KEEPING LIKFE'S DEMANDS IN BALANCE Summary

173rd Annual General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Saturday Morning, April 2003

Key Doctrines and Principles:

Elder Ballard taught that “too much of anything in life can throw us off-balance. At the same time, too little of the important things can do the same thing.” He suggests a periodic review of eight basic, easily-overlooked objectives to help us “manage the many demands that life makes on us.” Elder Ballard suggests that “through honest, open self-examination” we can find “an awareness within as to who and what we want to be.”

Even though they may seem very simple we will “need a strong commitment and personal discipline to incorporate them . . . into [our] life. . .  King Benjamin counseled ‘that all these things are done in wisdom and order’ (Mosiah 4:27).”

      1. Think about your life and set your priorities.

      2. Set short-term goals that you can reach.  

3. Through wise budgeting, control your real needs

     and measure them carefully against your many wants in life.

          Remember to always pay a full tithing

      4. Stay close to your spouse, children, relatives, and friends.

          They will help you keep a balance . . .

      5. Study the scriptures.  

      6. Schedule time on your daily calendars . . . for sufficient rest, exercise, and relaxation.

      7.  Teach one another the gospel, preferably in a weekly family home evening.  

      8. Pray often as individuals and as families.

Favorite Quotes:

“A periodic review of the covenants we have made with the Lord will help us with our priorities and with balance in our lives. This review will help us see where we need to repent and change our lives to ensure that we are worthy of the promises that accompany our covenants and sacred ordinances. Working out our own salvation requires good planning and a deliberate, valiant effort. . . . Jesus, our exemplar, often ‘withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed’ (Luke 5:16). We need to do the same thing occasionally to rejuvenate ourselves spiritually as the Savior did.”

“Find some quiet time regularly to think deeply about where you are going and what you will need to do to get there. . . . Write down the tasks you would like to accomplish each day. Keep foremost in mind the sacred covenants you have made with the Lord as you write down your daily schedules.”

“Set goals that are well balanced—not too many nor too few, and not too high nor too low. Write down your attainable goals and work on them according to their importance. Pray for divine guidance in your goal setting.”

“It is much easier to borrow money than it is to pay it back. There are no shortcuts to financial security. There are no get-rich-quick schemes that work.”

“A good marriage and good family relationships can be maintained through gentle, loving, thoughtful communication. Remember that often a glance, a wink, a nod, or a touch will say more than words. A sense of humor and good listening are also vital parts of good communication.”

“Study the scriptures. They offer one of the best sources we have to keep in touch with the Spirit of the Lord. … Make the study of the Book of Mormon a daily habit and a lifetime pursuit.”

“Schedule time on our daily calendars . . . for sufficient rest, exercise, and relaxation. . . . Good physical appearance enhances our dignity and self-respect.”

“Satan is always working to destroy our testimonies, but he will not have the power to tempt or disturb us beyond our strength to resist when we are studying the gospel and living its commandments.”

“When we focus on a few basic objectives, we are more likely to be able to manage the many demands that life makes on us. Remember, too much of anything in life can throw us off-balance. At the same time, too little of the important things can do the same thing.

So What?

A periodic review of the covenants we have made with the Lord will help us with our priorities and with balance in our lives. This review will help us see where we need to repent and change our lives to ensure that we are worthy of the promises that accompany our covenants and sacred ordinances. Working out our own salvation requires good planning and a deliberate, valiant effort.

THIS IS MY WORK AND GLORY Summary

183rd Annual General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Saturday Morning, 7 April 2013

Key Doctrines and Principles:

-

 Our universe is expansive but tiny compared to the vastness of God’s creations. “The power by which the heavens and earth were and are created is the priesthood . . .  [and] the source of this priesthood power is God Almighty and His Son, Jesus Christ . . . It is also the power the Savior used in His mortal ministry to perform miracles . . . and, as our Father’s Only Begotten Son, to endure the unbearable pain of Gethsemane and Calvary, . . .  providing an infinite Atonement and overcoming physical death through the Resurrection.”

“The primary purpose of this priesthood power is to bless, sanctify, and purify us so we can live together with our families in the presence of our heavenly parents, bound by priesthood sealings, participating in the marvelous work of God and Jesus Christ in forever expanding Their light and glory.”

Favorite Quotes:

-

“Men have the unique responsibility to administer the priesthood, but they are not the priesthood. Men and women have different but equally valued roles. Just as a woman cannot conceive a child without a man, so a man cannot fully exercise the power of the priesthood to establish an eternal family without a woman. In other words, in the eternal perspective, both the procreative power and the priesthood power are shared by husband and wife . . .  The Christian virtues of love, humility, and patience should be their focus as they seek the blessings of the priesthood in their lives and for their family.”

