President Thomas S. Monson: Until We Meet Again

Brothers and sisters, my challenge has come to an end. I have read and reflected on each of the talks presented in the September and October sessions of General Conference. I have had an amazing time as I have studied the word of the Lord that was shared through His choosen servants.

The words of those men and women are filled with beauty and truth. Heavenly Father guided and inspired them to share these messages with us because He loves us. He wants us to return home to Him in the Celestial Kingdom. He wants to bless us with the knowlege and peace that can help us on our path.

Fulfilling this challenge has been difficult. I often let my day become overcrowded and complicated by the business of living. But I must, we must, make time for the Lord everyday of our lives.

I now challenge you to study and ponder these talks and the truths within them. If you do, these lessons will enter into your heart and bring you closer to God.

President Thomas S. Monson: Until We Meet Again

Read or watch the closing remarks here

I will end with a quote from Presiden Monson's closing remarks. These words seem to touch on the heart of his final message. "May we return to our homes with a resolve in our hearts to be a little better than we have been in the past. May we be a little kinder and more thoughtful. May we reach out in helpfulness, not only to our fellow members but also to those who are not of our faith. As we associate with them, may we show our respect for them."

Brothers and sisters, this is my prayer for you: each day resolve to be a little better. The task might seem impossible but you are not alone. 

Thank you for following me on this journey. 

Elder David A. Bednar: Come and See

This was a sweet talk about why we, members of the Church, want to share the gospel with the world. You have to read it.

Elder David A. Bednar: Come and See

Read or watch the full talk here

According to Elder Bednar, "members of the Savior’s Church have accepted the solemn obligation to assist in fulfilling the divine commission given by the Lord to His Apostles." That commission is to spread the gospel to all of His children. 

This was a wonderful reminder to me. Covenants truly are a solemn obligation. I've never thought about my Baptism in these terms so reading this talk deepened my understanding of the seriousness of that obligation. I've always known I wanted to share my testimony with others but I I think that now I have a better understanding of why I've felt that way.

The gospel is just so beautiful. It has brought such comfort and understanding into my life. I can't imagine living without these truths. Brothers and sister, don't be offended when someone opens their heart to share their faith with you. It is an act of love. 

I join with other members of the Church, including Prophets and Apostles, and I invite you to test the message of the gospel. You can know that it is true if you pray with an open heart. 

During his talk, Elder Bednar tried to explain why members of the Church feel driven to share the gospel. He said that "we as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have felt the anguish associated with spiritual uncertainty and sin. We also have experienced the cleansing, the peace of conscience, the spiritual healing and renewal, and the guidance that are obtained only by learning and living the principles of the Savior’s gospel."

I hope and pray that you will take this invitation. The gospel can bring peace and joy into your life. Becoming a member doesn't mean your life will be easy, but you can find peace amidst your trials. You just have to open your heart to hear the the confirming witness of the Holy Ghost. 

Elder Larry S. Kacher: Triffle Not with Sacred Things

Elder Larry S. Kacher: Triffle Not with Sacred Things

Read or watch the full talk here

During his talk, Elder Kacher shared a story about a time when he was caught in a rip tide and feared death. He used this story to teach us about the existance of unseen currents in our lives. According to Elder Kacher, "there are many currents in this earthly life—some safe and others not. President Spencer W. Kimball taught that there are powerful forces in our own lives much like the unseen currents of the ocean. These forces are real. We should never ignore them."

He then went on to declare that while there are dangerous currents trying to pull out us to sea, there is also the divine current of the gospel. Brothers and sister, we can trust that current. We may not always understand it, but we can rely on it. 

Elder Kacher explained it by quoting President Tanner; "I learned 'how much wiser and better it is for man to accept the simple truths of the gospel … and to accept by faith those things which he … cannot understand'"

Brothers and sisters, we have to trust the Lord. We may not understand everything He does, or every gospel principle or practice, but we can still know the gospel is true. We can ask quetions and search for answers and we can have faith that one day we will understand all.

Until then, trust in the Lord. He is your Heavenly Father and He loves you. 

Elder Hugo E. Martinez: Our Personal Ministries

It is getting late, so this post will be short. 

Elder Hugo E. Martinez: Our Personal Ministries 

Read or watch the full talk here

“He who serves in some thing is good for something; he who serves in no thing is good for nothing.” Elder Martinez shared these inspired words with the church. They are the words of Brother Udine Falabella and they are a wonderful reminder that we, all of us, need to serve our fellow men. 

According to Elder Martinez, "every individual needs to be ministered to." The way we do that is "discovering needs, then tending to them."

This might not always be easy. A lot of people hide their needs, but we need to pay attention. If we prayerfully ask for the opportunity to serve, the Spirit will show us what to do. We must do this because every child of God deserves to know that they are cared for and loved. They each, we each, deserve to know that someone is watching out for us. Our charge, accoring to Elder Martinez, is to "make good use of [our] moral agency." 

