Click link to read lesson from manual - Lesson 12
Our teacher started with a simple quote by President Hinckley, “The way of the gospel is a simple way…Humble yourselves and walk in obedience.” The teacher asked us to think about why we must be humble to walk in obedience. We must come to trust and understand God’s will, and align our will with His so we can reap the blessings that can come only through obedience to the commandments. Throughout President Hinckley’s time as President of the Church, he encouraged members to try harder to live the Gospel.
As we obey God’s commandments we can’t remain ordinary people. Our teacher reminded us that we are covenant people of the Lord, which should set us apart from the world. President Hinckley taught that beginning when we were baptized, we took upon ourselves the name of Christ and started a special relationship with God. Because of the covenants we made, it is our duty to, “stand a little taller…be a little better, a little kinder, a little more generous, a little more courteous, a little more thoughtful, a little more outreaching to others.”
President Hinckley stated that we all compromise our standards at times, but we need to work to grow stronger and live according to our beliefs. Some ideas that we discussed in class for developing this strength was to pray, study the Gospel, make the decision beforehand what we will and won’t do, attend church, keep the Holy Ghost always with us, let the Gospel change us so we desire to do good continually, and let people know that we are members of the church so they don’t ask us to do things that are against our beliefs. President Hinckley reminded us that, “The Lord expects that we will keep our lives in order, that we will live the gospel in every aspect.”
We then discussed the blessings that come to those who are faithful to the Gospel. The blessings of safety and happiness are unmeasurable. No matter what trials we face, we will feel peace as we are obedient to God’s commandments. President Hinckley also taught that church leaders will never make decisions for us, but will invite us to live God’s commandments so we can receive the promised blessings.
The tiny choices in our lives can sometimes have huge impacts, affecting us for years to come. As we choose to be obedient, our choices will lead the direction that will lead to happiness and fulfillment. We need to use the Spirit so we can recognize when we are making small deviations and correct them before they become a big problem. We need to be sure we are also being prayerful about important decisions in our lives so that God can help direct our path.
President Hinckley promised all the members of the Church that as we move forward, striving to keep God’s commandments, we will have the strength of the Lord to assist us in carrying out His work.
Showing posts with label Sunday Lessons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sunday Lessons. Show all posts
Thursday, July 13, 2017
Sunday, June 25, 2017
Sunday Lesson, June 25th
Our lesson this week was on the April 2017 conference talk by Elder Oaks on the Godhead. Elder Oaks explained that the doctrine of the Godhead makes our church stand out and has an impact on many other beliefs that we have. Throughout the lesson we discussed why it is so important that we know the true nature of the Godhead. Elder Oaks taught that each member of the Godhead has an important and distinct role in the plan of salvation.
We first discussed that one thing that sets us apart is that we believe we can come to know God. We lived with them before mortality and learned what we could as spirits. We are on earth to learn, through experience, even more about God. Our learning will continue after this life. We know that God the Father and His Son have bodies of flesh and bone and we know many things about their nature and character.
We then discussed the different roles of each member of the Godhead. Joseph Smith described the roles of the Godhead thus, “God the first, the Creator; God the second, the Redeemer; and God the third, the Witness or Testator… [It is] the province of the Father to preside as the Chief or President, Jesus as the Mediator, and the Holy Ghost as the Testator or Witness.”
Elder Oaks started by describing the role of God our Father as the president and leader of the Godhead. He taught, “God the Father is the Father of our spirits. We are His children. He loves us, and all that He does is for our eternal benefit. He is the author of the plan of salvation, and it is by His power that His plan achieves its purposes for the ultimate glory of His children.”
Next, we discussed the important role of the Savior. President Thomas S. Monson taught, “Essential to the plan [of salvation] is our Savior, Jesus Christ. Without His atoning sacrifice, all would be lost.” The Holy Spirit leads us into all truth and testifies of the Father and Son. His role is essential for us to know we are on the right path.
We are blessed to understand God’s plan of salvation for all of His children and the role of each member of the Godhead within that plan.
We first discussed that one thing that sets us apart is that we believe we can come to know God. We lived with them before mortality and learned what we could as spirits. We are on earth to learn, through experience, even more about God. Our learning will continue after this life. We know that God the Father and His Son have bodies of flesh and bone and we know many things about their nature and character.
We then discussed the different roles of each member of the Godhead. Joseph Smith described the roles of the Godhead thus, “God the first, the Creator; God the second, the Redeemer; and God the third, the Witness or Testator… [It is] the province of the Father to preside as the Chief or President, Jesus as the Mediator, and the Holy Ghost as the Testator or Witness.”
Elder Oaks started by describing the role of God our Father as the president and leader of the Godhead. He taught, “God the Father is the Father of our spirits. We are His children. He loves us, and all that He does is for our eternal benefit. He is the author of the plan of salvation, and it is by His power that His plan achieves its purposes for the ultimate glory of His children.”
Next, we discussed the important role of the Savior. President Thomas S. Monson taught, “Essential to the plan [of salvation] is our Savior, Jesus Christ. Without His atoning sacrifice, all would be lost.” The Holy Spirit leads us into all truth and testifies of the Father and Son. His role is essential for us to know we are on the right path.
We are blessed to understand God’s plan of salvation for all of His children and the role of each member of the Godhead within that plan.
Sunday, June 18, 2017
Sunday Lesson, June 18th
Home—The Basis of a Righteous Life
President Hinckley believed strongly that “the strength of any nation is rooted within the walls of its homes”. He taught us many principles to understand the importance of family relationships and to learn how to strengthen family members and teach in our homes.
Our family relationships are the most important relationships we have, and we have the responsibility to help our children learn the principles of the Gospel. We must do so by the Spirit; being gentle, kind, and loving as we teach them to understand the Gospel. When we teach in this way, President Hinckley said that there will be love and peace in our homes, and warm relationships will develop.
We must also remember that children are gifts from God and treat them accordingly. President Hinckley encouraged us to control our anger when speaking with children and to be free with compliments, while limiting criticism. Love is the best way to teach our children.
Family prayer is very important. Our children will need to learn that they can rely on their parents when they need help, and also learn that they also will need the help of the Lord. Teaching children to pray through family prayer is essential.
Family home evening is also very important. President Hinckley urged everyone to make the effort to hold it. He said, “If you have any doubt about the virtue of family home evening, try it. Gather your children about you, teach them, bear testimony to them, read the scriptures together and have a good time together.”
President Hinckley emphasized that it is far easier to direct a child when they are young than trying to change them when they are older. He compared it to the importance of staking a tree so it will grow straight instead of having to severely prune it to help it be straight after it is established. Sometimes, even if a child is brought up properly they still may rebel against Gospel teachings. President Hinckley urged us to never give up, it is never too late!
We closed with President Hinckley’s wise counsel. “Raising a family may not be easy. It may be fraught with disappointment and challenge. It will require courage and patience…Love can make the difference—love generously given in childhood and reaching through the awkward years of youth will do what money lavished on children will never do.
“These, with prayers, will accomplish wonders. You cannot expect to do it alone. You need heaven’s help in raising heaven’s child—your child, who is also the child of his or her Heavenly Father.”
President Hinckley believed strongly that “the strength of any nation is rooted within the walls of its homes”. He taught us many principles to understand the importance of family relationships and to learn how to strengthen family members and teach in our homes.
Our family relationships are the most important relationships we have, and we have the responsibility to help our children learn the principles of the Gospel. We must do so by the Spirit; being gentle, kind, and loving as we teach them to understand the Gospel. When we teach in this way, President Hinckley said that there will be love and peace in our homes, and warm relationships will develop.
We must also remember that children are gifts from God and treat them accordingly. President Hinckley encouraged us to control our anger when speaking with children and to be free with compliments, while limiting criticism. Love is the best way to teach our children.
Family prayer is very important. Our children will need to learn that they can rely on their parents when they need help, and also learn that they also will need the help of the Lord. Teaching children to pray through family prayer is essential.
Family home evening is also very important. President Hinckley urged everyone to make the effort to hold it. He said, “If you have any doubt about the virtue of family home evening, try it. Gather your children about you, teach them, bear testimony to them, read the scriptures together and have a good time together.”