“It is crucial for us to understand that Heavenly Father has provided a way for all . . . to have access to the blessings of and be strengthened by the power of the priesthood.   (Moses 1:39).

“The Lord explains that the power of the priesthood is to be used to ‘succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees.’ (Doctrine and Covenants 81:5)

“We have unlimited, divine potential. But if we are not careful . . . we can drift away from the true doctrine and gospel of Christ and become spiritually undernourished and wilted, having removed ourselves from the divine light and living waters of the Savior’s eternal love and priesthood power . . .”

So what:

-

Elder Ballard sums up his talk by specifying, “The same priesthood power that created worlds, galaxies, and the universe can and should be part of our lives to succor, strengthen, and bless our families, our friends, and our neighbors—in other words, to do the things that the Savior would do if He were ministering among us today.”

He also teaches us regarding the World Wide Leadership Training “now available on the Internet at LDS.org for all to see and experience (wwlt.lds.org)”  and instructs that “the content will inspire and motivate members . . . This leadership training is for every member of the Church. Parents, review, share, and discuss what you learn and feel with your children, and let them watch and do the same with you, that your families may be strengthened through the priesthood.”

M RUSSELL BALLARD

Activity Instructions: 

General Conference: 

Read all of the talks given by Elder M Russell Ballard in the last General Conference in which he spoke.

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• If you have any questions in your life, search for answers to them in the talks from our prophet. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book. 
• You can follow the link to access the talks from the last general conference. 

Past Talk: 

In this activity, you are to find and read a past talk given by Elder M Russell Ballard that will address a problem or question you have. The topic of the talk should have special meaning in your life. The talk or article can be from General Conference, the Ensign, a Devotional address, or any other meeting or training session. 

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• To find General Conference or Ensign material, go to this site or the lds.org search page and search the name of the general authority you are looking for. 
• Browse the results and read one of the past talks or articles written by that general authority. 
• To find a devotional address, go to the BYU speeches web page browse by speaker (in the top left corner) to find a collection of speeches by the person you are searching. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book

SIN AND SUFFERING Summary

Fireside, Brigham Young University,

5 August 1990, July 1992 Ensign

Key Doctrines and Principles:  

-

“In its widest application, sin includes every irregularity of behavior, every source of uncleanliness,” Elder Oaks taught. He explained 7 basic doctrines about sin, including the concept that a “condition of repentance is suffering or punishment for the sin . . . ‘Repentance could not come unto men except there were a punishment.’ (Alma 42:16.) Where there has been sin, there must be suffering.” He expressed great concern for those that knowingly sin because “repentance, which is an assured passage to an eternal destination, is nevertheless not a free ride. . . . President Spencer W. Kimball . . .  said that personal suffering ‘is a very important part of repentance. One has not begun to repent until he has suffered intensely for his sins. … If a person hasn’t suffered, he hasn’t repented.’ (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982, pp. 88, 99.) Emphasis mine.”

He also expressed “the reality that a doctrinal underdose for some is an overdose for others” and reiterated “the essence of the gospel” message that “the awful demands of justice upon those who have violated the laws of God (Mosiah 3:25) . . . can be mediated by the atonement of Jesus Christ."

Favorite Quotes:

-

Some . . . wrongly think repentance is easy [and] a person is better off after he has sinned and repented. “Get a little experience with sin,” one argument goes, “and then you will be better able to counsel and sympathize with others. You can always repent.” I plead with you . . . avoid transgression! [These ideas] . . . are devilish lies of the adversary.”

“Would anyone seriously contend that it is better to learn firsthand that a certain blow will break a bone or a certain mixture of chemicals will explode and burn off our skin? Are we better off after we have sustained and been scarred from such injuries? It is obviously better to heed the warnings of wise persons who know the effects of certain traumas on our bodies. Just as we can benefit from someone else’s experience in matters such as these, we can also benefit from the warnings contained in the commandments of God. We don’t have to have personal experience with the effects of serious transgressions to know that they are injurious to our souls and destructive of our eternal welfare.” (Emphasis mine.)

“When we are young, we sometimes behave as if there were no tomorrow. When we are young, it is easy to forget that we will grow up, marry, raise a family, and—note this significant point—continue to associate with some of the same people who are witnesses to, or participants in, our teenage pranks or transgressions . . . Conduct your life today so your tomorrows are not burdened with bad or embarrassing memories.”