We can do this, brothers and sister. Remember, we are not alone. 

Elder Allan F. Packer: The Book

The writer in me can't help but like the title of this talk.

Elder Allan F. Packer: The Book

Read or watch the full talk here

The book that Elder Packer is talking about is the "book containing the records of our dead." The point he is making, brothers and sisters, is that we all need to complete our family history and temple work. 

I have to admit that Elder Packer overwhelmed me for a moment at the beginning of his talk. He said, "we must work on all of the requirements for exhaultation." The word "all" was a difficult one to read. Elder Packer's words are completely true, but it made me think of all the many things that I need to be better at. Thankfully he then reminded us that "qualifying for exhaultation becames a quest of a lifetime." 

Brothers and sister, you do not have to be overwhelmed. We are all imperfect beings. We all have many areas in which we need to improve. The point, in Elder Packer's words, is that "we must be willing to change."

The good news is that we don't have to do it on our own. Heavenly Father is there for us. Christ is there for us. Even our fellow brothers and sisters are there for us. If you think about it, everything about the gospel is designed to bring us home. We can do it. We just have to keep trying. We have to endure to the end.

According to President Spencer W. Kimball, who Elder Packer quoted, "our success individually and as a church, will largely be determined by how faithfully we focus on living the gospel in the home." We can all do this. I promise you that if you keep Christ in the center of your life amazing things can happen. Doing this will not always be easy, but you can do it. 

Ok, there is one final thought that I have to share with you. At the end of his talk, Elder Packer referenced a promise that Elder Bednar made: "I invite the young people of the church to learn about and experience the Spirit of Elijah ... I promise [that] you will be protected against the intensifying influence of the adversary. As you participate in and love this holy work, you will be safe guarded in your youth and throughout your lives."

I don't know about you, but that is a promise I want to take advantage of. 

Elder Carlos A. Godoy: The Lord Has a Plan for Us

Ooooh. This was a really good talk. I can't wait to read it again.

Elder Carlos A. Godoy: The Lord Has a Plan for Us

Read or watch the full talk here

I am most definitely a fan of Elder Godoy. All of the talks shared in General Conference have been wonderful, but this is the one that touched my heart the most. 

The starting point of Elder Godoy's talk is a conversation he had with a friend several years ago. At that time in his life things were going pretty well. Things were going so well, in fact, that Elder Godoy didn't realize he needed to make a change. Understanding came when his friend asked him this question: "Carlos, everything seems to be going well for you, your family, your career, and your service in the Church, but ... if you continue to live as you are living, will the blessings promised in your patriarchal blessing be fulfilled?”

Wow, That is simply a beautiful question. 

It is also one that we need to ask ourselves regularly. The answer will help us to distinguish the difference between more than what is right and what is wrong. It will help us know the difference between what is good for us to do with what is best for us to do. 

Elder Godoy offered three principles to help us consider our own personal answer to this perplexing question. 

Principle One: Keep the "best" end goal in mind. 
The best and only end goal that matters is reaching the Celestial Kingdom with our family. We must always keep that end in mind. 

Principle Two: Be prepared for the challenges that will come. 
Remember, life is a test. It isn't supposed to be easy. You can do it.

Principle Three: Share this vision with the people you love. 
Your decisions imapct those around you. Facing the challenges between you and your end goal will be easier if you have the support of your loved ones. 

Thank you, ELder Godoy, for your powerful words. 

Brothers and sisters, I know that we can all make the better choice. We just need to remember that we are not alone. Heavenly Father is watching over us. He wants to help us. We don't have to be afraid to pursue our best future. 

Elder Richard G. Scott: Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority

The cold continues so I'll keep this short.

Elder Richard G. Scott: Make the Exercise of Faith Your First Priority

Read or watch the full talk here

One of the helpful reminders that Elder Scott provided in his talk is the truth that we must have opposition in this life. We cannot appreciate, or understand happiness until we have experienced saddness. It is also true that we cannot find peace until we have been surrounded by turmoil. (Or, unfortunately, health without sickness.)

Brothers and sisters, I know that isn't exactly what we want to hear. I mean who wants to experience saddness and turmoil? But it is for a purpose. Remember, we came to this earth to be tested. Hopefuly it will be easier to deal with those tests knowing that our challenges are there to help us grow.

Elder Scott had a few suggestions for how to successfully make it through our challenges. (1) Prayer, (2) scripture study, (3) family home evening, and (4) temple attendance.

I'll end with this quote from Elder Scott: "I am not suggesting that all of life's struggles will disapper as you do these things. We came to mortal life precisely to grow from trials and testing. Challenges help us become more like our Father in Heaven, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ makes it possible to endure those challenges. I testify that as we actively come unto Him, we can endure every temptation, every heartache, every challenge we face, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

Elder Russell M. Ballard: Stay in the Boat and Hold On!