President Hinckley emphasized that it is far easier to direct a child when they are young than trying to change them when they are older. He compared it to the importance of staking a tree so it will grow straight instead of having to severely prune it to help it be straight after it is established. Sometimes, even if a child is brought up properly they still may rebel against Gospel teachings. President Hinckley urged us to never give up, it is never too late!
We closed with President Hinckley’s wise counsel. “Raising a family may not be easy. It may be fraught with disappointment and challenge. It will require courage and patience…Love can make the difference—love generously given in childhood and reaching through the awkward years of youth will do what money lavished on children will never do.
“These, with prayers, will accomplish wonders. You cannot expect to do it alone. You need heaven’s help in raising heaven’s child—your child, who is also the child of his or her Heavenly Father.”
Sunday, June 11, 2017
Sunday Lesson, June 11th
Nurturing the Eternal Partnership of Marriage
President and Sister Hinckley were wonderful example of being equal and loving partners in their marriage. They each saw the potential that the other had supported and cared for each other. President Hinckley shared some of the experience and wisdom gained through his marriage that can help us strengthen our own marriages or look forward to an eternal partnership in the future.
When a couple first is married, there is a period of time to get used to each other. Remember that this doesn’t mean that there is not love in the relationship or something is wrong with the marriage; it is normal. We need to realize that we should not try to change our spouse, but get used to their differences and learn to appreciate and see their strengths.
When Sister Hinckley passed on in 2004, President Hinckley stated that even through his despair, there was an assurance that, “as surely as there has been a separation, there will be a joyful reuniting.” If we are being Christ-like in our marriages, we too can have this assurance and can prepare for the blessing of eternal life. Temple attendance can strengthen our marriages and families and help us become better marriage partners.
Our teacher shared her experience of being divorced and not knowing when she would remarry. She reminded us that all will have the opportunity for an eternal marriage because God is just and good. No matter what the timing is, God will not withhold His greatest blessings from any that are faithful. We should be sure to include those who are single and not think that being married or single makes a person different.
President Hinckley shared wonderful advice on how to be happy in our marriages. He said, “I have learned that the real essence of happiness in marriage lies … in an anxious concern for the comfort and well-being of one’s companion. Thinking of self alone and of the gratification of personal desires will build neither trust, love, nor happiness.” He also shared that as we are simply kind and concerned for the other partner in our marriage, we will fortify our marriages against divorce. We discussed that we will at times be disappointed in our marriages, but we will also disappoint our spouse at times.
Repentance and forgiveness are central to a happy marriage. Even when our marriage (or not being married) is not according to our plan, we can find comfort that it is part of the Lord’s plan to help us become who He wants and needs us to be.
President and Sister Hinckley were wonderful example of being equal and loving partners in their marriage. They each saw the potential that the other had supported and cared for each other. President Hinckley shared some of the experience and wisdom gained through his marriage that can help us strengthen our own marriages or look forward to an eternal partnership in the future.
When a couple first is married, there is a period of time to get used to each other. Remember that this doesn’t mean that there is not love in the relationship or something is wrong with the marriage; it is normal. We need to realize that we should not try to change our spouse, but get used to their differences and learn to appreciate and see their strengths.
When Sister Hinckley passed on in 2004, President Hinckley stated that even through his despair, there was an assurance that, “as surely as there has been a separation, there will be a joyful reuniting.” If we are being Christ-like in our marriages, we too can have this assurance and can prepare for the blessing of eternal life. Temple attendance can strengthen our marriages and families and help us become better marriage partners.
Our teacher shared her experience of being divorced and not knowing when she would remarry. She reminded us that all will have the opportunity for an eternal marriage because God is just and good. No matter what the timing is, God will not withhold His greatest blessings from any that are faithful. We should be sure to include those who are single and not think that being married or single makes a person different.
President Hinckley shared wonderful advice on how to be happy in our marriages. He said, “I have learned that the real essence of happiness in marriage lies … in an anxious concern for the comfort and well-being of one’s companion. Thinking of self alone and of the gratification of personal desires will build neither trust, love, nor happiness.” He also shared that as we are simply kind and concerned for the other partner in our marriage, we will fortify our marriages against divorce. We discussed that we will at times be disappointed in our marriages, but we will also disappoint our spouse at times.
Repentance and forgiveness are central to a happy marriage. Even when our marriage (or not being married) is not according to our plan, we can find comfort that it is part of the Lord’s plan to help us become who He wants and needs us to be.
Sunday, June 4, 2017
Sunday Lesson, June 4th
This week in Relief Society we discussed things we can do to be fully committed to the Gospel and the blessings we receive as we are fully committed. Thoughts and stories we taken from Elder Sabin’s conference talk from April 2017.
We started with a story that Elder Sabin shared about a boy who didn’t unroll his sleeping bag on a campout. In the morning he complained that he had been cold most of the night, but hadn’t wanted to roll the sleeping bag back up in the morning. Elder Sabin said that similarly we can think we can remain spiritual strong but don’t take time to study our scriptures, pray, or do the others things that we know will strengthen us spiritually. We need to be fully committed, or “all in” as Elder Sabin says, to receive the blessings we desire.
One of the amazing blessings of being all in is that the storms and trials of life cannot keep us down. Elder Sabin said that being fully committed helps us “stand up on the inside”; able to bounce back up after being knocked down by trials. What an amazing blessing!
We show we are committed by accepting God’s will in times of disease, death of a loved one, or other trials. When we are all-in we will also help others who are in need, defend the truth and stand up for what is right. Living this way may sound difficult, but Elder Sabin said that only being partially committed can be more difficult. He said, “If we are not able to be “all in” the way we are presently walking, then maybe we need to run; maybe we need to recalculate our route. We might even need to make a U-turn. We might need to study more intently, pray more earnestly, or just let some things go so we can hang on to those things that really matter. We may need to let go of the world so we can hang on to eternity.” The sacrifice is worth the blessing of having the peace and joy that accompany a righteous life.
When we live fully committed to the Gospel, we bless far more lives than just our own. Our example will help others come unto Christ.
Elder Sabin closed by reminding us that all things will work for our good as we serve God. He also reminded us that no matter the course our life is on today, we can change and be better and receive all the blessings God desires to give us.
We started with a story that Elder Sabin shared about a boy who didn’t unroll his sleeping bag on a campout. In the morning he complained that he had been cold most of the night, but hadn’t wanted to roll the sleeping bag back up in the morning. Elder Sabin said that similarly we can think we can remain spiritual strong but don’t take time to study our scriptures, pray, or do the others things that we know will strengthen us spiritually. We need to be fully committed, or “all in” as Elder Sabin says, to receive the blessings we desire.
One of the amazing blessings of being all in is that the storms and trials of life cannot keep us down. Elder Sabin said that being fully committed helps us “stand up on the inside”; able to bounce back up after being knocked down by trials. What an amazing blessing!
We show we are committed by accepting God’s will in times of disease, death of a loved one, or other trials. When we are all-in we will also help others who are in need, defend the truth and stand up for what is right. Living this way may sound difficult, but Elder Sabin said that only being partially committed can be more difficult. He said, “If we are not able to be “all in” the way we are presently walking, then maybe we need to run; maybe we need to recalculate our route. We might even need to make a U-turn. We might need to study more intently, pray more earnestly, or just let some things go so we can hang on to those things that really matter. We may need to let go of the world so we can hang on to eternity.” The sacrifice is worth the blessing of having the peace and joy that accompany a righteous life.
When we live fully committed to the Gospel, we bless far more lives than just our own. Our example will help others come unto Christ.
Elder Sabin closed by reminding us that all things will work for our good as we serve God. He also reminded us that no matter the course our life is on today, we can change and be better and receive all the blessings God desires to give us.
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Sunday Lesson: May 14th
Our lesson today in Relief Society was on the Precious Gift of Testimony. Our teacher started by sharing a personal experience of being sealed to her family when she was six years old. She said it was such a special experience being within the walls of the temple and it was the first time she remembers recognizing the Spirit. That experience started her personal testimony.
Our testimonies are a precious gift that is given to us through the Spirit. To keep them strong, we must daily nourish them by praying, reading our scriptures, serving and being obedient to all God’s commandments. Each member’s personal testimony is the great strength of the Church. It is worth any effort it might take to keep it strong. It will be a strength to us in times of need and help us make choices that will lead us closer to God.
