Introduction: Discovering the Sweetness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Have you ever known something was true but struggled to feel its influence in your everyday life?
Perhaps you have known since childhood that you are a daughter of Heavenly Father, yet still experienced moments when you questioned your worth.
Maybe you have believed in God’s plan of happiness but found yourself struggling to feel hope during a difficult season.
Or perhaps you have understood the importance of the Holy Ghost without always recognizing His influence in your life.
In his General Conference talk, “Fruit to Make One Happy,” Elder Gary E. Stevenson teaches a beautiful principle: gospel truths become sweeter to us as we live them.
Using the imagery of fruit from Lehi’s vision of the tree of life, Elder Stevenson explains that learning about the gospel is important, but personally experiencing its blessings brings a deeper kind of understanding.
We can look at a piece of fruit, hold it, and imagine how it might taste.
But until we actually partake of it, we cannot fully appreciate its sweetness.
The gospel works similarly.
We can study its doctrines, listen to testimonies, and learn about the blessings Heavenly Father promises. Yet as we exercise faith and live these truths, we begin to experience the joy they bring.
Elder Stevenson identifies three particularly meaningful fruits of the gospel:
- Knowing that we are children of a loving Heavenly Father.
- Understanding the great plan of happiness through Jesus Christ.
- Receiving the gift and companionship of the Holy Ghost.
He then invites us to share these blessings with others through a simple pattern: love, share, and invite.
Although Elder Stevenson directs much of his message toward Primary children, the principles he teaches are equally meaningful for adult disciples of Jesus Christ.
For Relief Society sisters, this talk provides an opportunity to explore what it means to truly experience the gospel rather than simply know about it.
It invites us to reflect on our divine identity, recognize the Savior’s role in Heavenly Father’s plan, deepen our relationship with the Holy Ghost, and consider how we can help others discover the joy of the restored gospel.
This lesson help follows Elder Stevenson’s message in chronological order, dividing the talk into 10 discussion sections based on the principles and changes in emphasis throughout his address.
Each section includes selected direct quotations, doctrinal explanations, 10 discussion questions, 5 object lessons, and 10 personal sharing prompts.
Altogether, this resource provides 100 Relief Society discussion questions, 50 object lessons, and 100 personal sharing prompts to help teachers prepare a meaningful, Christ-centered lesson.
How to Use This Relief Society Lesson Help
The purpose of this resource is not to cover every question or activity in one lesson.
Instead, it is to give Relief Society teachers a collection of ideas they can prayerfully select from according to the needs of their sisters.
Each section includes:
- Direct quotes from Elder Stevenson: Passages that introduce the doctrine or principle being discussed.
- Understanding the doctrine: Additional explanation and scriptural connections to help deepen the discussion.
- 10 Relief Society discussion questions: Questions designed to encourage reflection, participation, and meaningful gospel conversations.
- 5 object lessons: Practical activities with materials, instructions, and spiritual applications.
- 10 personal sharing prompts: Invitations for sisters to share experiences, insights, and testimonies.
The sections follow the original order of the talk. Some of Elder Stevenson’s broader themes are separated into multiple sections so teachers can explore different principles without overlooking meaningful teachings.
The quotations below are selected excerpts from the talk you provided. For longer passages, teachers can read directly from the original address.
Section 1: Every Child of God Has a Purpose and Gifts That Can Bless Others
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson begins by addressing Primary children and reminding them of their importance in Heavenly Father’s work.
He teaches:
“I know you have a purpose.”
He also reminds them:
“You are our future.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson opens his message by speaking directly to children, but the principle he teaches applies to every child of Heavenly Father.
Each person has a purpose.
Our worth is not determined by our age, experience, calling, talents, accomplishments, or perceived influence.
We matter because we are children of God.
Elder Stevenson emphasizes that even young children have an important role in Heavenly Father’s work.
They can strengthen their families, contribute to their communities, and bless others through their unique gifts.
This principle is especially meaningful in Relief Society because sisters often experience different seasons of life.
Some are raising young children.
Others are caring for aging parents, serving in demanding callings, pursuing education, working outside the home, or navigating unexpected circumstances.
