is one of the reasons we have tried to be more diligent about having family scripture study every morning (at 6:25 am!) and family prayer at night -- to invite the Spirit into our home. Also, if you it seems like you haven't felt the Spirit for a while, check to make sure you are doing these basic things.
She also said:
Because the Spirit is often described as a still, small voice, it is also important to have a time of quiet in our lives as well. The Lord has counseled us to "be still, and know that I am God." If we provide a still and quiet time each day when we are not bombarded by television, computer, video games, or personal electronic devices, we allow that still, small voice an opportunity to provide personal revelation and to whisper sweet guidance, reassurance, and comfort to us.
These are great promises. I think that one of the keys is that we need to seek and find time in our day. It will not find us! There are just too many things going on. We need to make time for the Spirit to comfort us and to play a role in our lives.
Finally, some wonderful promises related to listening for and understanding the Spirit:
When we come to understand the whisperings of the Spirit, we will be able to hear Him teach us "the peaceable things of the kingdom" and "all things what [we] should do." We will recognize answers to our prayers and know how to live the gospel more fully each day. We will be guided and protected. And we can cultivate this gift in our lives as we follow those spiritual promptings. Most importantly, we will feel Him witness to us of the Father and of the Son.
There are places where it is easier to feel the Spirit. Testimony meetings and general conference are some of those places. Certainly temples are another. The challenge for each of us is in providing an environment where the Spirit can be felt daily in our homes and weekly at church.
One reason we are encouraged to pray and read the scriptures every single day is that both of these activities invite the Spirit into our homes and into the lives of our family members.
This is one of the reasons we have tried to be more diligent about having family scripture study every morning (at 6:25 am!) and family prayer at night -- to invite the Spirit into our home. Also, if you it seems like you haven't felt the Spirit for a while, check to make sure you are doing these basic things.
She also said:
Because the Spirit is often described as a still, small voice, it is also important to have a time of quiet in our lives as well. The Lord has counseled us to "be still, and know that I am God." If we provide a still and quiet time each day when we are not bombarded by television, computer, video games, or personal electronic devices, we allow that still, small voice an opportunity to provide personal revelation and to whisper sweet guidance, reassurance, and comfort to us.
These are great promises. I think that one of the keys is that we need to seek and find time in our day. It will not find us! There are just too many things going on. We need to make time for the Spirit to comfort us and to play a role in our lives.
Finally, some wonderful promises related to listening for and understanding the Spirit:
When we come to understand the whisperings of the Spirit, we will be able to hear Him teach us "the peaceable things of the kingdom" and "all things what [we] should do." We will recognize answers to our prayers and know how to live the gospel more fully each day. We will be guided and protected. And we can cultivate this gift in our lives as we follow those spiritual promptings. Most importantly, we will feel Him witness to us of the Father and of the Son.
Elder L. Whitney Clayton: That Your Burdens May Be Light
Elder Clayton starts off with a story of a man in Peru carrying a large burlap bag of firewood on his back - the bag was bigger than he was. It was his burden.
Elder Clayton talked about burdens coming from three sources:
Our unique individual experiences can help us prepare to return to Him. The adversity and afflictions that are ours, however difficult to bear, last, from heaven's perspective, for "but a mall moment; and then, if [we] endure it well, God shall exalt [us] on high." We must do everything we can to bear our burdens "well" for however long our "small moment" carrying them lasts.
Burdens provide opportunities to practice virtues that contribute to eventual perfection. They invite us to yield "to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and [put] off the natural man and [become] a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and [become] as a child . . . "
Thus burdens become blessings, though often such blessings are well disguised and may require time, effort, and faith to accept and understand.
Elder Clayton gave four examples of burdens becoming blessings.
Keeping our baptismal covenants helps relieve our own burdens as well as those burdened souls we serve. Those who offer such assistance to others stand on holy ground. [Remember] "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Elder Clayton reminds us that our burdens may be lifted through repentance: When we repent and keep the commandments, forgiveness and relief from our burdened conscience come with the help that only the Savior offers, for "surely, whosoever repenteth shall find mercy."