When we have a testimony, it causes each one of us to act; to obey God’s commandments. Some of those actions will be very small and may seem insignificant, but when we act because of our testimony it will bring changes for the better in our lives. This will not only make us worthy before God, it will also bring a peace into our lives that we cannot otherwise experience.
When we share our testimonies with others, we are sharing what we have found to be true. President Hinckley said it is powerful to share our testimonies because, “when one says, ‘I know,’ there can be no further argument…” It is a great way to share the Gospel in a non-contentious way, even if our testimony is not accepted.
The testimony of each member of the church is what unites us around the world. President Hinckley explained that although we live in many different locations and speak many languages, we are one because we know “that Jesus is our Redeemer, who stands at the head of this Church which carries His name. We know that Joseph Smith was a prophet…We know that the priesthood was restored…We know that the Book of Mormon is a true testament of the reality and divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ.” These powerful truths change lives one person at a time and help us find peace and happiness.
Our testimonies are a precious gift that is given to us through the Spirit. To keep them strong, we must daily nourish them by praying, reading our scriptures, serving and being obedient to all God’s commandments. Each member’s personal testimony is the great strength of the Church. It is worth any effort it might take to keep it strong. It will be a strength to us in times of need and help us make choices that will lead us closer to God.
When we have a testimony, it causes each one of us to act; to obey God’s commandments. Some of those actions will be very small and may seem insignificant, but when we act because of our testimony it will bring changes for the better in our lives. This will not only make us worthy before God, it will also bring a peace into our lives that we cannot otherwise experience.
When we share our testimonies with others, we are sharing what we have found to be true. President Hinckley said it is powerful to share our testimonies because, “when one says, ‘I know,’ there can be no further argument…” It is a great way to share the Gospel in a non-contentious way, even if our testimony is not accepted.
The testimony of each member of the church is what unites us around the world. President Hinckley explained that although we live in many different locations and speak many languages, we are one because we know “that Jesus is our Redeemer, who stands at the head of this Church which carries His name. We know that Joseph Smith was a prophet…We know that the priesthood was restored…We know that the Book of Mormon is a true testament of the reality and divinity of the Lord Jesus Christ.” These powerful truths change lives one person at a time and help us find peace and happiness.
Sunday, April 30, 2017
Sunday, April 30th
We had fifth Sunday instruction by members of the Elder’s Quorum, Young Women, and Sunday School presidencies.
First, we discussed Elder Rasband’s talk on the Holy Ghost. Some things we can do to become more receptive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost are to quiet our lives, listen to conference while we commute, make sure we are having meaningful scripture study and prayer. We should also ask for guidance and promise to act on promptings we receive. Above all, we need to be meek and humble.
We will not always see immediate confirmation that following the Spirit made a difference in our lives but this doesn’t mean that we were not acting on a prompting. Promptings can help us be in the right place at the right time or help us avoid mistakes or accidents that would have otherwise occurred. Don’t question or second guess, just respond to the first prompting.
It is important to teach children to recognize the Spirit. We do this by pointing out the feeling of the Spirit when it is being felt, but also but pointing out when the Spirit has to withdrawal because of a child’s poor choice. It is also our responsibility as parents to make our homes a holy place where the Spirit can be felt.
Next, we discussed a couple of talks on teaching children. Elder Palmer discussed the phrase, “Then Jesus beholding Him, loved Him” (Mark 0:21). We should never withdrawal love from a child, regardless of their choices. We should also help them be a part of the decision making process for personal choices instead of just telling them they can or can’t do something. This will help them learn how to seek the Spirit to make the right choice.
Finally we discussed Elder Anderson’s talk on overcoming the world. We need to work to overcome the natural man within each of us. Whatever our weaknesses are, we need to begin by being humble and recognizing that we need the Savior to overcome our sins and weakness.
First, we discussed Elder Rasband’s talk on the Holy Ghost. Some things we can do to become more receptive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost are to quiet our lives, listen to conference while we commute, make sure we are having meaningful scripture study and prayer. We should also ask for guidance and promise to act on promptings we receive. Above all, we need to be meek and humble.
We will not always see immediate confirmation that following the Spirit made a difference in our lives but this doesn’t mean that we were not acting on a prompting. Promptings can help us be in the right place at the right time or help us avoid mistakes or accidents that would have otherwise occurred. Don’t question or second guess, just respond to the first prompting.
It is important to teach children to recognize the Spirit. We do this by pointing out the feeling of the Spirit when it is being felt, but also but pointing out when the Spirit has to withdrawal because of a child’s poor choice. It is also our responsibility as parents to make our homes a holy place where the Spirit can be felt.
Next, we discussed a couple of talks on teaching children. Elder Palmer discussed the phrase, “Then Jesus beholding Him, loved Him” (Mark 0:21). We should never withdrawal love from a child, regardless of their choices. We should also help them be a part of the decision making process for personal choices instead of just telling them they can or can’t do something. This will help them learn how to seek the Spirit to make the right choice.
Finally we discussed Elder Anderson’s talk on overcoming the world. We need to work to overcome the natural man within each of us. Whatever our weaknesses are, we need to begin by being humble and recognizing that we need the Savior to overcome our sins and weakness.
Thursday, April 27, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Apr 23rd
The Whisperings of the Spirit
Our lesson in Relief Society this Sunday was on recognizing and using the gift of the Holy Ghost in our lives. The Spirit is known by many names in the scriptures and has many roles, but one of the primary roles of the Holy Ghost is to teach us all things because He knows all things. Prophets speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; this is where the gift of prophesy comes from. The Holy Ghost bears record of the Father and Son, which allows people to come to gain a testimony and move towards greater truth. We discussed that the power of the Holy Ghost can touch anyone when they are seeking and have found truth.
The gift of the Holy Ghost is one of life’s greatest gifts to us and it comes only after baptism and confirmation into the Church. President Hinckley taught, “There is no greater blessing that can come into our lives than the gift of the Holy Ghost—the companionship of the Holy Spirit to guide us, protect us, and bless us, to go, as it were, as a pillar before us and a flame to lead us in paths of righteousness and truth. That guiding power of the third member of the Godhead can be ours if we live worthy of it.”
President Hinckley taught that we can learn to recognize the promptings of the Spirit by paying attention to the fruits of what we feel. Those things that lead us to grow or do good and to be better than we were are prompted by the Spirit. The Spirit testifies of truth no matter where it is found, and so it is the perfect gift to help us discern and make choices.
The teacher then taught us from Elder Rasband’s talk from April Conference. He taught that it is our sacred responsibility to recognize and respond to the Spirit. He suggested four ways for us to become better at recognizing promptings we receive. 1. Strive to live worthy of the Spirit. 2. Be willing to receive the Spirit; to listen and obey. 3. Recognize that the Spirit usually speaks through feelings, small but powerful 4. Respond quickly when we do recognize a prompting.
The teacher challenged us to look up the many different names and roles of the Holy Ghost in the Topical Guide and study them throughout the year. There are hundreds of scriptures that will teach us more about the third member of the Godhead. As we study and ponder we will gain greater understanding of this amazing gift and know how to recognize and respond to the Spirit’s promptings.
Our lesson in Relief Society this Sunday was on recognizing and using the gift of the Holy Ghost in our lives. The Spirit is known by many names in the scriptures and has many roles, but one of the primary roles of the Holy Ghost is to teach us all things because He knows all things. Prophets speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; this is where the gift of prophesy comes from. The Holy Ghost bears record of the Father and Son, which allows people to come to gain a testimony and move towards greater truth. We discussed that the power of the Holy Ghost can touch anyone when they are seeking and have found truth.
The gift of the Holy Ghost is one of life’s greatest gifts to us and it comes only after baptism and confirmation into the Church. President Hinckley taught, “There is no greater blessing that can come into our lives than the gift of the Holy Ghost—the companionship of the Holy Spirit to guide us, protect us, and bless us, to go, as it were, as a pillar before us and a flame to lead us in paths of righteousness and truth. That guiding power of the third member of the Godhead can be ours if we live worthy of it.”