At times, our responsibilities may make us feel that we are not contributing enough.
But Elder Stevenson’s message reminds us that Heavenly Father has given each of us gifts and opportunities to bless others.
Our purpose is not limited to a particular calling or stage of life.
As we discover and develop our gifts, we can experience greater joy and become instruments in the Lord’s hands.
Teaching Focus: Recognizing Our Individual Purpose
Invite sisters to consider how their understanding of purpose has changed throughout their lives.
Emphasize that Heavenly Father’s work includes both visible contributions and quiet acts of love, service, and faithfulness.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why do you think Elder Stevenson began by reminding children that they have a purpose?
- How does knowing that Heavenly Father has a purpose for each of us influence our self-worth?
- Why do we sometimes underestimate the importance of our contributions?
- How can our understanding of purpose change during different seasons of life?
- What is the difference between discovering our purpose and comparing our purpose with someone else’s?
- How can spiritual gifts help us bless our families and communities?
- Why is it important to recognize the contributions of children and youth?
- How can we help others recognize their individual gifts?
- What does it mean to participate in Heavenly Father’s work through ordinary responsibilities?
- How can understanding our divine purpose bring greater joy into our lives?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Toolbox
Materials: Toolbox containing several different tools.
Instructions: Display the tools and discuss how each has a different purpose.
Ask sisters what would happen if every tool were identical.
Spiritual application: Heavenly Father gives His children different gifts and abilities. Each can contribute to His work.
Object Lesson 2: The Puzzle
Materials: Puzzle with several pieces removed.
Instructions: Show the incomplete puzzle and discuss how each piece contributes to the completed picture.
Spiritual application: Every person has a unique contribution to make.
Object Lesson 3: The Seed
Materials: Several varieties of seeds.
Instructions: Compare their different sizes and appearances.
Discuss how each has the potential to grow into something valuable.
Spiritual application: Heavenly Father sees our potential even when our gifts are still developing.
Object Lesson 4: The Musical Instruments
Materials: Pictures of different musical instruments.
Instructions: Discuss how instruments create different sounds but can contribute to the same musical performance.
Spiritual application: Our differences can strengthen the Church when we use our gifts together.
Object Lesson 5: The Gift Box
Materials: Wrapped gift box.
Instructions: Discuss how a gift becomes more useful when it is opened and used.
Spiritual application: Discovering and developing spiritual gifts allows us to bless others.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share an experience when you recognized that Heavenly Father had a purpose for you.
- Describe a spiritual gift you have discovered or developed.
- Tell about someone who helped you recognize your potential.
- Share a time when a child taught you an important gospel principle.
- Describe an experience when a small contribution made a meaningful difference.
- Tell about a season of life when your understanding of purpose changed.
- Share how serving others has helped you discover your gifts.
- Describe a time when you felt Heavenly Father guiding you toward an opportunity.
- Tell about someone whose unique talents have blessed your life.
- Share what it means to you to know that you are an important part of Heavenly Father’s work.
Section 2: The Fruit of the Tree of Life Represents the Love of God and the Blessings of Jesus Christ
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson recalls Lehi’s vision of the tree of life and the fruit that brought extraordinary joy.
He quotes Lehi’s description:
“I beheld a tree, whose fruit was desirable to make one happy.”
He then explains the meaning of the tree and its fruit:
“The tree stands for the love of God, including the greatest manifestations of that love: the birth, life, and atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson uses Lehi’s vision to introduce the central imagery of his message.
In 1 Nephi 8, Lehi describes a beautiful tree whose fruit is desirable above all others.
When he partakes of the fruit, he experiences extraordinary sweetness and joy.
The vision represents more than temporary happiness.
It teaches about the love of God and the eternal blessings made possible through Jesus Christ.
Elder Stevenson explains that the tree represents God’s love, particularly as demonstrated through the Savior’s birth, mortal ministry, and Atonement.
The fruit represents blessings received through Jesus Christ, including the ordinances, covenants, and truths of the restored gospel, and ultimately eternal life.
This imagery teaches us that the greatest blessings of the gospel come through our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
The fruit is desirable because it represents blessings that satisfy spiritual needs that worldly experiences cannot permanently fulfill.