Today I am writing about the first talk of the last session of General Conference. I can't believe I have made it this far. I know it might not seem like much, but sticking with this challenge has been difficult but rewarding. It's easy to get distracted by everything going on in my life, and then to hide away behind pointless distractions like television. But I know that taking the time each day to read God's word and to study His messages has blessed me emotionally and spiritually.

Elder Russell M. Ballard: Stay in the Boat and Hold On!

Read or watch the full talk here

The message behind this talk is basically the reason I gave myself this challenge and decided to fulfill it by writing this blog. As the title says we all need to "stay in the boat," we need to stay surrounded by the safety and protection of the gospel.

Elder Ballard put it this way: "the Lord in His goodness has provided help, including a boat, essential supplies such as life jackets, and experienced river guides who give guidance and safety instructions to help us make our way down the river of life to our final destination."

Brothers and sisters,  I don't know where exactly I'm headed. I finished grad school a few months ago and now I have to make some decisions about where I want to put my focus, or at least where I want to put my career focus. There are a lot of paths I could take and I don't want my decision to be driven by a lack of faith. Despite this confusion, I know that I need to keep my focus on the only destination that is worth anything. I know that I want to reach, and that I can reach, the Celestial Kingdon. Heavenly Father will help me get there, and He will help you get there. We just need to stay in the boat.

So, this is me, staying in the boat. I hope you'll join me.

President Thomas S. Monson: Ponder the Path of Thy Feet

I'm a little worn out today. My flight home from Colorado got in late. I think I'm going to have to re-read President Monson's talk again. But I do what to share a few thoughts about it. 

President Thomas S. Monson: Ponder the Path of Thy Feet

Read or watch the full talk here

According to President Monson, "the primary purposes of our existence upon the earth are to obtain a body of flesh and bones, to gain experience that could come only through separation from our heavenly parents, and to see if we would keep the commandments."

I don't know about you, but there are two things I love about President Monson's talks. First, he tells great stories. Second, he breaks things down nicely. This was a straightforward reminder about our purpose on earth. 

(1) Get a body.
(2) Experience a separation from our Heavenly parents.
(3) Prove we can keep the commandments.

That last part is a little easier said than done, but we can do it. Remember, proving we can keep the commandments is part of our whole purpose here on earth. If it's part of our purpose, Heavenly Father will have provided a way. That way includes prompitings from the Holy Ghost and the scriptures which provide course direction. That way also includes the atonement of Jesus Christ to make up for the mistakes we make. 

I'm exhausted and starting to fall alseep, so I will end with this quote from President Monson, "there is no higher end than this, that we should choose to accept His discipline and become His disciples and do His work throughout our lives. Nothing else, no other choice we make, can make of us what He can."

Brothers and sisters, always remember our ultimate purpose for being here. There are a lot of things we can do with our time here on earth. We need to choose wisely how we spend our time and where we place our focus. The goal is the Celestial Kingdom. Don't forget that. Heavenly Father will guide us there if we let Him. 

Elder James J. Hamula: The Sacrament and the Atonement

A few weeks ago I admitted that I got behind on this challenge when I went to visit my sister over the Veteran's Day weekend. It was understandable for me to be distracted, I was spending time with my family after all. But, I was determined not to get behind in my reading again.

I visited my sister again over the week of Thanksgiving and I am pleased to be able to say that I did much better this time. I don't know how productive I was over that week, but I did make sure to read a conference talk every night I was there. I also made sure I wrote about that talk, even if it was only briefly.

I am actually writing this response on an airplane as I head back home to California. For me, this talk was a wonderful reminder of the sacredness of the ordinance of the Sacrament.  I hope my thoughts are helpful to you.

Elder James J. Hamula:  The Sacrament and the Atonement

Read or watch the full talk here

According to Elder Hamula, participation in the sacrament as it is constituted today is a way we can signify our acceptance of Jesus as the Christ. It is also a way to signify our promise to follow him and keep his commandments.

The sacrament is one of the most holy ordinances performed in the church. We need to use it to remind ourselves of Christ and of the redemption he offers us.

One interesting detail Elder Hamula shared was the significance of the order of the sacrament. According to him, the bread is taken first to remind us that each of us will be resurrected, just as Christ was resurrected and returned to his body. We then partake of the water to remind us of the blood that Christ shed for us. This is supposed to remind us of the atoning sacrifice he made and through which we can be made clean and return home. This order is significant because resurrection is not the same as redemption.