President Hinckley taught that we can learn to recognize the promptings of the Spirit by paying attention to the fruits of what we feel. Those things that lead us to grow or do good and to be better than we were are prompted by the Spirit. The Spirit testifies of truth no matter where it is found, and so it is the perfect gift to help us discern and make choices.
The teacher then taught us from Elder Rasband’s talk from April Conference. He taught that it is our sacred responsibility to recognize and respond to the Spirit. He suggested four ways for us to become better at recognizing promptings we receive. 1. Strive to live worthy of the Spirit. 2. Be willing to receive the Spirit; to listen and obey. 3. Recognize that the Spirit usually speaks through feelings, small but powerful 4. Respond quickly when we do recognize a prompting.
The teacher challenged us to look up the many different names and roles of the Holy Ghost in the Topical Guide and study them throughout the year. There are hundreds of scriptures that will teach us more about the third member of the Godhead. As we study and ponder we will gain greater understanding of this amazing gift and know how to recognize and respond to the Spirit’s promptings.
Friday, April 21, 2017
Sunday Lesson, April 16th
Our lesson for Easter Sunday was on looking to Christ. The lesson started with the story of a minister who asked President Hinckley, “If you do not use the cross, what is the symbol of your religion?” President Hinckley replied, “the lives of our people must become the only meaningful expression of our faith and…the symbol of our worship.” We have a great responsibility to have a strong testimony of our Savior and to pattern our lives after His. As a personal assessment, we can tell if our testimonies need work based on our actions.
We discussed events in the life of Christ and things we can learn from them. We learned that He knew His mission and was always about His “Father’s business”. Despite all the opposition He faced throughout His life, He still continued to do good wherever He went. His example up to the very end of His life is inspiring.
One phrase we discussed in detail was “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Our teacher reminded us that from this phrase we learn that there is never a reason for revenge. Many of the things that we respond with anger to are really quite silly. We discussed that we can change our attitude and be charitable in our response as the Savior always was when others are thoughtless or unkind. We also discussed the power to forgive that comes from praying for our enemies and those who are unkind to us.
President Hinckley then presented questions for us to ponder to assess our faith. Do we believe in Jesus Christ as the literal Son of God, that He performed miracles throughout His life and was resurrected the third day following His death? If we do, do our lives show that belief?
We need to gain a knowledge of Christ’s “unique and incomparable position as the divine Redeemer and an enthusiasm for him and his message as the Son of God.” He then shared three ways we can gain this understanding and enthusiasm. “The first is to read…the word of the Lord.” Second, President Hinckley shared, “serve in the work of the Lord… The cause of Christ does not need your doubts; it needs your strength and time and talents; and as you exercise these in service, your faith will grow and your doubts will wane.” What a powerful promise from a prophet of God! Third, we should pray. President Hinckley promised that as we do so, “there will come a heaven-sent assurance, peaceful and certain.”
What should we do with the teachings and our testimony of Jesus Christ? We need to forgive as He forgave, to be kind and merciful, and to serve others. We need to strive to become like Him. In closing, our teacher repeated her invitation for us to ponder our testimony of the Savior and to ponder if our lives are a meaningful expression of that testimony.
We discussed events in the life of Christ and things we can learn from them. We learned that He knew His mission and was always about His “Father’s business”. Despite all the opposition He faced throughout His life, He still continued to do good wherever He went. His example up to the very end of His life is inspiring.
One phrase we discussed in detail was “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). Our teacher reminded us that from this phrase we learn that there is never a reason for revenge. Many of the things that we respond with anger to are really quite silly. We discussed that we can change our attitude and be charitable in our response as the Savior always was when others are thoughtless or unkind. We also discussed the power to forgive that comes from praying for our enemies and those who are unkind to us.
President Hinckley then presented questions for us to ponder to assess our faith. Do we believe in Jesus Christ as the literal Son of God, that He performed miracles throughout His life and was resurrected the third day following His death? If we do, do our lives show that belief?
We need to gain a knowledge of Christ’s “unique and incomparable position as the divine Redeemer and an enthusiasm for him and his message as the Son of God.” He then shared three ways we can gain this understanding and enthusiasm. “The first is to read…the word of the Lord.” Second, President Hinckley shared, “serve in the work of the Lord… The cause of Christ does not need your doubts; it needs your strength and time and talents; and as you exercise these in service, your faith will grow and your doubts will wane.” What a powerful promise from a prophet of God! Third, we should pray. President Hinckley promised that as we do so, “there will come a heaven-sent assurance, peaceful and certain.”
What should we do with the teachings and our testimony of Jesus Christ? We need to forgive as He forgave, to be kind and merciful, and to serve others. We need to strive to become like Him. In closing, our teacher repeated her invitation for us to ponder our testimony of the Savior and to ponder if our lives are a meaningful expression of that testimony.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Sunday Lesson: Apr 9th
Ward Conference: Developing a Bedrock Understanding of the Doctrine of Christ
Our lesson in Relief Society this Sunday was taught by the Stake RS Presidency. They discussed the three principles that Sister Oscarson discussed during General Women’s Conference last fall. She quoted President Russell M. Nelson who said, “Attacks against the Church, its doctrine, and our way of life are going to increase. Because of this, we need women who have a bedrock understanding of the doctrine of Christ and who will use that understanding to teach and help raise a sin-resistant generation.” Sister Oscarson expressed her confidence in us to have the faith and strength to meet the challenges of living in the last days and gave us three tools to help us.
“First, we need to acknowledge the centrality of God our Eternal Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, to our faith and salvation.” The teacher explained that the Savior must be our foundation. We discussed the hopeless state we would be in without the atonement and that it is through the atonement that we can get out of the sink-hole of sin and depression. His atonement is like a ladder that Christ made through His perfect life, His suffering for us, and His resurrection. There is no other good choice than to come unto Jesus.
Second, “we need to study and understand temple ordinances and covenants.” The temple can give us the perspective and orientation that are so vital to help us stay in the world but not of the world. Without the temple, it is easy to lose our understanding of what is important and what we are trying to achieve.
Third, “we need to understand the need for the restoration of the doctrine, organization, and keys of authority in these latter days”. The teacher reminded us that the great apostasy was a rebellion against God’s authority. People were taking society’s culture and trying to make it fit in with the truth of the Gospel.
Today we have similar issues. We cannot go along with those things that society thinks is acceptable but God has says is not. It is easy to be personally deceived in our day, but because of the restoration through Joseph Smith we have the truth and we have been promised that the Gospel will not be taken from the earth again. This means we can and should rely on the living prophets and apostles, as well as make scripture study and prayer a priority so that we do not experience a personal apostasy.
Each of us were invited to study these three principles so that we can build bedrock faith in Christ that will be needed to stand in these last days.
Our lesson in Relief Society this Sunday was taught by the Stake RS Presidency. They discussed the three principles that Sister Oscarson discussed during General Women’s Conference last fall. She quoted President Russell M. Nelson who said, “Attacks against the Church, its doctrine, and our way of life are going to increase. Because of this, we need women who have a bedrock understanding of the doctrine of Christ and who will use that understanding to teach and help raise a sin-resistant generation.” Sister Oscarson expressed her confidence in us to have the faith and strength to meet the challenges of living in the last days and gave us three tools to help us.
“First, we need to acknowledge the centrality of God our Eternal Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, to our faith and salvation.” The teacher explained that the Savior must be our foundation. We discussed the hopeless state we would be in without the atonement and that it is through the atonement that we can get out of the sink-hole of sin and depression. His atonement is like a ladder that Christ made through His perfect life, His suffering for us, and His resurrection. There is no other good choice than to come unto Jesus.
Second, “we need to study and understand temple ordinances and covenants.” The temple can give us the perspective and orientation that are so vital to help us stay in the world but not of the world. Without the temple, it is easy to lose our understanding of what is important and what we are trying to achieve.
Third, “we need to understand the need for the restoration of the doctrine, organization, and keys of authority in these latter days”. The teacher reminded us that the great apostasy was a rebellion against God’s authority. People were taking society’s culture and trying to make it fit in with the truth of the Gospel.