As we come unto Jesus Christ, make and keep covenants, and live His gospel, we begin to experience the joy represented by the fruit.
Teaching Focus: Understanding What Makes the Fruit Desirable
Invite sisters to consider why Lehi described the fruit as desirable and joyful.
Emphasize the connection between God’s love, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and the blessings of the restored gospel.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why do you think the Lord used the imagery of a tree and fruit to teach about His love?
- What does the tree of life represent?
- How does the Atonement of Jesus Christ demonstrate Heavenly Father’s love?
- Why does Elder Stevenson connect the fruit with ordinances and covenants?
- What is the difference between temporary pleasure and the joy represented by the fruit?
- Why might some people struggle to recognize the desirability of the gospel?
- How can our experiences with Jesus Christ deepen our appreciation for His love?
- What blessings of the restored gospel have become especially meaningful to you?
- How does Lehi’s vision help us understand the purpose of mortality?
- What can we do to make the blessings of the gospel a greater priority in our lives?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Fruit Display
Materials: Several varieties of fruit.
Instructions: Display the fruit and invite sisters to describe what makes each one desirable.
Discuss how appearance alone does not reveal everything about its taste.
Spiritual application: The blessings of the gospel become more meaningful as we experience them personally.
Object Lesson 2: The Tree and the Roots
Materials: Picture of a fruit tree showing its roots.
Instructions: Discuss how roots support the tree and allow it to produce fruit.
Spiritual application: Our relationship with Jesus Christ is central to receiving the blessings of the gospel.
Object Lesson 3: The Gift of Fruit
Materials: Basket of fruit.
Instructions: Offer a piece of fruit to a volunteer.
Discuss the difference between being offered something and choosing to receive it.
Spiritual application: Heavenly Father offers blessings through Jesus Christ, and we exercise agency in responding to His invitations.
Object Lesson 4: The Fruit Tree’s Growth
Materials: Pictures showing a tree at different stages of growth.
Instructions: Arrange the pictures chronologically.
Spiritual application: Spiritual growth and the blessings of covenant discipleship develop over time.
Object Lesson 5: The Sweet and the Sour
Materials: Pictures of sweet and sour fruit.
Instructions: Discuss how different flavors create different experiences.
Spiritual application: Worldly pleasures and the lasting joy of the gospel are not always the same.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share an experience when you felt the love of God.
- Describe a time when the Atonement of Jesus Christ became more meaningful to you.
- Tell about a gospel blessing that has brought lasting joy.
- Share how your understanding of Lehi’s vision has changed.
- Describe an experience when making or keeping a covenant strengthened your relationship with Heavenly Father.
- Tell about someone who helped you recognize the sweetness of the gospel.
- Share a time when you felt spiritually nourished through Jesus Christ.
- Describe a gospel truth that has become more precious to you over time.
- Tell about a moment when you recognized the difference between temporary happiness and lasting joy.
- Share what the fruit of the tree of life represents in your personal discipleship.
Section 3: Gospel Truths Become Sweet as We Live Them
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson compares the experience of tasting fruit with personally living gospel principles.
He explains:
“But once we have tasted it, we know how much we like it.”
He then applies this comparison to the gospel:
“Gospel truths are the same.”
Understanding the Doctrine
This section introduces one of the most important principles in Elder Stevenson’s talk.
Knowing about the gospel is not the same as personally experiencing its blessings.
We can learn about prayer without developing a meaningful relationship with Heavenly Father.
We can study repentance without fully appreciating the peace that comes through forgiveness.
We can understand the importance of service without recognizing the joy that comes from helping others.
But as we act on gospel truths, they become more meaningful.
The Savior taught a similar principle in John 7:17, explaining that those who choose to do God’s will can come to know the truth of His doctrine.
Spiritual understanding often grows through obedience and experience.
This does not mean that every gospel principle will immediately feel easy or joyful.
Some blessings become apparent only after continued faith and patience.
But living the gospel allows us to develop a personal testimony that goes beyond what we have heard from others.
We begin to know for ourselves.
Teaching Focus: Moving From Gospel Knowledge to Gospel Experience
Invite sisters to consider which gospel truths have become sweeter through personal experience.