     Personal Story:

-
“Some years ago, one of our sons asked me why it wasn’t a good idea to try alcohol or tobacco to see what they were like. He knew about the Word of Wisdom, and he also knew the health effects of these substances, but he was questioning why he shouldn’t just try them out for himself. I replied that if he wanted to try something out, he ought to go to a barnyard and eat a little manure. He recoiled in horror. ‘Ooh, that’s gross,’ he reacted.

                  “I’m glad you think so,” I said, “but why don’t you just try it out so you will know for yourself? While you’re proposing to try one thing that you know is not good for you, why don’t you apply that principle to some others?” 

                 That illustration of the silliness of “trying it out for yourself” proved persuasive for one sixteen-year-old.”

So What?

-

Elder Oaks made absolutely clear and left no doubt that,“Repentance is a continuing process, needed by all because “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Rom. 3:23.) Repentance is possible, and then forgiveness is certain. Elder Spencer W. Kimball said: ‘Sometimes … when a repentant one looks back and sees the ugliness, the loathsomeness of the transgression, he is almost overwhelmed and wonders, “Can the Lord ever forgive me? Can I ever forgive myself?” But when one reaches the depths of despondency and feels the hopelessness of his position, and when he cries out to God for mercy in helplessness but in faith, there comes a still, small, but penetrating voice whispering to his soul, “Thy sins are forgiven thee.”’ (The Miracle of Forgiveness, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1969, p. 344.) When this happens, how precious the promise that God will take “away the guilt from our hearts, through the merits of his Son.” (Alma 24:10.) How comforting the promise that “though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” (Isa. 1:18.) How glorious God’s own promise that “he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more. (D&C 58:42; see also Jer. 31:34; Heb. 8:12.)” Bold and italic emphasis mine.

FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST Summary

183rd Annual General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Sunday Afternoon, 7 April 2013

Key Doctrines and Principles:
-
Elder Oaks expounded how the example and teachings of Jesus Christ define the lives and beliefs of His followers. He invited all who follow Christ, both members and nonmembers, to consider how we may each qualify for the kingdom of God. Some key ways Elder Oaks suggested to follow the Savior's example are: scripture study; baptism; repentance; obedience to the commandments of God; worthily partaking of the sacrament; sincere prayer and fasting; and serving, forgiving, and teaching others.  

Favorite Quotes: 

-

“One of our most beloved hymns . . . begins with these words:

‘Come, follow me,’ the Savior said.

Then let us in his footsteps tread . . .  Hymn 116

Those words [were] inspired by the Savior’s earliest invitation to His disciples.

 (see Matthew 4:19)" 

"All of the messages of this conference help us follow in the footsteps of our Savior, whose example and teachings define the path for every follower of Jesus Christ. Like all other Christians, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints study the life of our Savior as reported in the New Testament books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.”

“Jesus’ teachings were not meant to be theoretical. Always they were to be acted upon. . . .

 In another beloved hymn we sing:

                        Savior, may I learn to love thee,

                        Walk the path that thou hast shown. …

                        Savior, may I learn to love thee—

                        Lord, I would follow thee. Hymns, no. 220

 As Jesus taught, those who love Him will keep His commandments.

       (Matthew 7:24; Matthew 24:46; Luke 11:28).”

“Following Christ is not a casual or occasional practice but a continuous commitment and way of life that applies at all times and in all places.”

“[Jesus Christ] invites all of us who are heavy laden to come unto Him, to learn of Him, to follow Him, and thus to find rest to our souls (seeMatthew 4:19; 11:28)."

So what?

-
Following the example of Jesus Christ requires a serious commitment adhered to by diligent choices and practices. This is best accomplished when we recognize the validity of Elder Oaks teachings that we are God’s children, and understand “we are all heirs of our heavenly parents. ‘We are the children of God,’ the Apostle Paul taught, ‘and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ’ (Romans 8:16–17). This means, as we are told in the New Testament, that we are ‘heirs … of eternal life’ (Titus 3:7) and that if we come to the Father, we are to ‘inherit all things’ (Revelation 21:7)—all that He has—a concept our mortal minds can hardly grasp.” When we learn these truths, then we revere both Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ and willingly choose to follow Christ’s example. Our loved hymn, “Come Follow Me” finishes with this admonition:

                         “Is it enough alone to know 

                        That we must follow him below,

                        While trav’ling thru this vale of tears?

                        No, this extends to holier spheres. …

                        For thrones, dominions, kingdoms, pow’rs,

                        And glory great and bliss are ours,

                        If we, throughout eternity,

                        Obey his words, “Come, follow me.”

                                    Hymns, no. 220 by John Nicholson

As Elder Oaks taught, “Achieving this ultimate destiny in eternity is possible only if we follow our Savior, Jesus Christ, who taught that ‘no man cometh unto the Father, but by me’ (John 14:6).”