Today we have similar issues. We cannot go along with those things that society thinks is acceptable but God has says is not. It is easy to be personally deceived in our day, but because of the restoration through Joseph Smith we have the truth and we have been promised that the Gospel will not be taken from the earth again. This means we can and should rely on the living prophets and apostles, as well as make scripture study and prayer a priority so that we do not experience a personal apostasy.
Each of us were invited to study these three principles so that we can build bedrock faith in Christ that will be needed to stand in these last days.
Monday, March 27, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Mar 26th
Our lesson on Sunday was on two conference talks. We started by discussing Principles and Promises by President Monson from October 2016. He reminded us that as we are obedient we can obtain promised blessings. Elder Ballard talked about the temptations of Satan and how we can overcome them.
President Monson shared a story of a man who was a coast guard in WWII. At one point he found himself in a life or death situation. He needed to climb a 40 foot rope, but did not have the strength to get all the way to the top. He had always lived the Word of Wisdom and he desperately prayed that the strength promised for living that principle would be granted to him. The man said that “as he finished his prayer, he felt a great surge of strength. He began climbing once again and fairly flew up the rope. When he reached the deck, his breathing was normal and not the least bit labored. The blessings of added health and stamina promised in the Word of Wisdom had been his. He gave thanks to his Heavenly Father then, and throughout the remainder of his life, for the answer to his desperate prayer for help.”
We discussed that obedience to God’s commandments gives us confidence to call upon Him in our times of need. When we are obedient, we will have faith to ask and receive blessings from God. We will be spiritually prepared to overcome any obstacle.
In Elder Ballard’s talk from the October 2010 Conference, he compared a fishing lure to Satan’s tactics to trap, trick, and ensnare us. He knows we all have weaknesses and he uses those weaknesses to catch us. Elder Ballard specifically says that Satan uses addictions to limit our agency. An addictions is anything that is habit forming and difficult to break; all of us have addictions that keep us from the best choices. Elder Ballard explained that addiction, “overpowers the part of our brain that governs our willpower, judgment, logic, and morality. This leads the addict to abandon what he or she knows is right. And when that happens, the hook is set and Lucifer takes control.”
We discussed that we need to be aware of “red flags” in ourselves. When we notice we are taking the first steps in addictive behavior such as doing things or thinking about things that we know we shouldn’t be doing, we can write them down so we can be aware and do our best to avoid going further down those paths.
When we fall into the trap of addiction, we can find hope again through the atonement of Jesus Christ. We can turn to Him in prayer to find the strength and will power to make better choices in our lives. It is through faith, prayer, and calling upon God that we will receive the blessings in our lives to have the strength to do hard things and make good choices.
President Monson shared a story of a man who was a coast guard in WWII. At one point he found himself in a life or death situation. He needed to climb a 40 foot rope, but did not have the strength to get all the way to the top. He had always lived the Word of Wisdom and he desperately prayed that the strength promised for living that principle would be granted to him. The man said that “as he finished his prayer, he felt a great surge of strength. He began climbing once again and fairly flew up the rope. When he reached the deck, his breathing was normal and not the least bit labored. The blessings of added health and stamina promised in the Word of Wisdom had been his. He gave thanks to his Heavenly Father then, and throughout the remainder of his life, for the answer to his desperate prayer for help.”
We discussed that obedience to God’s commandments gives us confidence to call upon Him in our times of need. When we are obedient, we will have faith to ask and receive blessings from God. We will be spiritually prepared to overcome any obstacle.
In Elder Ballard’s talk from the October 2010 Conference, he compared a fishing lure to Satan’s tactics to trap, trick, and ensnare us. He knows we all have weaknesses and he uses those weaknesses to catch us. Elder Ballard specifically says that Satan uses addictions to limit our agency. An addictions is anything that is habit forming and difficult to break; all of us have addictions that keep us from the best choices. Elder Ballard explained that addiction, “overpowers the part of our brain that governs our willpower, judgment, logic, and morality. This leads the addict to abandon what he or she knows is right. And when that happens, the hook is set and Lucifer takes control.”
We discussed that we need to be aware of “red flags” in ourselves. When we notice we are taking the first steps in addictive behavior such as doing things or thinking about things that we know we shouldn’t be doing, we can write them down so we can be aware and do our best to avoid going further down those paths.
When we fall into the trap of addiction, we can find hope again through the atonement of Jesus Christ. We can turn to Him in prayer to find the strength and will power to make better choices in our lives. It is through faith, prayer, and calling upon God that we will receive the blessings in our lives to have the strength to do hard things and make good choices.
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Sunday Lesson: Mar 19th
How Mighty a Thing is Prayer
President Hinckley stated, “None of us can really make it alone. We need help, the kind of help that can come in answer to prayer.” President Hinckley taught that nothing is too simple to counsel with the Lord about, and that as we pray we will develop a closer relationship with Father in Heaven. If we want a closer relationship, we need to do our part!
President Hinckley said that one key to prayer is remembering that we are children of God, and that He knows and loves each of us. Even though God is the creator and the greatest of all, He listens to our prayers! We discussed that because of this relationship, prayer is a special opportunity to talk to someone who really cares and understands. One person commented that we can tell our problems to Him when we can’t or don’t want to tell anyone else.
In the World Wide Youth event on March 4, 2017, President Eyring and Elder Holland had a discussion and shared about the conversation of prayer. President Eyring said to remember that although God is very close to us and is listening, sometimes there are long silences when we seek Him in prayer. Part of our earthly experience includes learning to ask and wait in faith for the answers to come. They also taught that we need to make sure that we are not too casual in our prayers. We show respect to God when we take time to pray and compose our thoughts, allowing time for pondering. Not all prayers need to be this way, but we show respect as we take the effort to make some prayers more formal.
The teacher suggested that we do a self-assessment of our prayers to see areas where we could improve. How often do we pray? How much faith do we have in prayers? How do we pray; vocally, on our knees, alone and with family? Do we remember when our prayers are answered and record it?
President Hinckley taught that family prayer has miraculous results over time. We discussed that through family prayer we teach respect, gratitude, faith, hope, compassion, obedience, humility, repentance, that we can solve our problems by turning to God, and that Heavenly Father is important and will be there for us. As we pray with and for our families, miracles will happen.
We all can improve our personal prayers and make a new commitment to improve in one or two areas. Let us commit to coming closer to God and letting God be our friend through speaking to Him in prayer.
President Hinckley stated, “None of us can really make it alone. We need help, the kind of help that can come in answer to prayer.” President Hinckley taught that nothing is too simple to counsel with the Lord about, and that as we pray we will develop a closer relationship with Father in Heaven. If we want a closer relationship, we need to do our part!
President Hinckley said that one key to prayer is remembering that we are children of God, and that He knows and loves each of us. Even though God is the creator and the greatest of all, He listens to our prayers! We discussed that because of this relationship, prayer is a special opportunity to talk to someone who really cares and understands. One person commented that we can tell our problems to Him when we can’t or don’t want to tell anyone else.
In the World Wide Youth event on March 4, 2017, President Eyring and Elder Holland had a discussion and shared about the conversation of prayer. President Eyring said to remember that although God is very close to us and is listening, sometimes there are long silences when we seek Him in prayer. Part of our earthly experience includes learning to ask and wait in faith for the answers to come. They also taught that we need to make sure that we are not too casual in our prayers. We show respect to God when we take time to pray and compose our thoughts, allowing time for pondering. Not all prayers need to be this way, but we show respect as we take the effort to make some prayers more formal.
The teacher suggested that we do a self-assessment of our prayers to see areas where we could improve. How often do we pray? How much faith do we have in prayers? How do we pray; vocally, on our knees, alone and with family? Do we remember when our prayers are answered and record it?
President Hinckley taught that family prayer has miraculous results over time. We discussed that through family prayer we teach respect, gratitude, faith, hope, compassion, obedience, humility, repentance, that we can solve our problems by turning to God, and that Heavenly Father is important and will be there for us. As we pray with and for our families, miracles will happen.
We all can improve our personal prayers and make a new commitment to improve in one or two areas. Let us commit to coming closer to God and letting God be our friend through speaking to Him in prayer.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Sunday Lesson: Mar 12th
Daughters of God
Gordon B. Hinckley wanted women to understand their divine nature and attributes, and their importance in God’s plan. He wanted women to remember that they are literally daughters of God so that they chose to take control of their lives and seek to fulfill their divine potential.