Elder Clayton talked about burdens coming from three sources:
- A natural product of the conditions of the world we live in. Things like illness, physical disability, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. These are not fault of our own. We can prepare for them, but and we will all confront them at one time or another
- Another source is from the misconduct of others. These could include abuse, addictions, sin, incorrect traditions, repression, crime, gossip, and unkindness.
- The third type of burdens are those made by our own mistakes and shortcomings.
Our unique individual experiences can help us prepare to return to Him. The adversity and afflictions that are ours, however difficult to bear, last, from heaven's perspective, for "but a mall moment; and then, if [we] endure it well, God shall exalt [us] on high." We must do everything we can to bear our burdens "well" for however long our "small moment" carrying them lasts.
Burdens provide opportunities to practice virtues that contribute to eventual perfection. They invite us to yield "to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and [put] off the natural man and [become] a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and [become] as a child . . . "
Thus burdens become blessings, though often such blessings are well disguised and may require time, effort, and faith to accept and understand.
Elder Clayton gave four examples of burdens becoming blessings.
- Adam: Work is a continual burden, but it is also a continual blessing "for [our] sake." for it teaches lessons we can learn only "by the sweat of [our] face."
- Alma: Our economic challenges may help prepare us to hear the word of the Lord. (Or to set proper priorities.)
- The Nephites and Lamanites during the time of the Gadianton Robbers: Political unrest, social disorder . . . may humble us and motivate us to see heavenly shelter from societal storms.
- Joseph Smith: The suffering we experience through the offenses of others is a valuable, though painful, school for improving our own behavior.
Keeping our baptismal covenants helps relieve our own burdens as well as those burdened souls we serve. Those who offer such assistance to others stand on holy ground. [Remember] "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Elder Clayton reminds us that our burdens may be lifted through repentance: When we repent and keep the commandments, forgiveness and relief from our burdened conscience come with the help that only the Savior offers, for "surely, whosoever repenteth shall find mercy."
Brother Russell T. Osguthorpe: Teaching Helps Save Lives
When missionaries and teachers draw upon the Spirit, they teach the appropriate principle, invite their learners to live that principle, and bear witness of the promised blessings that will follow. Elder David A Bednar shared these three simple elements of effective teaching in a recent training meeting: (1) key doctrine, (2) invitation to action, and (3) promised blessings.
This is great instruction for teaching any church class at any age-level. It will also work for any church talk. Make sure that these three components are at the core of your lesson or talk:
This is great instruction for teaching any church class at any age-level. It will also work for any church talk. Make sure that these three components are at the core of your lesson or talk:
- teach the appropriate gospel principle in your lesson.
- invite your students to live that principle.
- bear witness of the promised blessings they will receive for following that principle.
The guide Preach My Gospel helps missionaries teach key doctrine, invite those they teach to take action, and receive promised blessings. The guide Teaching, No Greater Call helps parents and teachers do the same. It is to gospel teaching what Preach My Gospel is to missionary work.
This is a very profound statement. It really raises the importance of Teaching, No Greater Call. If it is that important (and I agree that it is), then I think that we should make it the focus of our family scripture study after we finish Preach My Gospel.
As President Monson has taught: "The goal of gospel teaching . . . is not to 'pour information' into the minds of class members . . . The aim is to inspire the individual to think about, feel about, and then do something about living gospel principles."
Again, this counsel can be applied to teaching a class or giving a talk.
Elder Osguthorpe related a story from his young adult years where a teacher impressed him to . . . "think about, feel about, and then do something about living gospel principles." Then he added, "His teaching helped save my life."
Questions we should ask about our own teaching:
- As a teacher, do I view myself as a messenger from God?
- Do I prepare and then teach in ways that can help save lives?