Brothers and sisters, the ordinance of the sacrament constitutes a solemn commitment and covenant. We must seriously honor this commitment by reverently and actively participating in this ordinance. In the future, I will strive to do this by remembering the added detail Elder Hamula provided about what the bread and the water signify. I will also continue to strive to live as a true disciple of Christ, whose name we take upon ourselves when we partake of this sacred ordinance. 

Elder Robert D. Hales: Eteral Life - to Know Our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ

I'm still feeling a little under the weather, so I will keep this short. Please read Elder Hales' words. They are beautiful.

Elder Robert D. Hales: Eteral Life - to Know Our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ

Read or watch the full talk here

For me, the main message behind this talk is a true understanding of the godhead. Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are two seperate beings. They are united, not in physical form, but in purpose. And their purpose is "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of mankind."

The introductory text says it all: "God and Christ are literally a Father and a Son- separate, distinct, individual beings who are wholly unifed in Their purpose."

I feel blessed to understand this truth because it helps me to better understand God. Not only is He Christ's father, but He is my Heavenly Father. He loves me as He loves all of His children. 

Brothers and sisters, family is the most important thing in this life. As we live, as we move forward in our earthly existence, we must do all that we can to honor our families. 

Sister Carol F. McConkie: Live According to the Words of the Prophets

A lot of the talks in this session seem to touch on the importance of following the prophets and apostles.  I know that I am far, far, far, from perfect, but I do strive to follow the council sent by God through his chosen servants. My prayer, for me and for you, is to become a better disciple by more consistently and immediately acting on this council.

Sister Carol F. McConkie: Live According to the Words of the Prophets

Read or watch the full talk here

During her talk, Sister McConkie brought up the story from the bible when the destitue widow woman was counciled by the Prophet Elijah to provide him with a meal. For most of us this wouldn't be a big deal, but for the widow woman that one meal was everything. It was literarly all the food that she had for herself and her young child.

This story amazes me. I have to admit that I don't know if I would have the faith to obey as that sister did. She had nothing to give and was expecting to die. I suppose that being that close to an expected death would change my perspective, but she also had a child to care for. I do not have children of my own so I cannot completely understand the protective instinct that comes with parenthood, but I've had hints of this feeling with my niece and nephew, and even with my students. I can't imagine taking life sustaining food away from a starving child.

As I said before, heavenly council doesn't always make sense. The widow woman chose the right course when she obeyed Elijah's council and shared the litle she had. She saved herself and her child with her faith. Such faith is truly amazing. While I never want to be presented with that particular dilema, I do hope to have the same faith with the dilemas I will face.

I will end with this quote from Sister McConkie's talk: "we heed prophetic word even when it may seem unreasonable, inconvenient, and uncomfortable. According to the world's standards, following the prophet may be unpopular, politically incorrect, or socially unacceptable. But following the prophet is always right."

Thank you for your council, Sister McConkie.

Elder Russel M. Nelson: Sustaining the Prophets

I'm not feeling great tonight. I seem to be coming down with some kind of head cold. So, I'll keep it simple and pray that my words make sense.

Elder Russel M. Nelson: Sustaining the Prophets

Read or watch the full talk here

In his talk, Elder Nelson quoted President Joseph F. Smith, who said "it is an important duty resting upon Saints who ... sustain the authorities of the Church, to do so not only by the lifting of the hand, the mere form, but in deed and in truth."

Brothers and sisters, it is a priviledge to be able to sustain God's chosen leaders. We must honor God for this priviledge by truly sustaining the Prophets and Apostles. Like every other aspect of the church, we can't just pretend, we must act in faith. We must follow their council.

Think about what you have learned and felt as you have read the conference talks from October. You, and I must act on the prompting we have received. That is how we honor Heavenly Father, and that is how we sustain the prophets.

As Elder Nelson said, we must remember that we do not vote about who will lead the church. God calls His chosen leaders and we sustain them.

I'll end this quick post with another quote that Elder Nelson shared. This one comes from President George Albert Smith. He said it 26 years before he was called to be the Prophet. "The obligation that we make when we raise our hands ... is a most sacred one. It does not mean that we will go quietly on our way and be willing that the prophet of the Lord shall direct this work, but it means ... that we will stand behind him; we will pray for him; we will defend his good name, and we will strive to carry out his instructions as the Lord shall direct."

Brothers and sisters, personal revelation is available for each of us. Just as we need to follow the council we receive from reading the scriputres, we also need to follow the council we receive from the Prophets of the Lord.

President Henry B. Eyring: Continuing Revelation

I am a convert to the church but thanks to an active extended family I have grown up hearing about the gospel and modern day prophets. I didn't become a member of the church until I was in college but because of this family history of faith, I never struggled with the idea of continuing revelation. In my mind it just made sense: Heavenly Father loves us so of course He would keep talking to us.  