When Relief Society was organized by the Prophet Joseph Smith, he taught, “If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.” President Hinckley reminded the sisters that God’s plan cannot succeed without women. God loves us and will not leave us alone. We discussed that we need to remember what God thinks of us instead of using the world’s standard of beauty or other outward achievements of give ourselves value.
We studied section 25 of the Doctrine and Covenants and discussed how this revelation applies to us as well as to Emma Smith. A few of the things we learned were that we are each an elect lady that has been called to serve in various capacities, God wants us to learn and receive our education as well as to study the things of God, and we are to cleave to the covenants we have made. As we do these things we will be worthy of all that God desires to bless us with.
Next, we discussed President Hinckley’s teaching on the importance of mothers. He said, “The true strength of any nation, society, or family lies in those qualities of character that have been acquired for the most part by children taught in the quiet, simple everyday manner of mothers.” Although it may seem simple, as mothers teach children to pray, to read the scriptures, and to keep all the commandments of God they will learn to also follow these patterns in their lives.
Women are expected to be leaders in the church and in the world to build the kingdom of God on the earth. We all teach and help strengthen the faith of others. We have great responsibly to do our best to fulfill our callings and work together to help God’s children be worthy of eternal life.
The teacher bore her testimony of the power of the Relief Society to lift and bless. President Hinckley taught that through Relief Society, many have been filled with joy through acts of service and sisterhood. Faith is strengthened as sisters quietly serve and lift where they can.
In closing, President Hinckley urged us to remember who we are and to work together to help the world understand the importance of values and virtue. We have great power to accomplish good. As we exercise faith in God and use our God-given abilities, we will make the world a better place.
Gordon B. Hinckley wanted women to understand their divine nature and attributes, and their importance in God’s plan. He wanted women to remember that they are literally daughters of God so that they chose to take control of their lives and seek to fulfill their divine potential.
When Relief Society was organized by the Prophet Joseph Smith, he taught, “If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.” President Hinckley reminded the sisters that God’s plan cannot succeed without women. God loves us and will not leave us alone. We discussed that we need to remember what God thinks of us instead of using the world’s standard of beauty or other outward achievements of give ourselves value.
We studied section 25 of the Doctrine and Covenants and discussed how this revelation applies to us as well as to Emma Smith. A few of the things we learned were that we are each an elect lady that has been called to serve in various capacities, God wants us to learn and receive our education as well as to study the things of God, and we are to cleave to the covenants we have made. As we do these things we will be worthy of all that God desires to bless us with.
Next, we discussed President Hinckley’s teaching on the importance of mothers. He said, “The true strength of any nation, society, or family lies in those qualities of character that have been acquired for the most part by children taught in the quiet, simple everyday manner of mothers.” Although it may seem simple, as mothers teach children to pray, to read the scriptures, and to keep all the commandments of God they will learn to also follow these patterns in their lives.
Women are expected to be leaders in the church and in the world to build the kingdom of God on the earth. We all teach and help strengthen the faith of others. We have great responsibly to do our best to fulfill our callings and work together to help God’s children be worthy of eternal life.
The teacher bore her testimony of the power of the Relief Society to lift and bless. President Hinckley taught that through Relief Society, many have been filled with joy through acts of service and sisterhood. Faith is strengthened as sisters quietly serve and lift where they can.
In closing, President Hinckley urged us to remember who we are and to work together to help the world understand the importance of values and virtue. We have great power to accomplish good. As we exercise faith in God and use our God-given abilities, we will make the world a better place.
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Mar 5th
For our lesson this Sunday we studied the talk “Abide in My Love” by Elder D. Todd. Christofferson. There are many people that struggle to feel God’s divine love. Elder Christofferson taught, “God’s love is infinite and it will endure forever, but what it means for each of us depends on how we respond to His love.” We discussed some of the things we should do to abide in God’s love and feel close to Him.
We started by breaking into groups and sharing what we learned from the scriptures. From Moses 7:28-33 we learn that God loves us all the time but gave us our agency to choose whether we will love Him and others. We learned from various scriptures that the way for us to feel God’s love is to repent and keep His commandments, and by so doing become converted. The atonement was accomplished as an act of love, but we must use it to feel God’s love in our lives. The scriptures also teach that as we abide in God’s love, we will feel chastened. God chastens us to help us learn and improve (see Hebrews 12:5-11).
Elder Christofferson then explained that the story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan is similar to our experience with abiding in God’s love. Helen became very sick as a child and lost her vision and hearing. As time went on, she became very out of control and her parents hired Anne Sullivan to come and be her teacher. Helen strongly resisted Anne at first, even hitting and biting her, but in time Helen trusted and came to love Anne. Elder Christofferson taught, “Similarly, as we come to trust rather than resist our divine Teacher, He can work with us to enlighten and lift us to a new reality.”
Anne knew Helen could contribute to the world despite her handicaps. God also wants us to become more than we would on our own. Elder Christofferson explained, “We may be quite content with what we have done in our lives and that we simply are what we are, while our Savior comprehends a glorious potential that we perceive only ‘through a glass, darkly.’”
We also discussed Mosiah 3:19, John 15:12, and 1 Corinthians 2:9 which teach us that if we abide in God’s love we will develop Christ like attributes and love others. Great blessings and eternal life come to those that love God.
God’s love is more than a nice feeling; it takes effort to keep the commandments and humility to be willing to accept the Lord’s chastening so we can become more than we are. By doing so, we will obtain our greatest potential and will also have peace, love and joy in the journey.
We started by breaking into groups and sharing what we learned from the scriptures. From Moses 7:28-33 we learn that God loves us all the time but gave us our agency to choose whether we will love Him and others. We learned from various scriptures that the way for us to feel God’s love is to repent and keep His commandments, and by so doing become converted. The atonement was accomplished as an act of love, but we must use it to feel God’s love in our lives. The scriptures also teach that as we abide in God’s love, we will feel chastened. God chastens us to help us learn and improve (see Hebrews 12:5-11).
Elder Christofferson then explained that the story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan is similar to our experience with abiding in God’s love. Helen became very sick as a child and lost her vision and hearing. As time went on, she became very out of control and her parents hired Anne Sullivan to come and be her teacher. Helen strongly resisted Anne at first, even hitting and biting her, but in time Helen trusted and came to love Anne. Elder Christofferson taught, “Similarly, as we come to trust rather than resist our divine Teacher, He can work with us to enlighten and lift us to a new reality.”
Anne knew Helen could contribute to the world despite her handicaps. God also wants us to become more than we would on our own. Elder Christofferson explained, “We may be quite content with what we have done in our lives and that we simply are what we are, while our Savior comprehends a glorious potential that we perceive only ‘through a glass, darkly.’”
We also discussed Mosiah 3:19, John 15:12, and 1 Corinthians 2:9 which teach us that if we abide in God’s love we will develop Christ like attributes and love others. Great blessings and eternal life come to those that love God.
God’s love is more than a nice feeling; it takes effort to keep the commandments and humility to be willing to accept the Lord’s chastening so we can become more than we are. By doing so, we will obtain our greatest potential and will also have peace, love and joy in the journey.
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Feb 26th
Teachings for our Times: Prayer
Sunday’s lesson was based on two conference talks that discussed the topic of prayer. The teacher started by asking us to ponder what prayer feels like. Carol F. McConkie shared in her talk from October 2016 General Conference entitled “The Soul’s Sincere Desire” that prayer can and should be a powerful force in our lives. It allows us to develop faith and opens the way for us to receive blessings from above. The amazing thing about prayer is that is a gift that is extended to everyone. Matt 7:7-8 reads, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
The power is in our hands. If we chose not to pray—for whatever reason—we cannot have the blessings associated with prayer. Imagine if Joseph Smith had not taken the time to pray that morning in 1805. Like Joseph, there are many blessings we can receive only as we pray in faith. Sister McConkie said, “For us, miraculous healing, powerful protection, divine knowledge, liberating forgiveness, and precious peace are among the answers that come when we offer up a “soul’s sincere desire” in faith.”