DALIN H OAKS

Activity Instructions: 

General Conference: 

Read all of the talks given by Elder Dalin H Oaks in the last General Conference in which he spoke.

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• If you have any questions in your life, search for answers to them in the talks from our prophet. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book. 
• You can follow the link to access the talks from the last general conference. 

Past Talk: 

In this activity, you are to find and read a past talk given by Elder Dalin H Oaks that will address a problem or question you have. The topic of the talk should have special meaning in your life. The talk or article can be from General Conference, the Ensign, a Devotional address, or any other meeting or training session. 

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• To find General Conference or Ensign material, go to this site or the lds.org search page and search the name of the general authority you are looking for. 
• Browse the results and read one of the past talks or articles written by that general authority. 
• To find a devotional address, go to the BYU speeches web page browse by speaker (in the top left corner) to find a collection of speeches by the person you are searching. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book

SWEET HOUR OF PRAYER Summary

173rd Annual  General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Saturday morning,  April 2003

Key Doctrines and Principles:

-

 Prayer is a vital communication linking man and God. He is a loving father that desires our happiness “and to help us achieve our full potential.” We pray for many reasons, in many places and postures, and at many times. Prayer may be silent or verbal. All sincere prayer brings great power  and blessings to us. “The Lord said, ‘Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good’ (D&C 90:24).”

Favorite Quotes:

-

“Father in Heaven wants to hear from His children (see Mosiah 9:3; Mosiah 13:29; Hel. 12:5).”

“Through prayer, we can show our love for God. And He has made it so easy. We may pray to Him any time. No special equipment is needed. We don’t even need to charge batteries or pay a monthly service fee.”

“Some people pray only when confronted with personal problems. Others don’t pray at all. A scripture makes this observation: ‘Ye do not remember the Lord your God in the things with which he hath blessed you, but ye do always remember your riches, not to thank the Lord … for them’ (Hel. 13:22). Prophets have long told us to pray humbly and frequently. (For examples, see Jer. 29:11–13; Joel 2:32; Philip. 4:6; 1 Ne. 15:8–11; Alma 37:37).”

“Jesus revealed that we pray to a wise Father who knows what things we have need of, before we ask Him (Matt. 6:8) . . . The Lord said, “Search diligently, pray always, and be believing, and all things shall work together for your good (D&C 90:24).”

“We should pray ‘with all the energy of heart’ (Moro. 7:48) . . . The sweet power of prayer can be intensified by fasting, on occasion, when appropriate to a particular need (See Matt. 17:21; Mark 9:29; 1 Cor. 7:5; Mosiah 27:22–23; Alma 5:46; 3 Ne. 27:1; D&C 88:76).”

“Prayers can be offered even in silence. One can think a prayer, especially when words would interfere.  One of our hymns recounts that ‘Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire, Uttered or unexpressed, … The upward glancing of an eye when none but God is near’ (Hymns, no. 145).We often kneel to pray; we may stand or be seated, as may be appropriate for the occasion Physical position is less important than is spiritual submission to God. (For other helpful instruction, see Dallin H. Oaks, “The Language of Prayer,” Ensign, May 1993, 15–18).”

So What?

 -
We each can have a personal relationship with our Father in Heaven. Although we may not demand or coerce his blessings, he freely offers us all that is for our best good. We must ask him for the things we need and recognize his omniscient love for us personally.

CATCH THE WAVE Summary

183rd Annual General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Saturday afternoon, 7 April 2013

Key Doctrines and Principles:

- 

Elder Nelson taught, “An unprecedented wave of enthusiasm for missionary work is sweeping the entire earth . . . a wave of truth and righteousness” . . . [it] is wondrous! It is not man-made! It comes from the Lord, who said, ‘I will hasten my work in its time’(Doctrine and Covenants 88:73).”

   

God desires every person to have equal unfettered opportunities to enjoy every privilege and all happiness they desire. The truths restored by Joseph Smith complement and enhance truth found in the Bible. The Book of Mormon, and other scriptures now available, detail the fulfillment of many Bibical prophecies and clarify many ancient doctrines and practices.

Elder Nelson explains how to embrace, prepare, and catch the wave.

         “Teenagers, embrace your new curriculum and teach one another . . . Now is your time . . .

         Parents, teachers, and others, catch the wave as you prepare  . . .  to give an answer to those who ask why you live as you do. Be ready to give a reason for the hope and joy that they see in you. When such questions come, you might respond by saying, ‘Let’s ask the missionaries! They can help us!’. . .

          Adults, catch the wave with help for the spiritual, physical, and financial preparation of future missionaries. Pinching pennies for piggy banks becomes part of your practice. . .