Despite this acceptance of the gosple principle of continuing revelation, I must admit that I have always struggled to identify personal revelation, the type of revelation that is just for me. It is probably something I will have to work on my entire life, but I am thankful to know that revelation does happen and that I can develop my ability to recgonize it.

President Henry B. Eyring: Continuing Revelation

Read or watch the full talk here

One of the reasons I struggle with personal revelation is because in some respects I tend to look at the world in a very logical way. This was helpful in my acceptance of modern revelation because its existence made sense given my understanding and faith in who God is, a loving Heavenly Father. My logical lens can, however, present a challenge to understanding personal revelation because often times revelation doesn't always make sense. 

According to President Eyring, "we all know that human judgement and logical thinking will not be enough to get answers to the questions that matter most in life." This has proved very true for me.

President Eyring then went on to say that, "we need revelation from God. And we will need not just one revelation in a time of stress, but we need a constantly renewed stream. We need not just one flash of light and comfort, but we need the continuing blessing of communication with God." 

A reliance on revelation is crucial for members of the church. Truth be told, it is crucial for all of God's children. Yes, I realize I am saying that after just admitting I struggle to understand personal revelation. But I am working on it. You can to.

I realize that some people might question how crucial that reliance is. If you are one of them, I'd ask you to consider how this church began in modern times. As President Eyring reminded me today, our entire church exists on the premise of continued revelation and the fact that Joseph Smith received personal revelation. 

Now, I know that Heavenly Father could make His plan work no matter what. But I also know that He sent us down here to prepare for eternal life. Learning to rely on revelation is part of our education. Just as Joseph Smith had to learn to rely on personal revelation, so must we. Then we must use our agency to act on that council.

Thankfully President Eyring has some suggestions for how to become better at this challenging task. During his talk, President Eyring offered this guide for personal revelation: “Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven." He then went on to promise that, “the Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion.”

I don't kow about you, but I want the Holy Ghost as my constant companion. I want to "wax strong in the presence of God."

Ok, there is one last truth about personal revelation that President Eyring acknowledged in his talk.Brother and sisters, we have to accept that sometimes the revelation we receive is not what we want to hear. It is, however, the word of God and we need to listen to it and act on His council even if it doesn't seem to make sense, and even if it is not what we wanted to do.

Ok, I want to end with a few of President Eyring's final words. "Heavenly Father hears your prayers. He loves you. He knows your name. Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and our Redeemer. He loves you beyond your ability to comprehend."

President Thomas S. Monson: Guided Safely Home

Today's talk is the last one from the Priesthood Session of General Conference. I can't believe I only have two more weeks before the challenge is complete.

I hope you've enjoyed reading with me. Despite the difficulties of fulfilling this challenge, I've enjoyed studying these talks. I know they've helped bring me closer to Heavenly Father. I hope they have done the same for you.

I don't know who out there is reading, but I would love to hear from you. Let me know what you think about these wonderful talks.

President Thomas S. Monson: Guided Safely Home

Read or watch the full talk here.

President Monson began his talk with a story (I love his stories) about the German battleship named The Bismarck. You should check out the ship's history in the talk.

President Monson used this story to illustrate a point. He said, "like the vital rudder of a ship ... we have been provided a way to determine the direction we travel. The lighthouse of the Lord beckons to all as we sail the seas of life. Our purpose is to steer an undeviating course toward our desired goal- even the celestial kingdon of God. A man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder, never likely to reach home port." 

Brothers and Sisters, we must remember to keep this ultimate goal in heart and in mind. Nothing else matters but returning home and helping others to return as well. We can, we must, listen for and accept the Savior's invitation to follow Him. He is the example that will lead us home.

During his talk, President Monson made reference to a promise made by President N. Eldon Tanner, a former member of the first presidency. President Tanner said that, "nothing will bring greater joy and success than to live according to the teaching of the gospel." He then followed up his promise with a suggestion, I might even call it a commandment: "Be an example, be an influence for good."

We can do it brothers and sisters. Remember, Heavenly Father will help us. He is our father and He wants us to return to Him.

We must also remember that each of us has a work to do during our earthly life. We have our agency but we also have a responsibility to the Lord. Whether we complete our task or not, we will influence countless generations. I don't know about you, but I want to be a positive influence in the world and an example for Heavenly Father. As President Monson said, "We are strengthened by the truth that the greatest force in the world today is the power of God as it works through man." 

There was a lot more in President Monson's talk, but I will end with this quote from him. "With the rudder of faith guiding our passage ... we too will find our way safely home- home to God, to dwell with Him Eternally. That such may be so for each of us, I pray in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, amen." 

I thank you Brother Monson, for your love and for your prayers. 