The most powerful example of prayer is our Savior, Jesus Christ. He entered that garden of Gethsemane, feeling so much pain and agony. Three times he prayed that the cup be removed, but each time He also prayed, “Father, thy will be done.” We know that cup was not removed from Him, but as Sister McConkie teaches, “He was strengthened to go forward and fulfill His divine mission to prepare for our salvation”.
Have we ever likewise pleaded that a burden be removed and it was not? How did we feel? Angry? Abandoned? Doubtful? We need to remember at these times that sometimes we will not be removed from a trial we face but we can receive strength and comfort to endure. These blessings will come through faithful prayer, seeking the Lord’s will.
Sincere prayer is a great blessing but it will take the effort. Through this gift we can draw closer to our Father in Heaven. Remember He is listening, as Elder Uceda states in his talk, “The Lord Jesus Christ Teaches Us to Pray”, the very moment we begin to pray. Come to Him in prayer, because He will always listen and will shower peace and blessings up on us as we reach out to him with sincerity and humility.
Sunday’s lesson was based on two conference talks that discussed the topic of prayer. The teacher started by asking us to ponder what prayer feels like. Carol F. McConkie shared in her talk from October 2016 General Conference entitled “The Soul’s Sincere Desire” that prayer can and should be a powerful force in our lives. It allows us to develop faith and opens the way for us to receive blessings from above. The amazing thing about prayer is that is a gift that is extended to everyone. Matt 7:7-8 reads, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
The power is in our hands. If we chose not to pray—for whatever reason—we cannot have the blessings associated with prayer. Imagine if Joseph Smith had not taken the time to pray that morning in 1805. Like Joseph, there are many blessings we can receive only as we pray in faith. Sister McConkie said, “For us, miraculous healing, powerful protection, divine knowledge, liberating forgiveness, and precious peace are among the answers that come when we offer up a “soul’s sincere desire” in faith.”
The most powerful example of prayer is our Savior, Jesus Christ. He entered that garden of Gethsemane, feeling so much pain and agony. Three times he prayed that the cup be removed, but each time He also prayed, “Father, thy will be done.” We know that cup was not removed from Him, but as Sister McConkie teaches, “He was strengthened to go forward and fulfill His divine mission to prepare for our salvation”.
Have we ever likewise pleaded that a burden be removed and it was not? How did we feel? Angry? Abandoned? Doubtful? We need to remember at these times that sometimes we will not be removed from a trial we face but we can receive strength and comfort to endure. These blessings will come through faithful prayer, seeking the Lord’s will.
Sincere prayer is a great blessing but it will take the effort. Through this gift we can draw closer to our Father in Heaven. Remember He is listening, as Elder Uceda states in his talk, “The Lord Jesus Christ Teaches Us to Pray”, the very moment we begin to pray. Come to Him in prayer, because He will always listen and will shower peace and blessings up on us as we reach out to him with sincerity and humility.
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Feb 19th
The Pioneer Heritage of Faith and Sacrifice
President Hinckley taught often about our pioneer heritage. He wanted members of the church to learn from the examples of faith and sacrifice in our church history. He taught that “pioneering continues to go on…You are pioneers in carrying forward the work of the Lord”. By learning about the lives and sacrifice of the pioneers, we can be motivated to also be pioneers in our own situations by accepting and living the Gospel.
The pioneers were willing to do the hard things they did; such as leaving behind their homes over and over to face the unknown, because of their faith. They desired to practice their religion without persecution. Their faith allowed them to continue on even in the most difficult circumstances. President Hinckley taught, “We need so very, very much a strong burning of that faith in the living God and in his living, resurrected Son, for this was the great, moving faith of our gospel forebears.”
The teacher then shared a pioneer quilt that had been made for her. The quilt was made to remember the pioneers and the attributes they had. Among these attributes were tears, perseverance, joy, courage, obedience, hope, grace, family, love, vision, and prophecy. We discussed each of these principles; why they were important for the pioneers and why each of us also need to cultivate these principles and be pioneers in our own situations.
Tears-remember we all have trials, we should turn to God at our hardest times.
Courage- to make a change for the better.
Obedience- faith without works is dead. Let us be obedient to God’s commandments so we can receive the blessings that come through the Spirit.
Grace-remember we can’t do it without God, he is always there for us.This gave them purpose in moving forward.
The pioneers sacrificed so much because of their faith in God. As we remember their example we can also do great things and be pioneers in our own circumstances through faith.
President Hinckley taught often about our pioneer heritage. He wanted members of the church to learn from the examples of faith and sacrifice in our church history. He taught that “pioneering continues to go on…You are pioneers in carrying forward the work of the Lord”. By learning about the lives and sacrifice of the pioneers, we can be motivated to also be pioneers in our own situations by accepting and living the Gospel.
The pioneers were willing to do the hard things they did; such as leaving behind their homes over and over to face the unknown, because of their faith. They desired to practice their religion without persecution. Their faith allowed them to continue on even in the most difficult circumstances. President Hinckley taught, “We need so very, very much a strong burning of that faith in the living God and in his living, resurrected Son, for this was the great, moving faith of our gospel forebears.”
The teacher then shared a pioneer quilt that had been made for her. The quilt was made to remember the pioneers and the attributes they had. Among these attributes were tears, perseverance, joy, courage, obedience, hope, grace, family, love, vision, and prophecy. We discussed each of these principles; why they were important for the pioneers and why each of us also need to cultivate these principles and be pioneers in our own situations.
Tears-remember we all have trials, we should turn to God at our hardest times.
Courage- to make a change for the better.
Obedience- faith without works is dead. Let us be obedient to God’s commandments so we can receive the blessings that come through the Spirit.
Grace-remember we can’t do it without God, he is always there for us.This gave them purpose in moving forward.
The pioneers sacrificed so much because of their faith in God. As we remember their example we can also do great things and be pioneers in our own circumstances through faith.
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Feb 12th
Cultivating an Attitude of Happiness and a Spirit of Optimism
President Hinckley grew up in a home where his parents taught the children to be optimistic. His mother often said that everyone was responsible for their own happiness, and that a happy attitude and smile would help get through trials. President Hinckley learned from his parents and taught throughout his life that each day should and can be a great day in our lives.
President Hinckley and his wife Marjorie lived in the present instead of wasting time worrying about the past or future. Elder Ballard recalled President’s Hinckley’s attitude that “things will work out”. They kept perspective and kept trying during the good and difficult times.
We live in a world where there is negativity and sin all around us which can cause a pessimistic attitude. We discussed that challenges and trials are real and a major part of mortal life, and it can be easy to focus on those things and get down. President Hinckley taught some tools to remain optimistic, even through our trials.
First, President Hinckley said that we need to look harder for the good and positive things in our lives. We should look for the beauties of nature around us, see the good in our family members and others, and remember the blessings that come from a testimony of the Gospel. Optimism takes faith and perspective.We discussed that keeping the Spirit in our lives and homes is another way to remain optimistic. We need take care of ourselves physically and spiritually so we can have the Spirit. We also need to set boundaries on the negative influences in the world so the Spirit can be present.
Second, President Hinckley taught that happiness comes as we are grateful for our blessings. Each one of us are very blessed. We should count our blessings and be sure to thank God for them before we ask for more blessings or ask that our hardships be taken away.
Third, President Hinckley reminded us that gladness and joy come because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our Heavenly Father gave us the Plan of Happiness, and we are blessed to know that there is eternal purpose to our mortal life. President Hinckley encouraged us to be grateful for every part of the journey and understand that there will be ups and downs as part of our mortal experience. Through the Gospel we have the perspective to find joy in the journey.
Lastly, President Hinckley said that optimism comes through understanding that we are children of God. He said that there is no greater truth that that “we have something of divinity in us.” It causes us to believe that we can do great things and overcome obstacles.
In conclusion, President Hinckley taught, “Stand a little taller, rise a little higher, be a little better. Make the extra effort. You will be happier. You will know a new satisfaction, a new gladness in your heart.” Although problems will arise, President Hinckley’s message for us is to enjoy life rather to simply endure it.
President Hinckley grew up in a home where his parents taught the children to be optimistic. His mother often said that everyone was responsible for their own happiness, and that a happy attitude and smile would help get through trials. President Hinckley learned from his parents and taught throughout his life that each day should and can be a great day in our lives.