Encourage them to recognize that testimony often grows through consistent application.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- What is the difference between knowing a gospel principle and experiencing its blessings?
- Why is tasting fruit an effective comparison for living the gospel?
- How does personal experience strengthen testimony?
- Why might some gospel truths become sweeter over time?
- What role does obedience play in spiritual understanding?
- How can we move beyond simply hearing gospel teachings?
- Why is it important to develop a personal testimony rather than relying entirely on someone else’s?
- What can we learn from John 7:17 about gaining spiritual knowledge?
- How can we help children and youth experience gospel truths personally?
- What gospel principle could become more meaningful if we applied it more intentionally?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Fruit Tasting
Materials: Small samples of different fruits.
Instructions: Invite willing participants to taste the fruit.
Discuss how describing a flavor differs from experiencing it.
Spiritual application: Living gospel truths allows us to personally experience their blessings.
Object Lesson 2: The Recipe
Materials: Recipe card and a picture of the finished dish.
Instructions: Discuss the difference between reading a recipe and preparing the food.
Spiritual application: Gospel knowledge becomes transformative through action.
Object Lesson 3: The Bicycle
Materials: Picture of a bicycle.
Instructions: Discuss how reading about riding a bicycle differs from learning to ride one.
Spiritual application: Some spiritual understanding develops through practice.
Object Lesson 4: The Unopened Book
Materials: Book.
Instructions: Show the cover and discuss how much can be learned without opening it.
Spiritual application: We discover greater gospel understanding as we engage with its teachings.
Object Lesson 5: The Planting Experiment
Materials: Seeds, soil, and small containers.
Instructions: Plant a seed and discuss what must happen before it grows.
Spiritual application: Faith grows as we act on gospel principles and patiently observe the results.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share a gospel principle that became more meaningful after you lived it.
- Describe an experience when obedience strengthened your testimony.
- Tell about a time when prayer became more personal.
- Share how your understanding of repentance has changed through experience.
- Describe a moment when serving someone brought unexpected joy.
- Tell about a gospel truth you initially understood intellectually but later felt spiritually.
- Share an experience when consistent effort brought spiritual growth.
- Describe a time when keeping a covenant strengthened your faith.
- Tell about someone whose example encouraged you to live a gospel principle.
- Share what it means to you to personally taste the sweetness of the gospel.
Section 4: Our Most Important Identity Is That We Are Children of Heavenly Father
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson introduces the first of his three gospel fruits:
“First, we are children of a loving Heavenly Father.”
He emphasizes the personal nature of our relationship with God:
“Heavenly Father knows us personally.”
And he identifies the importance of this truth:
“This is your most important identity.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson identifies our divine identity as the first fruit of the gospel.
We are children of a loving Heavenly Father.
This truth provides a foundation for understanding our worth, purpose, and eternal potential.
Our identity as children of God exists independently of our earthly circumstances.
It is not dependent on our accomplishments, appearance, financial situation, marital status, education, or perceived success.
We belong to Heavenly Father.
He knows us personally.
And He wants us to become like Him.
This knowledge can influence the way we see ourselves.
When we feel inadequate or discouraged, remembering our divine identity can help us recognize that our worth is eternal.
It also changes the way we see others.
If every person is a child of Heavenly Father, then every person possesses divine worth.
Recognizing this truth can help us become more compassionate, patient, and loving.
Teaching Focus: Divine Identity as the Foundation of Self-Worth
Invite sisters to consider how understanding their identity as daughters of God influences their confidence, relationships, and choices.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why does Elder Stevenson describe our identity as children of God as our most important identity?
- How does knowing Heavenly Father personally loves us influence our self-worth?
- What worldly identities sometimes compete with our divine identity?
- How can remembering that we are daughters of God help us during discouraging seasons?
- Why is it important that Heavenly Father knows us individually?
- How does our divine identity influence the way we make decisions?
- What does it mean that Heavenly Father wants us to become like Him?
- How can we help children develop confidence in their divine identity?
- How does recognizing others as children of God influence our relationships?