President Henry B. Eyring: The Preparatory Priesthood

President Henry B. Eyring: The Preparatory Priesthood

Read or watch the full talk here

What I appreciated most about this talk was the reminder that the Lord prepares the way. Any responsibility He gives us, be it employment, a calling, or a prompting, has and will be prepared for. It is comforting to know that if Heavenly Father asks me to do something I can trust that He will make sure I have what I need to get it done. Remembering this will help me be stronger, so I thank President Eyring and I thank Heavenly Father for the reminder.

In his talk, President Eyring said that Heavenly Father's entire plan is "filled with preparation." Think about it. We are living in a "preparatory state." According to President Eyring, Heavenly Father "prepared the earth for us to experience the tests and opportunities of mortality."

As I think about this now, I realize that every step of the Lord's plan is filled with preparation. We were prepared before we came to earth. Callings and promptings are prepared for. Every decision we make can be prepared for. Then, finally, the entire purpose of our earthly life is to prepare for an eternal life, "where we may live forever in families with God the Father and Jesus Christ."

The heavy use of preparation tells me one important truth: Heavenly Father wants us, wants all of us, each and every one, to return to live with Him.

If that doesn't tell you how much He loves you, I don't know what will.

President Eyring spent much of his talk discussing ways to help young Priesthood holders prepare for the future. The examples shared can help all of us as we strive to prepare for the future. Click on the link above and check out the whole talk. In the mean time, remember that two ways we can help people prepare for the future, including Priesthood responsibilities, are to (1) trust them, and (2) be an example.

Have a great night everyone. And Happy Thanksgiving.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: "Lord, Is It I?"

This was my first opportunity to study the talks shared in the Priesthood Session of General Conference. They have all been wonderful, but I especially liked Brother Uchtdorf’s words. I know that I need to turn my eye inward more often and reflect on how I can be a better disciple of Christ. This talk will help me do that.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf: “Lord, Is It I?”

Read or watch the full talk here

President Uchtdorf began his talk with a reminder of an exchange that took place between Christ and His disciples. On this night Christ told his disciples that one of them would betray Him. What happened next is true evidence of the righteousness of those men. They did not doubt Christ, or question Him. Then, instead of accusing each other they each asked if they were the one who would betray the Savior. 

That is such amazing faith. I hope that I would behave in the same fashion. But I also know that in such an exchange it would be easy for fear to tempt someone, myself included, to look around and judge their companions instead of themselves. 

No one would want to be the betrayer. 

But it is also true that no one likes to feel as if they are not good enough. Satan uses this tendency of the natural man to manipulate us into making unrighteous judgments. 

We must resist this tendency. We must look to ourselves and cast out the beams in our own eyes before we pridefully assume the responsibility of removing the motes in another’s eyes

President Uchtdorf then went on to remind us of the danger of overestimating our actions (not our worth, for we are all children of God and worthy of His love). President Uchtdorf said, “it might not be so significant to overestimate how well we drive a car or how far we can drive a golf ball. But when we start believing that our contributions at home, at work, and at church are greater than they actually are, we blind ourselves to blessings and opportunities to improve ourselves in significant and profound ways.”  

I have to admit that this was difficult to read. I’ve always struggled with knowing how much to do. I can be stubbornly independent. I like to take care of myself. I always have. It is hard for me to accept help and consequently I am less inclined to provide certain types of help. I can’t always understand why someone wants helps with something because I would never ask for that type of help.

Still, I am thankful for this reminder. I want to do what I can to help others. That will require that I help them as they need to be helped, not as I want to help them. 

I’m sure I am not alone when I say that I want to live up to my responsibilities as a disciple of Christ. We can do it, brothers and sisters. 

The other danger the comes when we judge others’ motes instead of dealing with our own beams, is the tendency to think we don’t need the Savior and the blessings of the gospel because we can take care of ourselves. As President Uchtdorf said, we become blind to our own faults and we get trapped by pride.

Brothers and Sisters, we all need Heavenly Father, we all need the gospel. According to President Uchtdorf, “being able to see ourselves clearly is essential to our spiritual growth and well-being. If our weaknesses and shortcomings remain obscure in the shadows, then the redeeming power of the Savior cannot heal them and make them strengths.” 

I don’t know about you, but I want to be strong. I want to be filled with the Spirit of the Lord and I want to follow His will. 

President Uchtdorf’s advice is to approach Heavenly Father with a broken heart and a teachable mind. Brothers and sisters, we can do this. We can remove the beams from our eyes. Heavenly Father will help us. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.

Bishop Dean M. Davies: The Law of the Fast: A Personal Responsibility to Care for the Poor and Needy

Bishop Dean M. Davies: The Law of the Fast: A Personal Responsibility to Care for the Poor and Needy

Read or watch the full talk here

Bishop Davies began his talk by recounting the events that unfolded after a typhoon in the Philippines.  Many men, women, and children were in serious need and the church stepped up to help out. According to Bishop Davies, "inspired plans began to take shape to help restore members to acceptable living conditions and self-reliance."