         Senior couples, you plan for the day when you can go on your mission. Until then . . . send your dollars on missions by contributing to the General Missionary Fund . . .

         Increasing numbers . . . catch the wave as they are called to preside over missions of the Church. In that service they will shape the destiny of generations born and unborn. . . .

          [Leaders] . . . on each ward council are beginning to catch the wave . . . The ward mission leader. . . is crucial, truly crucial to the success of this work. If [they] catch the wave with faith and enthusiasm, others will also. . . .[They] are the connecting link between members and missionaries in this sacred work . . .

         Our inquiring friends and neighbors not of our faith can also catch the wave. We encourage them to keep all that is good and true in their lives. And we invite them to receive more.” (Emphasis mine.)

Favorite Quotes:

- 

  “An unprecedented wave of enthusiasm for missionary work is sweeping the entire earth . . . a wave of truth and righteousness . . . see your opportunity to be on the crest of that wave . . . [it] is wondrous! It is not man-made! It comes from the Lord, who said, “I will hasten my work in its time.” . . . Our living God is a loving God! John 17:3 . . . And He wants His children to gain immortality and eternal life! Moses 1:39”

 “I cannot speak of the Restoration in tempered tones. This fact of history is absolutely stunning! It is incredible! It is breathtaking! How amazing is it that messengers from heaven came to give authority and power to this work? Our Eternal Father and Jesus Christ made multiple appearances to the Prophet Joseph Smith. Under Their direction, other heavenly messengers came, each with a specific purpose.”

“The Book of Mormon is the centerpiece of the Restoration. It was written, preserved, and transmitted under the Lord’s direction. It was translated “by the gift and power of God.” [1] The book of Doctrine and Covenants contains many additional revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith.”

So what:  

-

Elder Nelson invites all members and missionaries to work together to “invite all to learn of God, of Jesus Christ, and of His gospel,” and invites each of us to “be on the crest of that wave.” He also instructs that, “Each inquiring individual should seek earnestly and pray fervently for the assurance that these things are true. The truth will be manifest by the power of the Holy Ghost. (Moroni 10:4–5) Each of us should know for ourselves these things are true. When we know this, we have a great desire to fulfill our duty and responsibility to help others know such joy.

---

[1] Title page of the Book of Mormon, authored by Moroni; Doctrine and Covenants 135:3

RUSSEL M NELSON

Activity Instructions: 

General Conference: 

Read all of the talks given by Elder Russell M Nelson in the last General Conference in which he spoke.

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• If you have any questions in your life, search for answers to them in the talks from our prophet. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book. 
• You can follow the link to access the talks from the last general conference. 

Past Talk: 

In this activity, you are to find and read a past talk given by Elder Russell M Nelson that will address a problem or question you have. The topic of the talk should have special meaning in your life. The talk or article can be from General Conference, the Ensign, a Devotional address, or any other meeting or training session. 

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• To find General Conference or Ensign material, go to this site or the lds.org search page and search the name of the general authority you are looking for. 
• Browse the results and read one of the past talks or articles written by that general authority. 
• To find a devotional address, go to the BYU speeches web page browse by speaker (in the top left corner) to find a collection of speeches by the person you are searching. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book

BECOMING GOODLY PARENTS Summary

182rd Semi-Annual General Conference of 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints  

Saturday afternoon, 6 October 2012

Key Doctrines and Principles: 

Elder Perry delineated that the culture of the church is a culture of families and individuals living and working together for the best good and ultimate happiness of all of God’s children. He taught five distinct ways for “goodly parents who are entrusted with the care and development of Heavenly Father’s children” to achieve and “create stronger family cultures:

First, parents can pray in earnest, asking our Eternal Father to help them love, understand, and guide the children He has sent to them.

Second, they can hold family prayer, scripture study, and family home evenings and eat together as often as possible, making dinner a time of communication and the teaching of values.

Third, parents can fully avail themselves of the Church’s support network, communicating with their children’s Primary teachers, youth leaders, and class and quorum presidencies. By communicating with those who are called and set apart to work with their children, parents can provide essential understanding of a child’s special and specific needs.

Fourth, parents can share their testimonies often with their children, commit them to keep the commandments of God, and promise the blessings that our Heavenly Father promises His faithful children.

Fifth, we can organize our families based on clear, simple family rules and expectations, wholesome family traditions and rituals, and “family economics,” where children have household responsibilities and can earn allowances so that they can learn to budget, save, and pay tithing on the money they earn.”

 Favorite Quotes:

  “The sanctity of marriage and the central importance of families . . . [are] prime targets of the adversary. . . . They provide an anchor and the safe harbor of a home where each child of a loving Heavenly Father can be influenced for good and acquire eternal values.”