- What would change if we consistently viewed ourselves and others through the lens of divine identity?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Identity Labels
Materials: Sticky notes with labels such as “Mother,” “Student,” “Employee,” “Friend,” and “Daughter of God.”
Instructions: Discuss how earthly roles can change throughout life.
Identify which identity remains constant.
Spiritual application: Our divine identity is eternal.
Object Lesson 2: The Mirror
Materials: Mirror.
Instructions: Invite sisters to consider what they notice when they look in a mirror.
Discuss the difference between outward appearance and eternal worth.
Spiritual application: Heavenly Father sees us as His beloved children.
Object Lesson 3: The Family Tree
Materials: Simple family tree diagram.
Instructions: Discuss how family relationships help shape identity.
Spiritual application: Our relationship with Heavenly Father is foundational to who we are.
Object Lesson 4: The Valuable Coin
Materials: Coin.
Instructions: Show a coin and discuss whether its value changes because it becomes dirty or scratched.
Spiritual application: Our divine worth does not disappear because of imperfections or difficult circumstances.
Object Lesson 5: The Name Card
Materials: Blank cards.
Instructions: Invite sisters to write their names and the words “Daughter of Heavenly Father.”
Spiritual application: Remembering our divine identity can strengthen our confidence and faith.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share a time when remembering your divine identity strengthened you.
- Describe an experience when you felt Heavenly Father’s personal love.
- Tell about someone who helped you recognize your worth.
- Share how your understanding of being a daughter of God has changed.
- Describe a moment when your divine identity influenced a decision.
- Tell about a time when you helped someone recognize their worth.
- Share a scripture or hymn that strengthens your understanding of divine identity.
- Describe how motherhood, friendship, or service has influenced your understanding of God’s love.
- Tell about a time when you felt the Holy Ghost testify that you are a child of God.
- Share what it means to you that Heavenly Father knows you personally.
Section 5: Knowing We Are Children of God Brings Comfort During Difficult Times
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson shares an experience from a devotional in South America following a severe earthquake.
He recalls a young Primary boy who joined him in singing “I Am a Child of God.”
Elder Stevenson describes the spiritual significance of that moment:
“This testimony was so important and powerful, inviting the Spirit to comfort and testify to all that we are children of a loving Heavenly Father, even in the most difficult of times.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson demonstrates that the doctrine of divine identity is not merely an encouraging statement.
It can become a source of spiritual strength during suffering.
At the devotional, many members were struggling because of a severe earthquake.
They had experienced uncertainty, loss, and hardship.
Yet the simple testimony of a young child helped invite the Holy Ghost.
As the congregation sang “I Am a Child of God,” they were reminded of a truth that remained unchanged despite their circumstances.
They were still children of Heavenly Father.
He still loved them.
And they were not forgotten.
This experience teaches us that the knowledge of our divine identity can provide comfort even when life becomes difficult.
Being a child of God does not exempt us from trials.
But it assures us that our Heavenly Father knows us and cares about our eternal welfare.
Elder Stevenson also references Romans 8:16, which teaches that the Spirit bears witness that we are children of God.
The Holy Ghost can help us feel the truth of this doctrine in personal and powerful ways.
Teaching Focus: Finding Strength in Unchanging Truths
Invite sisters to consider which gospel truths remain constant when circumstances change.
Discuss how the Holy Ghost can testify of Heavenly Father’s love during difficult seasons.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why was the testimony of a young child especially meaningful during this devotional?
- How can simple gospel truths provide comfort during significant trials?
- Why is it important to remember our divine identity when circumstances feel uncertain?
- What does Romans 8:16 teach about the role of the Holy Ghost?
- How can music invite the Spirit and strengthen testimony?
- Why might familiar Primary songs become more meaningful as we grow older?
- How can we help others remember Heavenly Father’s love during hardship?
- What is the difference between knowing that God loves us and feeling that love personally?
- How can we recognize spiritual comfort even when our circumstances remain difficult?
- What gospel truths have helped you remain spiritually grounded during trials?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Anchor
Materials: Picture or small model of an anchor.
Instructions: Discuss how an anchor helps keep a boat secure.
Spiritual application: Our divine identity can provide spiritual stability during difficult times.
Object Lesson 2: The Unchanging Foundation
Materials: Building blocks and sturdy board.