- Do I focus on a key doctrine of the Restoration?
- Can those I teach feel the love I have for them and for my Heavenly Father and the Savior?
- When inspiration comes, do I close the manual and open their eyes and their ears and their hearts to the glory of God?
- Do I invite them to do the work that God has for them to do?
- Do I express so much confidence in them that they find the invitation hard to refuse?
- Do I help them recognize promised blessings that come from living the doctrine I am teaching?
Elder David A. Bednar: More Diligent and Concerned at Home
I want to suggest three ways each of us can become more diligent and concerned in our homes.
Elder Bednar has my attention here. An apostle is going to give advice on what we can do to have successful homes.
Suggestion Number One: Express Love-and Show it.
We can begin to become more diligent and concerned at home by telling the people we love that we love them.
As disciples of the Savior, we are not merely striving to know more; rather, we need to consistently do more of what we know is right and become better.
It is not enough to know, we must also do. This is a very important principle that translates our knowledge and faith into action.
We need to both express and demonstrate love.
Elder Bednar then quotes President Monson. This is such important counsel that I am including it to:
"Often we assume that [the people around us] must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know . . . We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us."
From the scriptures: The relationship between love and appropriate action . . . "If ye love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)
Feeling the security and constancy of love from a spouse, a parent, or a child is a rich blessing. Such love nurtures and sustains faith in God. Such love is a source of strength and casts out fear. Such love is the desire of every human soul.
We should frequently review our relationships with those closest to us to make sure that we are showing love and that the love is having the above mentioned effects.
Suggestion Number Two: Bear Testimony-and Live it.
We also can become more diligent and concerned at home by bearing testimony to those whom we love about the things we know to be true by witness of the Holy Ghost.
We should remember that bearing a heartfelt testimony is only a beginning. We need to bear testimony, we need to mean it, and most importantly we need to consistently live it. We need to both declare and live our testimonies.
So, bearing testimony should be more than a missionary teaching technique or a Fast and Testimony Meeting event. We need to share our testimony with our family members and then live it, because they are closest to us and are always watching.
Suggestion Number Three: Be Consistent
Elder Bednar related some experiences from his family about Family Home Evening. I really enjoyed that. It showed me that even future apostles (and their families) had trials and that things like FHE did not always go smoothly. I could really relate to his examples and it gave me hope!
The consistency of our intent and work was perhaps the greatest lesson-a lesson we did not fully appreciate at the time.
Each family prayer, each episode of family scripture study, and each family home evening is a brushstroke on the canvas of our souls. No one event may appear to be very impressive or memorable. But just as the yellow and gold and brown strokes of paint complement each other and produce an impressive masterpiece, so our consistency in doing seemingly small things can lead to significant spiritual results.
Consistency is a key principle as we lay the foundation of a great work in our individual lives and as we become more diligent and concerned in our homes.
We were creating family goals tonight (Jan 4th) in Family Home Evening. Many of our goals were these small "brushstrokes": weekly FHE, family prayer night and day, family scripture study on the weekdays, a family game night once a month, Mom & Dad going to the temple twice a month. We set those goals (and others) because we believe, and know from past experience, that they do help create (as much, or more, than anything else) a strong home.
Elder Bednar has my attention here. An apostle is going to give advice on what we can do to have successful homes.
Suggestion Number One: Express Love-and Show it.
We can begin to become more diligent and concerned at home by telling the people we love that we love them.
As disciples of the Savior, we are not merely striving to know more; rather, we need to consistently do more of what we know is right and become better.
It is not enough to know, we must also do. This is a very important principle that translates our knowledge and faith into action.
We need to both express and demonstrate love.
Elder Bednar then quotes President Monson. This is such important counsel that I am including it to:
"Often we assume that [the people around us] must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know . . . We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us."