I have been blessed, no that isn't the right word. I have been lucky to never experience such a trial as was faced by those men and women. I've never had to worry about where I would sleep tonight, or if there would be enough food and water to survive. This has been a blessing in my life but that doesn't mean that I am any better than those who have experienced such trials. That's why I can only claim to be lucky. (I suppose I simply need to remember that I was born at this time and in this place for a reason.)

I have, however, strived to become self reliant. I do this not only as an act of obedience, but for my own sense of security. The added blessing of being self reliant is that at times, and in certain circumstances, I have been in the position to act when someone else was in need.

According to Bishop Davies, "caring for the poor and needy is a fundamental gospel doctrine and an essential element in the eternal plan of salvation."

I don't know if this is just my problem, but I don't always know how to fulfil this doctrine. It is difficult to know when to help someone and how to help them. This is especially true when I hear about natural disasters around the world. I was thankful to continue reading Bishop Davies' words. He said, "the Lord has established the law of the fast and fast offerings to bless His people and to provide a way for them to serve those in need."

I've always had a lot of respect for men and women who make sacfirices to travel around the world helping those in need. Sometimes I want to join them, but I've never had the guts to follow in their footsteps. When natural disasters occur I want to help, but I also don't to be in the way. Instead, I try to keep my eyes open for such opportunities where I live. I sure I've missed some, even many, but after reading Bishop Davies' words I will try to be more observant and more intuned to the promptings of the Spirit. I want and need to do my part.

Brothers and sisters, we live in a world where many are in need. We can all help to ease the burdens that weigh down our eternal sibilings. Everyone's means are different, but everyone will be blessed for contributing what they can to help others. They might make this contirbution with their time and talents, or with a fast offering. Pray to know what you can do. I know that Heavenly Father will guide you.

Remeber the words of President Monson: "No member of the Church who has helped provide for those in need ever forgets or regrets the experience. Industry, thrift, self-reliance, and sharing with others are not new to us.”

Elder Craig Christensen : I Know These Things of Myself

We have been told for years that we should learn about the gospel "line upon line," and that we can develop our testimonies "precept upon precept." Brothers and Sisters, Heavenly Father is wating for us. We are His children and He wants us to return home. If we approach Him with an open heart He will respond to our prayers. 

Over the last few years I have come to believe that if we come to Heavenly Father with an open heart He will give each of us "something" to rely on during the storms of life, something that will be the foundation of our testimony and that will help us keep our faith despite the many voices and doubts that fill the world. It we let it, that one thing will become many and we will be able to stand up and say "I know these things of myself."

Elder Craig Christensen : I Know These Things of Myself

Read of watch the full talk here

As Elder Christensen began his talk he made reference to a promise made by President Monson: "Whether you are 12 or 112—or anywhere in between—you can know for yourself that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true."

Brothers and Sisters, President Monson spoke the truth when he shared that promise. We truly can know that the gospel is true we just have to be willing to ask with an open heart. It is vital that we do ask because we can't rely on the testimonies of others. We have to discover for ourselves the truth of the gospel and we have to do the work to strengthen our own testimonies. 

We are all children and we are constantly learning so it's ok if we have to rely on the testimonies of others for a while. Remember, one of our responsibilities as children of God is to share our testimony with our brothers and sisters, to help them find and develop their own. But we can't rey on them permanently. 

Think for a moment about what Elder Christensen said: "personal experiences with the Lord prepared Nephi for the adversity and challenges he would soon face. They enabled him to stand strong even when others in his family were struggling. He could do this because he had learned for himself and he knew for himself. He had been blessed with his own testimony." 

We should all strive to be that strong, to have testimonies that won't flinch even in our darkest times. Remember, faith doesn't have to be complicated, we just want it to become strong. As Elder Christensen said, "this Church quite literally was founded on the principle that anyone—including a 14-year-old farm boy—can “ask of God” and receive an answer to his prayers."

I'll leave you with one final thought. Over the years of my membership in the church I have at times struggled with my testimony, everyone does as some point. But I have always, always, felt stronger and more confident about my testimony when I have stood up and shared it. 

So, I offer this challenge to you: read, pray, and fast to know the truth, then get up and share your testimony with someone else. It will help you and hopefuly it will help them.

Elder Quentin L. Cook: Choose Wisely

Elder Quentin L. Cook: Choose Wisely

Read or watch the full talk here

Early in his talk, Elder Cook reminded us of a lesson recently taught by Presiden Monson: "decisions determine destiny." The purpose of his talk seemed to be a desire to warn us against rationalizations and distracttions, and to encourage us to make and seriously commit to accomplishing eternal goals.