Instructions: Build a small structure on the board.
Discuss the importance of a strong foundation.
Spiritual application: Eternal truths provide strength when circumstances change.
Object Lesson 3: The Familiar Song
Materials: Hymnbook or Children’s Songbook.
Instructions: Invite the class to sing or read the words of “I Am a Child of God.”
Spiritual application: Sacred music can invite the Holy Ghost and strengthen testimony.
Object Lesson 4: The Lighthouse
Materials: Picture of a lighthouse.
Instructions: Discuss how a lighthouse provides direction during storms.
Spiritual application: Heavenly Father’s love remains constant during life’s challenges.
Object Lesson 5: The Family Photograph
Materials: Family photograph.
Instructions: Discuss how family relationships remain meaningful even when family members are physically separated.
Spiritual application: Our relationship with Heavenly Father remains real even when we feel distant or discouraged.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share a time when knowing you were a child of God brought comfort.
- Describe an experience when sacred music strengthened your testimony.
- Tell about a time when a child taught you a meaningful spiritual lesson.
- Share how the Holy Ghost has helped you feel Heavenly Father’s love.
- Describe a difficult season when a simple gospel truth sustained you.
- Tell about someone who reminded you of your divine worth.
- Share an experience when a Primary song became especially meaningful.
- Describe how your testimony helped you navigate uncertainty.
- Tell about a time when you felt spiritual peace despite difficult circumstances.
- Share what Romans 8:16 means to you personally.
Section 6: Heavenly Father’s Plan of Happiness Offers Hope Beyond Death
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson introduces the second fruit of the gospel:
“Second, the great plan of happiness through Jesus Christ.”
He then recounts an experience ministering to a Buddhist temple priest whose wife had died.
Elder Stevenson describes the change he witnessed as the man learned about God’s plan:
“We witnessed a miraculous transformation: peace for despair, joy for sadness, hope for ashes.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson shares a deeply moving experience from his time living in Japan.
He had developed a friendship with a Buddhist temple priest.
When the priest’s wife passed away, the man experienced profound grief.
Elder Stevenson and a friend visited him to offer comfort.
During their conversation, they shared truths about life after death and Heavenly Father’s plan for His children.
They explained that death does not mark the end of our existence.
The Book of Mormon teaches in Alma 40:11–12 that the spirits of the righteous enter a state of happiness, rest, and peace.
This knowledge offered the grieving man a perspective he had not previously considered.
Elder Stevenson describes the transformation that occurred as the man received these teachings.
His experience illustrates how the plan of salvation can provide hope during grief.
The gospel does not teach that sorrow is unnecessary or that faithful people should never mourn.
Rather, it offers eternal perspective.
Because of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection, death is not permanent.
And through Heavenly Father’s plan, we can look forward with hope to blessings beyond mortality.
Teaching Focus: Finding Eternal Perspective Through the Plan of Salvation
Invite sisters to consider how understanding life after death influences the way they experience grief and uncertainty.
Approach this discussion with sensitivity, recognizing that some class members may be navigating recent losses.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why does Elder Stevenson describe the plan of salvation as a fruit that brings happiness?
- What made the teachings about life after death meaningful to the grieving priest?
- How does the plan of salvation provide hope during grief?
- What does Alma 40 teach us about the spirit world?
- Why is the Resurrection of Jesus Christ essential to Heavenly Father’s plan?
- How can eternal perspective influence the way we experience loss?
- Why is it important to recognize that faith and grief can exist together?
- How can we share gospel truths with someone who is grieving without minimizing their sorrow?
- What does this experience teach about the power of ministering?
- How does knowing that death is not the end influence your relationship with Jesus Christ?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Timeline
Materials: Long strip of paper representing eternity and a small marked section representing mortality.
Instructions: Discuss how mortal life fits within Heavenly Father’s eternal plan.
Spiritual application: Eternal perspective can help us understand life’s challenges differently.
Object Lesson 2: The Seed and the Plant
Materials: Seed and mature plant.
Instructions: Compare the seed with what it can become.
Spiritual application: Death is not the end of our eternal existence.