From the scriptures: The relationship between love and appropriate action . . . "If ye love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15)
Feeling the security and constancy of love from a spouse, a parent, or a child is a rich blessing. Such love nurtures and sustains faith in God. Such love is a source of strength and casts out fear. Such love is the desire of every human soul.
We should frequently review our relationships with those closest to us to make sure that we are showing love and that the love is having the above mentioned effects.
Suggestion Number Two: Bear Testimony-and Live it.
We also can become more diligent and concerned at home by bearing testimony to those whom we love about the things we know to be true by witness of the Holy Ghost.
We should remember that bearing a heartfelt testimony is only a beginning. We need to bear testimony, we need to mean it, and most importantly we need to consistently live it. We need to both declare and live our testimonies.
So, bearing testimony should be more than a missionary teaching technique or a Fast and Testimony Meeting event. We need to share our testimony with our family members and then live it, because they are closest to us and are always watching.
Suggestion Number Three: Be Consistent
Elder Bednar related some experiences from his family about Family Home Evening. I really enjoyed that. It showed me that even future apostles (and their families) had trials and that things like FHE did not always go smoothly. I could really relate to his examples and it gave me hope!
The consistency of our intent and work was perhaps the greatest lesson-a lesson we did not fully appreciate at the time.
Each family prayer, each episode of family scripture study, and each family home evening is a brushstroke on the canvas of our souls. No one event may appear to be very impressive or memorable. But just as the yellow and gold and brown strokes of paint complement each other and produce an impressive masterpiece, so our consistency in doing seemingly small things can lead to significant spiritual results.
Consistency is a key principle as we lay the foundation of a great work in our individual lives and as we become more diligent and concerned in our homes.
We were creating family goals tonight (Jan 4th) in Family Home Evening. Many of our goals were these small "brushstrokes": weekly FHE, family prayer night and day, family scripture study on the weekdays, a family game night once a month, Mom & Dad going to the temple twice a month. We set those goals (and others) because we believe, and know from past experience, that they do help create (as much, or more, than anything else) a strong home.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: The Love of God
This is a great talk. I don't know how many comments I will have. I mostly just have one big question at the beginning: How do I develop love for God and others in my life. By the time I get to the end of the highlights from the talk, I hope to have some guidance.
How Do We Become True Disciples of Jesus Christ? "If you love me, keep my commandments."
But this may present a problem for some because there are so many "shoulds" and "should nots" that merely keeping track of them can be a challenge. Sometimes, well-meaning amplifications of divine principles-many coming from uninspired sources-complicate matters further diluting the purity of divine truth with man-made addenda. One person's good idea-something that may work for him or her-takes root and becomes an expectation. And gradually, eternal principles can get lost within the labyrinth of "good ideas."
I really like that part. "Well-meaning amplifications of divine principles." What an interesting way to put it. "One person's good idea . . . becomes an expectation." We need to guard against that. Continuing
This was one of the Savior's criticisms of the religious "experts" of His day, whom He chastised for attending to the hundreds of minor details of the law while neglecting the weightier matters.
So how do we stay aligned with these weightier matters? Is there a constant compass that can help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions?
Once again the Savior revealed the way. When asked to name the greatest commandment, He did not hesitate. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." He said, "This is the first and great commandment." Coupled with the second great commandment-to love our neighbor as ourselves-we have a compass that provides direction not only for our lives but also for the Lord's Church on both sides of the veil.
So there is a "constant compass" to help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions. That is the two great commandments.
When we truly understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us, the confusion clears and our priorities align. Our was as disciples of Christ becomes more joyful. Our lives take on new meaning. Our relationship with our Heavenly Father becomes more profound. Obedience becomes a joy rather than a burden.
I feel like I still have a long ways to go before I "understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us" but the promises are worth the trouble and trial of learning. I like that last sentence. It would make a good measuring stick for how well I am loving as Jesus loves: when "obedience becomes a joy rather than a burden."
God does not need us to love Him. But oh, how we need to love God!
For what we love determines what we seek.