Like Elder Cook, I have always had an appreciation for goals. I tend to get bored and frustrated with my life if I am not working toward something. Having goals helps me to stay fulfilled. With that being said, I know that I need to be more consistent and thoughtful in how I select and work toward accomplishing my goals. Elder Cook shared this question as a way for assessing a goal: "Will this make you a better person?"

He then went on to quote Elder Oaks who encouraged church memvers to "distinguish between 'good, better, and best.'"This is a reference I return to often. I know that like you, there are a lot of opportunities available to me. There are countless ways that I can choose to spend my time. I know that I need to strive to use my time wisely and to spend it on activities that can be classified as the "best."

People are going to have different opinions about what the best way to spend their time and energy is. Ultimately, however, our purpose is to return to our Heavenly Father and to help our brothers and sisters return there as well.

Thank you Elder Cook for this wonderful reminder. I will continue to follow your council and do my best to make the "best" use of my time and talents.

Elder L. Tom Perry: Finding Lasting Peace and Building Eternal Families

I don't know about the rest of you, but peace is something I am constantly looking for. My life always seems to be crazy and I always feel overwhelmed with all the many things there are to do. But I know in my heart that peace can be found in this gospel. I have felt the Spirit's peaceful presence and so can you.

Elder L. Tom Perry: Finding Lasting Peace and Building Eternal Families

Elder Perry began this talk with a reference to his mother. He mentioned notebooks that she kept and in which she prepared Relief Society lessons. He shared several of the quotes she recorded. You should check them out.

He then took some time dicussing the parable of the tares in the wheat. In this parable (Matthew 13) the householder is apprached by his servants because they have discovered that an "enemy" has placed tares in the wheat. They want to cut the wheat down and destroy it. The householder tells them that instead of destroying the wheat, they should wait until it is ready to harvest and the tares can be removed without causing damage.

When I read this parable I can't help being reminded of the idea that we have to live in the world, but not be of the world. Life is hard and we are constantly bombarded with negative messages and voices. I know that I have to stay strong despite these negtive influences. I know that it is possible because I also know that Heavenly Father is helping me. Like the householder, He will wait for me to grow so that that tares can be safely removed and I can return to live with him. In the mean time, I have to continue to grow, surrounded by the dangerous tares.

Brothers and Sisters, stay strong. Your may be surrounded and bombarded by negative influences, but Heavenly Father is still watching out for you. He will protect you.

One of the other issues that Elder Perry spoke about was the importance of family. He said that "as members of the Church, we have the responsibility to preserve and protect the family as the basic unit of society." He then spoke about the powerful infleunce mothers have on their children, reminding us that "the decisions made by the women of this generation will be eternal in their consequences."

I have already told you that I am not a mother, but I still found comfort in Elder Perry's words because he reminded me that I don't have to become a CEO or a best selling author to be successful. I can fulfill my purpose and have an impact through small and daily acts of nuturing those around me, just as a tired and overworked mother nutures her children.

I would like to end by thanking all of the wonderful mothers, and fathers, who sacrifice so much for their children. You are appreciated. You are loved. You will be blessed for all that you have done.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: Are We Not All Beggars?

As we move through the holiday season I know that many of us will be busy with parties and presents. But we, meaning me, would do well to remember that every person on this earth is a child of God. This year I will strive to keep service and love in my heart. I will strive to recognize those in need and to do what I can to fulfill that need and ease their burdens.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: Are We Not All Beggars?

Read or watch the full talk here

I don't know about the rest of you, but sometimes I look at all the problems that exists in our world and I become overwhelmed. There just seems to be too much to do and too many people to help. The task seems impossible. 

Elder Holland's words in this talk were a wonderful reminder that I don't have to do everything, I just have to continue to do what I can. 

While speaking of Mother Theresa, Elder Holland said this: "A journalist once questioned Mother Teresa of Calcutta about her hopeless task of rescuing the destitute in that city. He said that, statistically speaking, she was accomplishing absolutely nothing. This remarkable little woman shot back that her work was about love, not statistics. Notwithstanding the staggering number beyond her reach, she said she could keep the commandment to love God and her neighbor by serving those within her reach with whatever resources she had. 'What we do is nothing but a drop in the ocean,' she would say on another occasion. 'But if we didn’t do it, the ocean would be one drop less [than it is].' Soberly, the journalist concluded that Christianity is obviously not a statistical endeavor. He reasoned that if there would be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over the ninety and nine who need no repentance, then apparently God is not overly preoccupied with percentages."

Brothers and Sisters, I know that our church likes to keep records, but I also know that the gospel is not about statistics. It is about each of us doing what we can to make a differenece in other people's lives.

As I move forward with this challenge, and with my life, I will strive to be more forgiving of others and of myself. I know that everyone makes mistakes, that is part of the learning process. Eveyone needs to be forgiven and I can do my part by being willing to forgive others.