From letter to mother, “You always found time to take the family into the canyon, and we could count on you to do anything from climbing mountains to playing ball with us. You and Dad were never going on vacations alone. The family was always with you.”

“The joining together of a man and a woman to be legally and lawfully wed not only is preparation for future generations to inherit the earth, but it also brings the greatest joy and satisfaction that can be found in this mortal experience. This is especially true when the powers of the priesthood proclaim a marriage to be for time and for all eternity. Children born to such marriages have a security that is found nowhere else.”

“The onslaught of wickedness against our children is more subtle and brazen than it has ever been. Building a strong family culture adds another layer of protection for our children, insulating them from worldly influences.”

So What?

Parents (and those that support parents) are entrusted with a sacred duty to teach the children of God true principles and values. Elder Perry taught, “As parents we partner, even join, with God in bringing to pass His work and glory among His children. It is our sacred duty to do our very best.”  Joseph Fielding Smith said we must “begin by teaching at the cradle-side. You are to teach by example as well as precept.”

“The proclamation on the family says:

‘Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. ‘Children are an heritage of the Lord’ (Psalm 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. …

“… By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners.’ 

'The Family: A Proclamation to the World,' Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2010, 129."

OBEDIENCE TO LAW IS LIBERTY Summary

183rd Annual General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Sunday Morning, 7 April 2013

Key Doctrines and Principles:

Man’s agency has been the cause of war since the beginning of time: it preceded our earthly existence, continues today, and “each choice you and I make is a test of our agency—whether we choose to be obedient or disobedient to the commandments of God ... a choice between “liberty and eternal life” and “captivity and death.”

This war, of evil versus good, is a war of words and desires controlled by thoughts from within ourselves. Society, as a whole, has begun to diverge from the protective influence of obedience, to the “loving counsel” God gave his children, as we now largely disregard and “routinely dismiss” six of the 10 commandments. These moral absolutes are for the good of all.

Elder Perry concurs with the small book of directives given to soldiers that states, “In the universe . . . where God is in command, there is law—universal, eternal … law—with certain blessings and immutable penalties.”

Favorite Quotes:

“Today we find ourselves in another war. This is not a war of armaments. It is a war of thoughts, words, and deeds. It is a war with sin, and more than ever we need to be reminded of the commandments. Secularism is becoming the norm, and many of its beliefs and practices are in direct conflict with those that were instituted by the Lord Himself for the benefit of His children.”

“President Harold B. Lee said, ‘Next to life itself, free agency is God’s greatest gift to mankind (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee 2000, 4.)’  [In pre-mortal existence] it was no small thing for Satan to disregard man’s agency. In fact, it became the principal issue over which the War in Heaven was fought. Victory in the War in Heaven was a victory for man’s agency." 

“Satan, however, was not done. His backup plan—the plan he has been executing since the time of Adam and Eve—was to tempt men and women, essentially to prove we are undeserving of the God-given gift of agency.”

So what?

 We are free to act to choose eternal happiness or misery (2 Nephi 2; 10:23). “None of us should ever underestimate how driven Satan is to succeed. His role in God’s eternal plan creates “opposition in all things” (2 Nephi 2:11) and tests our agency.” Our eternal happiness and liberty come from obedience to the commandments and laws of God. 

L TOM PERRY

Activity Instructions: 

General Conference: 

Read all of the talks given by Elder L. Tom Perry in the last General Conference in which he spoke.

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• If you have any questions in your life, search for answers to them in the talks from our prophet. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book. 
• You can follow the link to access the talks from the last general conference. 

Past Talk: 

In this activity, you are to find and read a past talk given by Elder L. Tom Perry that will address a problem or question you have. The topic of the talk should have special meaning in your life. The talk or article can be from General Conference, the Ensign, a Devotional address, or any other meeting or training session. 

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• To find General Conference or Ensign material, go to this site or the lds.org search page and search the name of the general authority you are looking for. 
• Browse the results and read one of the past talks or articles written by that general authority. 
• To find a devotional address, go to the BYU speeches web page browse by speaker (in the top left corner) to find a collection of speeches by the person you are searching. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book.

OUR MORAL ENVIRONMENT Summary

162nd Annual  General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Sunday morning, April 1992

Key Doctrines and Principles:

The moral and spiritual environment we raise families in is declining while society, as a whole, attempts to absolve itself from responsibility in the name of agency, rights, and freedoms.  Elder Packer explained, “There are both moral and physical laws “irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world” (D&C 130:20) which man cannot overrule. For instance, do you think a vote to repeal the law of gravity would do any good?”