What we seek determines what we think and do.
What we think and do determines who we are-and who we will become.
Love is the defining characteristic of a disciple of Christ.
At the heart of misery from the days of Adam until today, you will find the love of wrong things. And at the heart of joy, you will find the love of good things.
Regardless of our current state, there is hope for us. No matter our distress, no matter our sorrow, no matter our mistakes, our infinitely compassionate Heavenly Father desires that we draw near to Him so that He can draw near to us.
Since "God is love," the closer we approach Him, the more profoundly we experience love.
We increase our love for our Heavenly Father and demonstrate that love by aligning our thoughts and actions with God's word. His pure love directs and encourages us to become more pure and holy. It inspires us to walk in righteousness-not out of fear or obligation but out of an earnest desire to become even more like Him because we love Him.
Here are some of the solid answers I am looking for: increase and demonstrate our love by aligning our thoughts and actions with God's word. I like the result, doing what's right not out of fear or obligation but out of a desire to be more like Him. That is another good gauge of how I can be doing.
My dear brothers and sisters, don't get discouraged if you stumble at times. Don't feel downcast or despair if you don't feel worthy to be a disciple of Christ at all times. The first step to walking in righteousness is simply to try. We must try to believe. Try to learn of God: read the scriptures; study the words of His latter-day prophets; choose to listen to the Father, and do the things He asks of us. Try and keep on trying until that which seems difficult becomes possible-and that which becomes possible-and that which seems only possible becomes habit and a real part of you.
Great counsel for getting started and persevering during trials to finally make love a habit and part of me.
If you listen for the voice of the Father, He will lead you on a course that will allow you to experience the pure love of Christ.
If we do not neglect the great laws-if we truly learn to love our Heavenly Father and our fellowman with all our heart, soul, and mind-all else will fall into place.
Love is the guiding light that illuminates the disciples path and fills our daily walk with life, meaning, and wonder.
Let us be known as a people who love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and who love our neighbor as ourselves. When we understand and practice these two great commandments in our families, in our wards and branches, in our nations, and in our daily lives, we will begin to understand what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus the Christ.
I do have a better idea of the answer to my original question. No it is time to get to work!
How Do We Become True Disciples of Jesus Christ? "If you love me, keep my commandments."
But this may present a problem for some because there are so many "shoulds" and "should nots" that merely keeping track of them can be a challenge. Sometimes, well-meaning amplifications of divine principles-many coming from uninspired sources-complicate matters further diluting the purity of divine truth with man-made addenda. One person's good idea-something that may work for him or her-takes root and becomes an expectation. And gradually, eternal principles can get lost within the labyrinth of "good ideas."
I really like that part. "Well-meaning amplifications of divine principles." What an interesting way to put it. "One person's good idea . . . becomes an expectation." We need to guard against that. Continuing
This was one of the Savior's criticisms of the religious "experts" of His day, whom He chastised for attending to the hundreds of minor details of the law while neglecting the weightier matters.
So how do we stay aligned with these weightier matters? Is there a constant compass that can help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions?
Once again the Savior revealed the way. When asked to name the greatest commandment, He did not hesitate. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." He said, "This is the first and great commandment." Coupled with the second great commandment-to love our neighbor as ourselves-we have a compass that provides direction not only for our lives but also for the Lord's Church on both sides of the veil.
So there is a "constant compass" to help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions. That is the two great commandments.
When we truly understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us, the confusion clears and our priorities align. Our was as disciples of Christ becomes more joyful. Our lives take on new meaning. Our relationship with our Heavenly Father becomes more profound. Obedience becomes a joy rather than a burden.
I feel like I still have a long ways to go before I "understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us" but the promises are worth the trouble and trial of learning. I like that last sentence. It would make a good measuring stick for how well I am loving as Jesus loves: when "obedience becomes a joy rather than a burden."
God does not need us to love Him. But oh, how we need to love God!
For what we love determines what we seek.