Object Lesson 3: The Closed Door and Open Door
Materials: Picture of a closed door and an open door.
Instructions: Discuss how something that appears to be an ending may also represent a transition.
Spiritual application: Heavenly Father’s plan extends beyond mortal life.
Object Lesson 4: The Family Photograph
Materials: Family photograph.
Instructions: Discuss the importance of family relationships and the hope offered through temple covenants.
Spiritual application: God’s plan includes the possibility of eternal family relationships through Jesus Christ.
Object Lesson 5: The Light Beyond the Horizon
Materials: Picture of a sunrise.
Instructions: Discuss how the sun remains present even when it is not visible.
Spiritual application: The promises of Jesus Christ provide hope beyond what we can currently see.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share how the plan of salvation has brought you hope.
- Describe a time when eternal perspective helped you face uncertainty.
- Tell about a scripture that has strengthened your testimony of life after death.
- Share how your understanding of the Resurrection has grown.
- Describe an experience when someone ministered to you during a difficult time.
- Tell about a time when you felt comfort through gospel truths.
- Share how temple covenants have influenced your understanding of eternity.
- Describe a moment when the Holy Ghost strengthened your hope.
- Tell about someone whose faith in Heavenly Father’s plan has inspired you.
- Share what the phrase “great plan of happiness” means to you.
Section 7: Jesus Christ Makes Happiness, Forgiveness, and Eternal Progress Possible
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson emphasizes the central role of Jesus Christ in Heavenly Father’s plan.
He teaches:
“Central to this plan is the Atonement of Jesus Christ.”
He also reminds us:
“This is why Jesus Christ is the strength of youth.”
Understanding the Doctrine
After describing the hope offered through Heavenly Father’s plan, Elder Stevenson explains why Jesus Christ is central to that plan.
Without the Savior’s Atonement and Resurrection, we could not overcome sin and death.
Through Jesus Christ, repentance and forgiveness are possible.
We can change, grow, and continue progressing toward eternal life.
Elder Stevenson reminds listeners that even when we make mistakes, feel discouraged, or question whether we will ever be good enough, there is hope through the Savior.
This message is especially meaningful for Relief Society sisters who may struggle with perfectionism, discouragement, or feelings of inadequacy.
Sometimes we mistakenly believe that spiritual progress depends entirely on our own efforts.
We may feel overwhelmed by expectations or discouraged by repeated weaknesses.
But the gospel teaches that salvation and exaltation are possible through Jesus Christ.
Our efforts to follow Him matter, but we cannot redeem ourselves.
We need His grace, mercy, and enabling power.
The Savior does not merely show us the path.
He makes the path home possible.
Teaching Focus: Recognizing Jesus Christ as the Center of the Plan
Invite sisters to consider how their understanding of the Atonement influences their feelings about repentance, progress, and personal worth.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why is Jesus Christ central to Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness?
- What blessings are made possible through the Savior’s Atonement?
- How does understanding grace change the way we approach spiritual growth?
- Why do faithful disciples sometimes struggle with feelings of inadequacy?
- How can we distinguish righteous striving from unhealthy perfectionism?
- What does it mean that Jesus Christ is our strength?
- How does repentance allow us to continue progressing?
- Why is the Resurrection essential to our eternal happiness?
- How can we help others understand that mistakes do not eliminate their potential for growth?
- How does the Savior’s love give you hope for your future?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Bridge
Materials: Blocks and a board.
Instructions: Create a gap between two surfaces and use the board to bridge it.
Spiritual application: Jesus Christ makes it possible for us to return to Heavenly Father.
Object Lesson 2: The Helping Hand
Materials: Picture of one person helping another climb.
Instructions: Discuss the difference between attempting a difficult task alone and receiving needed help.
Spiritual application: The Savior provides strength we cannot generate entirely on our own.
Object Lesson 3: The Eraser
Materials: Pencil and eraser.
Instructions: Write a mistake on paper and erase it.
Clarify that repentance involves turning toward Christ, making changes, and seeking forgiveness rather than simply pretending mistakes never happened.
Spiritual application: Through Jesus Christ, we can repent and receive forgiveness.
Object Lesson 4: The Broken and Repaired Object
Materials: Picture of an object before and after repair.