Prophets have the right and an obligation to speak out about moral issues to raise a warning voice to guide, teach, comfort. No matter what mistakes may occur course corrections are possible through repentance and following their directives.

Favorite Quotes:

      “We find the pollution index is spiraling upward . . . [as] those determined to transgress . . .  seek to have their actions condoned by making them legal. People who are otherwise sensible say, ‘I do not intend to indulge, but I vote for freedom of choice for those who do.’”

      Flawed Argument – “Regardless of how lofty and moral the “pro-choice” [or another] argument sounds, it is badly flawed. With that same logic one could argue that all traffic signs and barriers which keep the careless from danger should be pulled down on the theory that each individual must be free to choose how close to the edge he will go.”

The Measure of a Successful Parent – “It is a great challenge to raise a family in the darkening mists of our moral environment. We emphasize that the greatest work you will do will be within the walls of your home (see Harold B. Lee, Ensign, July 1973, p. 98), and that ‘no other success can compensate for failure in the home’ (David O. McKay,Improvement Era, June 1964, p. 445).”

      “The measure of our success as parents, however, will not rest solely on how our children turn out. That judgment would be just only if we could raise our families in a perfectly moral environment, and that now is not possible.”

      “ Pray for your careless and disobedient children; hold on to them with your faith. Hope on, trust on, till you see the salvation of God.” (Orson F. Whitney, in Conference Report, Apr. 1929, p. 110.)”

      “We cannot overemphasize the value of temple marriage, the binding ties of the sealing ordinance, and the standards of worthiness required of them. President Brigham Young said:

      ‘Let the father and mother, who are members of this Church and Kingdom, . . . strive with all their might never to do a wrong, but to do good all their lives; . . . binding [children] to the Lord by their faith and prayers, . . . [until] they are bound up to their parents by an everlasting tie, and no power of earth or hell can separate them from their parents in eternity; . . .’ (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols., 2:90–91.)”

No Free Agency - "The phrase 'free agency' does not appear in scripture. The only agency spoken of there is moral agency, 'Which,' the Lord said, 'I have given unto him, that every man may be accountable for his own sins in the day of judgment.' (D&C 101:78)"

Repentance – “In the battle of life, the adversary takes enormous numbers of prisoners, and many who know of no way to escape and are pressed into his service. Every soul confined to a concentration camp of sin and guilt has a key to the gate. The adversary cannot hold them if they know how to use it. The key is labeled Repentance. The twin principles of repentance and forgiveness exceed in strength the awesome power of the adversary.

      “I know of no sins connected with the moral standard for which we cannot be forgiven.”

So What? 

Many truths taught by Elder Packer in 1992 were reiterated again, almost verbatim,  in April 2013 general conference. Every church member has a duty and obligation similar to those that President Packer taught that prophets have. They warn and guide. We choose to obey or suffer the predicted dire consequences.

THESE THINGS I KNOW Summary

183rd Annual  General Conference of

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Sunday morning, 7 April 2013

Key Doctrines and Principles: 

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President Packer opened his talk with a poem about aging and learning more as we get older. He has added to over the years. A wise kernel of truth, I personally agree with is, “I would not barter age for youth, I’d have too much to lose. . . . I am quite content to move ahead, To yield my youth, however grand. The thing I’d lose if I went back Is what I understand.”One thing he consistently testifies of is the divinity of Jesus Christ.

He then explained some additional things he understands. “The adversary is about. His objective is to cause injury . . . and destroy the family.” He taught that there is safety in living and honoring covenants “and living up to the ordinary acts of obedience required of the followers of Christ.”

President Packer stated, “The consummate power of the priesthood has been given to protect the home and its inhabitants.” I don’t ever remember hearing this doctrine previously. It really stood out to me. I have heard of many ways the Priesthood can act and serve but this was very specific and he outlined duties of a father and the efficacy of a righteous mother’s faith. He also discussed many of the same principles of moral agency that he has taught in the past and again emphasized that “all are born with the Light of Christ” to help discern between good and evil.

Favorite Quotes:

“We will not always be safe from the adversary’s influence, even within our own homes. We need to protect our nestlings. We live in a very dangerous world . . . under attack from forces seen and unseen. The adversary is about. His objective is to cause injury . . . and destroy the family . . . We find safety and security . . .  in honoring the covenants we have made and living up to the ordinary acts of obedience . . ."

"The consummate power of the priesthood has been given to protect the home and its inhabitants. The father has the authority and responsibility to teach his children and to bless and to provide for them the ordinances of the gospel and every other priesthood protection necessary. He is to demonstrate love and fidelity and honor to the mother so that their children can see that love."