What we seek determines what we think and do.
What we think and do determines who we are-and who we will become.
Love is the defining characteristic of a disciple of Christ.
At the heart of misery from the days of Adam until today, you will find the love of wrong things. And at the heart of joy, you will find the love of good things.
Regardless of our current state, there is hope for us. No matter our distress, no matter our sorrow, no matter our mistakes, our infinitely compassionate Heavenly Father desires that we draw near to Him so that He can draw near to us.
Since "God is love," the closer we approach Him, the more profoundly we experience love.
We increase our love for our Heavenly Father and demonstrate that love by aligning our thoughts and actions with God's word. His pure love directs and encourages us to become more pure and holy. It inspires us to walk in righteousness-not out of fear or obligation but out of an earnest desire to become even more like Him because we love Him.
Here are some of the solid answers I am looking for: increase and demonstrate our love by aligning our thoughts and actions with God's word. I like the result, doing what's right not out of fear or obligation but out of a desire to be more like Him. That is another good gauge of how I can be doing.
My dear brothers and sisters, don't get discouraged if you stumble at times. Don't feel downcast or despair if you don't feel worthy to be a disciple of Christ at all times. The first step to walking in righteousness is simply to try. We must try to believe. Try to learn of God: read the scriptures; study the words of His latter-day prophets; choose to listen to the Father, and do the things He asks of us. Try and keep on trying until that which seems difficult becomes possible-and that which becomes possible-and that which seems only possible becomes habit and a real part of you.
Great counsel for getting started and persevering during trials to finally make love a habit and part of me.
If you listen for the voice of the Father, He will lead you on a course that will allow you to experience the pure love of Christ.
If we do not neglect the great laws-if we truly learn to love our Heavenly Father and our fellowman with all our heart, soul, and mind-all else will fall into place.
Love is the guiding light that illuminates the disciples path and fills our daily walk with life, meaning, and wonder.
Let us be known as a people who love God with all our heart, soul, and mind and who love our neighbor as ourselves. When we understand and practice these two great commandments in our families, in our wards and branches, in our nations, and in our daily lives, we will begin to understand what it means to be a true disciple of Jesus the Christ.
I do have a better idea of the answer to my original question. No it is time to get to work!
President Henry B. Eyring: The Sustaining of Church Officers
Besides the usual sustaining of the Prophet, First Pesidency, and Quorum of the Twelve, I found it noteworthy that Elder Charles Didier was released as a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy and given emeritus General Authority status. Elder Didier was called as a General Authority to the Seventy in the 1970s. He is from Belgium and I had a chance to attend a few conferences where he presided when I was a missionary there. I had a chance to meet and work with his sons when I was on my mission. Missionaries were often fearful of a "Didier Conference" when he was there and would put missionaries on the spot. I never saw that.
Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander was also released and given emeritus status. I'm pretty sure that he is Gary Neuenschwander's uncle.
Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander was also released and given emeritus status. I'm pretty sure that he is Gary Neuenschwander's uncle.
Elder Dallin H. Oaks: Love and Law
This was an interesting talk because you could see Elder Oaks judicial background. He was very logical in presenting his arguments. He tried to balance love and law, but I think the law part was more forceful. In the morning session, President Uchtdorf also talked about love. I think the love part was more evident in his talk.
Nevertheless, Elder Oaks raised some very good points. A the beginning he stated:
My message is that God's universal and perfect love is shown in all the blessings of His gospel plan, including the fact that His choicest blessings are reserved for those who obey His law. I will begin with four examples which illustrate some mortal confusion between love and law.
Those examples dealt primarily with children desiring parental love over eternal law. One dealt with the issue of how God could let bad things happen to good people. The answer lies with the principle of agency. Elder Oaks stated:
. . . God will not forestall the exercise of agency by His children. Agency - our power to choose - is fundamental to the gospel plan that brings us to earth. God does not intervene to forestall the consequences of some persons' choices in order to protect the well-being of other persons - even when they kill, injure, or oppress one another - for this would destroy His plan for eternal progress. He will bless us to endure the consequences of other's choices, but He will not prevent those choices.