President Hinckley and his wife Marjorie lived in the present instead of wasting time worrying about the past or future. Elder Ballard recalled President’s Hinckley’s attitude that “things will work out”. They kept perspective and kept trying during the good and difficult times.
We live in a world where there is negativity and sin all around us which can cause a pessimistic attitude. We discussed that challenges and trials are real and a major part of mortal life, and it can be easy to focus on those things and get down. President Hinckley taught some tools to remain optimistic, even through our trials.
First, President Hinckley said that we need to look harder for the good and positive things in our lives. We should look for the beauties of nature around us, see the good in our family members and others, and remember the blessings that come from a testimony of the Gospel. Optimism takes faith and perspective.We discussed that keeping the Spirit in our lives and homes is another way to remain optimistic. We need take care of ourselves physically and spiritually so we can have the Spirit. We also need to set boundaries on the negative influences in the world so the Spirit can be present.
Second, President Hinckley taught that happiness comes as we are grateful for our blessings. Each one of us are very blessed. We should count our blessings and be sure to thank God for them before we ask for more blessings or ask that our hardships be taken away.
Third, President Hinckley reminded us that gladness and joy come because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Our Heavenly Father gave us the Plan of Happiness, and we are blessed to know that there is eternal purpose to our mortal life. President Hinckley encouraged us to be grateful for every part of the journey and understand that there will be ups and downs as part of our mortal experience. Through the Gospel we have the perspective to find joy in the journey.
Lastly, President Hinckley said that optimism comes through understanding that we are children of God. He said that there is no greater truth that that “we have something of divinity in us.” It causes us to believe that we can do great things and overcome obstacles.
In conclusion, President Hinckley taught, “Stand a little taller, rise a little higher, be a little better. Make the extra effort. You will be happier. You will know a new satisfaction, a new gladness in your heart.” Although problems will arise, President Hinckley’s message for us is to enjoy life rather to simply endure it.
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Feb 5th
The purpose of the Relief Society is to prepare women for the blessings of eternal life, it is a temporal and spiritual work. That
is what the women did in the Savior’s day, and that is what we continue to do. The Relief Society is not just another group of women trying to do good in
the world. It is different. It was ‘something better’ because it was organized
under priesthood authority. Its organization was a necessary step in the
unfolding of God’s work on earth. In order for us
to not be just another group of women trying to do good in the world, we have
to be different. We have to BE that
someone better. That happens as we work on ourselves as individuals.
In 3 Ne 27:27
Christ is teaching the apostles. He is speaking and says, “What manner of men {women} ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am."
President
Benson says, This is a challenge for any person! He is a member of the
Godhead. He is the Savior and Redeemer. Pres. Benson asks, is it possible for us
to be even as He is? Yes, he says. Not only can we, but that is our charge, our
responsibility. He would not give us that commandment if He did not mean for us
to do it.
The Apostle Peter teaches that knowing about God
and knowing God are not the same, and that a true
knowledge of God requires that we become
like him.
2 Peter 1:5-7 Peter teaches us
what we need to do
5 And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your
faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
6 And to knowledge temperance; and to
temperance patience; and to patience godliness;
7 And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to
brotherly kindness charity.
We broke up into 5 groups and discussed some of the
attributes outlined by Peter. These attributes are part of the Savior’s character. We
need to learn and emulate these if we want to know him and be more like Him. See Preach My Gospel to learn more about these attributes and their meanings.
We were encouraged to pick one of these attributes to study more about and work on. Not to be overwhelmed with all of them at one time. Study what it means. Look in the bible dictionary. Look up scriptures. Spend time working on it and praying for help. Christlike attributes are gifts from God.
They come as you use your agency righteously. Ask your Heavenly Father to bless
you with these attributes; you cannot develop them without His help. With a
desire to please God, recognize your weaknesses and be willing and anxious to
improve.
Monday, January 30, 2017
Sunday, Jan 29th
Today during third hour we had a representative from Stake Public Affairs come and speak to us. She encouraged us to be involved in our communities. This includes our schools, knowing our neighbors, and serving where we can. We were also encouraged to be involved politically and work to persevere religious freedoms and other rights. The website JUSTSERVE.org has been updated and has many opportunities very close to our homes. Each of us can make a difference as we are involved and allow those in our community to get to know us and what we stand for.
- Karen
- Karen
Monday, January 23, 2017
Sunday Lesson, Jan 22nd
For this week’s lesson, the teacher mostly focused on the General Conference talk by Carole M. Stephens, “The Master Healer”. Sister Stephens started by saying, “We need women who have a bedrock understanding of the doctrine of Christ.” She went on to read from 2 Nephi 31:19-21 which reminds us that the doctrine of Christ includes faith, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, being steadfast in Christ, having hope, loving of God and all men, and enduring to the end. Living these principles helps us develop greater love for our Savior as we realize that He is our foundation.
Sister Stephens then described three ways our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can be deepened as we endure adversity. These experiences can refine and bless us.
1. “The Savior, the Master Healer, has the power to change our hearts and give us permanent relief from the sorrow caused by our own sin.” Our Savior’s promise is simple and merciful, as long as we come unto Him with a teachable and humble heart, He will meet us where we are. He can change us so that we can go forward as stronger individuals. Elder Renlund, in his conference talk, reminded us “repentance is not only possible but also joyful because of the Savior.”
2. “The Master Healer can comfort and strengthen us when we experience pain because of the unrighteous actions of others.” Many feel guilty and ashamed and want to hide the painful things that have happened to them, but this will not bring healing. Hope and healing will return to our lives as we turn to Jesus Christ and invite His love into our lives.
She quoted the talk Elder Richard G. Scott gave in the October General Conference of 2002. He said, “When you have done what is reasonable to help one you love, lay the burden at the feet of the Savior…As you so act, not only will you find peace but will demonstrate your faith in the power of the Savior to lift the burden of sin from a loved one through his repentance and obedience…Complete healing will come through your faith in Jesus Christ and His power and capacity, through the Atonement, to heal the scars of that which is unjust and undeserved.”
3. “The Master Healer can comfort and sustain us as we experience painful realities of mortality such as disaster, mental illness, disease, chronic pain, and death.” The pain we feel in mortality as we see loved ones suffer can be very painful. She reminded us that when we feel we want to take away the suffering of others, we can look to our Savior who has suffered all things and can lift and help all those who will turn to Him.
Sister Stephens closed by pleading with us not to suffer alone. If we will come to our Savior, Jesus Christ, He will heal us and take away our pain.
Sister Stephens then described three ways our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can be deepened as we endure adversity. These experiences can refine and bless us.
1. “The Savior, the Master Healer, has the power to change our hearts and give us permanent relief from the sorrow caused by our own sin.” Our Savior’s promise is simple and merciful, as long as we come unto Him with a teachable and humble heart, He will meet us where we are. He can change us so that we can go forward as stronger individuals. Elder Renlund, in his conference talk, reminded us “repentance is not only possible but also joyful because of the Savior.”
2. “The Master Healer can comfort and strengthen us when we experience pain because of the unrighteous actions of others.” Many feel guilty and ashamed and want to hide the painful things that have happened to them, but this will not bring healing. Hope and healing will return to our lives as we turn to Jesus Christ and invite His love into our lives.
She quoted the talk Elder Richard G. Scott gave in the October General Conference of 2002. He said, “When you have done what is reasonable to help one you love, lay the burden at the feet of the Savior…As you so act, not only will you find peace but will demonstrate your faith in the power of the Savior to lift the burden of sin from a loved one through his repentance and obedience…Complete healing will come through your faith in Jesus Christ and His power and capacity, through the Atonement, to heal the scars of that which is unjust and undeserved.”
3. “The Master Healer can comfort and sustain us as we experience painful realities of mortality such as disaster, mental illness, disease, chronic pain, and death.” The pain we feel in mortality as we see loved ones suffer can be very painful. She reminded us that when we feel we want to take away the suffering of others, we can look to our Savior who has suffered all things and can lift and help all those who will turn to Him.
Sister Stephens closed by pleading with us not to suffer alone. If we will come to our Savior, Jesus Christ, He will heal us and take away our pain.
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