“Faith is a real power, not just an expression of belief. There are few things more powerful than the faithful prayers of a righteous mother.”

“All are born with the Light of Christ, . . . What we do with that light . . . is part of the test of mortality (Moroni 7:16). ”

 "Each of us must stay in condition to respond to inspiration and the promptings of the Holy Ghost. . . . Each [child] of God can know the things they need to know instantly.”

So What: 
-  
    I need to “learn to receive and act on inspiration and revelation."As we follow the prophets, we can instantly receive warnings, guidance and protection that we need by listening for the promptings of the Holy Ghost and by being worthy enough to accept them, to not only understand them but also to act upon them

BOYD K PACKER

Activity Instructions: 

General Conference: 

Read all of the talks given by President Boyd K Packer in the last General Conference in which he spoke.

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• If you have any questions in your life, search for answers to them in the talks from our prophet. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book. 
• You can follow the link to access the talks from the last general conference. 

Past Talk: 

In this activity, you are to find and read a past talk given by President Boyd K Packer that will address a problem or question you have. The topic of the talk should have special meaning in your life. The talk or article can be from General Conference, the Ensign, a Devotional address, or any other meeting or training session. 

• Pray for inspiration and guidance before and after you read. 
• To find General Conference or Ensign material, go to this site or the lds.org search page and search the name of the general authority you are looking for. 
• Browse the results and read one of the past talks or articles written by that general authority. 
• To find a devotional address, go to the BYU speeches web page browse by speaker (in the top left corner) to find a collection of speeches by the person you are searching. 
• If any quotes stand out to you and have special meaning, write them in your Inspirational Quote Book.

WALKING IN CIRCLES Summary

Ensign June 2013 1st Presidency Message page 4-6

ELDER DEITER F UCHTDORF, 
Second Counselor in the First Presidency,

Key Doctrines: Without landmarks and reference points we all tend to get lost. Elder Uchtdorf asks, “Have you ever heard the old saying that people who get lost tend to walk in circles?" He then explains," [Many studies] with different methodologies . . . all returned similar results. Without visible landmarks, human beings tend to walk in circles."

Favorite Quotes and Why it Matters:

I feel so strongly about this message and it pertinence to our lives that I have to include it here among the messages from the living prophets, as we study them. Such strengthening messages can not be ignored or set aside. I want to be able to review it often.

The Landmark of the Scriptures

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“Without spiritual landmarks, mankind wanders as well. Without the word of God, we walk in circles. . . The scriptures are the word of God. They are God’s landmarks that show the way we should travel in order to draw closer to our Savior and reach worthy goals.

The Landmark of General Conference

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“The instructions given at general conference are another landmark that can help us know if we are on course . . . Are we noting and applying this worthwhile counsel? Are we recognizing and walking toward these real and valuable landmarks?

The Antidote to Wandering

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"Spiritual landmarks are indispensable for keeping us on the straight and narrow path. They give clear direction as to the way we should travel—but only if we recognize them and walk toward them.

"If we refuse to be guided by these landmarks, they become meaningless, decorative masses that have no purpose but to break up the flatness of the horizon.

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"It’s not enough to go solely by our instincts.

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"It’s not enough to have the best of intentions.

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"It won’t do to rely only on our natural senses.

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"Even when we think we are following a straight spiritual path, without true landmarks to guide us—without the guidance of the Spirit—we will tend to wander.

"Let us, therefore, open our eyes and see the landmarks . . . we should set our course by them. We should also make regular course corrections as we orient ourselves . . .  [and] not wander in circles but walk with confidence and certainty toward that great heavenly blessing that is the birthright of all who walk in the straight and narrow way of Christ’s discipleship.

"Numbers 14:26–33; 1 Nephi 16:28–29; Alma 37:38–47."

Ensign June 2013 “[Consider] other spiritual landmarks [that may] influence and guide your life.  . . . Write your experiences down in your journal” 

“Your [patriarchal] blessing is not to be folded neatly and tucked away. It is not to be framed or published. Rather, it is to be read. It is to be loved. It is to be followed. Your patriarchal blessing will see you through the darkest night. It will guide you through life’s dangers.”

     PRESIDENT THOMAS S MONSON, 

     President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 

     “Your Patriarchal Blessing: A Liahona of Light,”Ensign, Nov. 1986, 66.

“Our Heavenly Father did not launch us on our eternal voyage without providing the means whereby we could receive from Him guidance to ensure our safe return. I speak of prayer. I speak too of the whisperings from that still, small voice.”

     PRESIDENT THOMAS S MONSON,
     President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints,
     “The Raceof Life,” Liahona and Ensign, May 2012, 92.