Elder Russell M. Nelson taught that "real love does not support self-destructing behavior."
Elder Oaks concludes with this thought that caught my attention:
. . . When family members are not united in striving to keep the commandments of God, there will be divisions.
I'm glad that our family members are striving to keep the commandments.
Nevertheless, Elder Oaks raised some very good points. A the beginning he stated:
My message is that God's universal and perfect love is shown in all the blessings of His gospel plan, including the fact that His choicest blessings are reserved for those who obey His law. I will begin with four examples which illustrate some mortal confusion between love and law.
Those examples dealt primarily with children desiring parental love over eternal law. One dealt with the issue of how God could let bad things happen to good people. The answer lies with the principle of agency. Elder Oaks stated:
. . . God will not forestall the exercise of agency by His children. Agency - our power to choose - is fundamental to the gospel plan that brings us to earth. God does not intervene to forestall the consequences of some persons' choices in order to protect the well-being of other persons - even when they kill, injure, or oppress one another - for this would destroy His plan for eternal progress. He will bless us to endure the consequences of other's choices, but He will not prevent those choices.
Elder Russell M. Nelson taught that "real love does not support self-destructing behavior."
Elder Oaks concludes with this thought that caught my attention:
. . . When family members are not united in striving to keep the commandments of God, there will be divisions.
I'm glad that our family members are striving to keep the commandments.
Elder Robert D. Hales: Seeking to Know God, Our Heavenly Father, and His Son Jesus Christ
Part of Elder Hales' talk was about all the things we know about God that are from the scriptures (modern and ancient):
The strength and peace that come from knowing God and having the comforting companionship of His Spirit will make your efforts eternally worthwhile.
- Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, have a physical presence (Acts 7:56)
- The Father and the Son have voices (Moses 4:14 and Genesis 3:8)
- The Father and the Son have faces, They stand, and They converse (Moses 7:4)
- God and His Son have bodies, in form and parts like ours (Ether 3:6 & 3:16)
- The Father and the Son have feelings for us (Moses 7:28)
- God and His Son, Jesus Christ, are immortal, glorified, and perfected beings (D&C 110:3)
The strength and peace that come from knowing God and having the comforting companionship of His Spirit will make your efforts eternally worthwhile.
Elder Jorge F. Zeballos: Attempting the Impossible
Attempting the Impossible seems to be about fulfilling Jesus Christ's command to "be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect." (3 Nephi 12:48) Elder Zeballos offers some counsel concerning this daunting task.
Eternal life is to live with our Father and with our families forevermore. Should not this promise be the greatest incentive to do the best within our reach and give the best of ourselves in pursuit of what has been promised to us?
President David O. McKay said that the rich rewards come only to the strenuous strugglers.
The command to become perfect, as He is, encourages us to
Immediately after teaching that "it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength," King Benjamin indicated that "it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize." God will not require more than the best we can give because that would not be just, but neither can He accept less than that because that would not be just either. Therefore, let us always give the best we can in the service of God and our fellowmen.
Eternal life is to live with our Father and with our families forevermore. Should not this promise be the greatest incentive to do the best within our reach and give the best of ourselves in pursuit of what has been promised to us?
President David O. McKay said that the rich rewards come only to the strenuous strugglers.
The command to become perfect, as He is, encourages us to
- achieve the best of ourselves,
- to discover and develop the talents and attributes with which we are blessed by a loving Eternal Father, who invites us to
- realize our potential as children of God.
Immediately after teaching that "it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength," King Benjamin indicated that "it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize." God will not require more than the best we can give because that would not be just, but neither can He accept less than that because that would not be just either. Therefore, let us always give the best we can in the service of God and our fellowmen.
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