Instructions: Discuss how restoration can make something useful again.
Spiritual application: The Savior’s redeeming power makes change and healing possible.
Object Lesson 5: The Centerpiece
Materials: Several objects arranged around a picture of Jesus Christ.
Instructions: Place the picture at the center and discuss how the surrounding objects relate to it.
Spiritual application: Jesus Christ is central to Heavenly Father’s plan.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share a time when the Atonement of Jesus Christ became more meaningful to you.
- Describe an experience when the Savior strengthened you.
- Tell about a time when repentance brought peace.
- Share how your understanding of grace has changed.
- Describe a moment when you felt hope despite personal weaknesses.
- Tell about a scripture that reminds you of the Savior’s redeeming power.
- Share an experience when you learned to rely more fully on Jesus Christ.
- Describe how the Resurrection influences your testimony.
- Tell about someone whose testimony of the Savior has strengthened yours.
- Share what it means to you that Jesus Christ makes eternal progress possible.
Section 8: The Gift of the Holy Ghost Provides Constant Spiritual Companionship
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson introduces the third fruit of the gospel:
“Finally, a most delicious fruit for Latter-day Saints is the gift of the Holy Ghost, His constant companionship.”
He explains that the Holy Ghost’s roles include:
“to warn, to comfort, and to testify.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson identifies the gift of the Holy Ghost as the third fruit of the gospel.
Following baptism, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints receive the gift of the Holy Ghost through confirmation by the laying on of hands.
This gift provides the opportunity to enjoy the companionship of the Holy Ghost as we live worthily and seek His influence.
The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead.
He testifies of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
He can warn us of danger, comfort us during difficulties, and help us recognize truth.
These blessings are deeply personal.
The Holy Ghost can influence our thoughts, feelings, and decisions.
He can bring peace during uncertainty.
He can strengthen our testimony.
And He can help us recognize opportunities to serve others.
Elder Stevenson references the Primary song “I Know My Father Lives,” which teaches that the Spirit whispers truth to us.
This simple testimony reminds us that the Holy Ghost helps us develop personal spiritual knowledge.
Teaching Focus: Recognizing the Holy Ghost’s Influence
Invite sisters to consider how the Holy Ghost has warned, comforted, or testified to them.
Emphasize that spiritual experiences vary and that the Holy Ghost often communicates through quiet impressions.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why does Elder Stevenson describe the gift of the Holy Ghost as a delicious fruit of the gospel?
- What is the difference between the influence of the Holy Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost?
- How does the Holy Ghost testify of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?
- What are some ways the Spirit can warn us?
- How does the Holy Ghost provide comfort during difficult times?
- Why is it important to learn how we personally recognize spiritual impressions?
- How can we create an environment that invites the Holy Ghost?
- What can we do when we feel spiritually distant?
- How does the sacrament help us remember the promise of the Spirit’s companionship?
- How can recognizing the Holy Ghost’s influence deepen our gratitude for the restored gospel?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Compass
Materials: Compass.
Instructions: Demonstrate how a compass provides direction.
Spiritual application: The Holy Ghost can guide us as we make decisions.
Object Lesson 2: The Warning Sign
Materials: Printed warning sign.
Instructions: Discuss how warnings help us avoid danger.
Spiritual application: The Holy Ghost can warn us spiritually and prompt us to make wise choices.
Object Lesson 3: The Comforting Blanket
Materials: Blanket.
Instructions: Discuss how a blanket provides warmth and comfort.
Spiritual application: The Holy Ghost is known as the Comforter.
Object Lesson 4: The Quiet Sound
Materials: Small bell or quiet musical instrument.
Instructions: Make a soft sound and ask sisters what helped them hear it.
Spiritual application: Recognizing the Holy Ghost often requires attentiveness.
Object Lesson 5: The Light
Materials: Battery-operated candle.
Instructions: Turn on the candle in a dim room.
Spiritual application: The Holy Ghost can illuminate our understanding and testify of truth.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share an experience when the Holy Ghost comforted you.
- Describe a time when you recognized a spiritual warning.
- Tell about a moment when the Spirit strengthened your testimony.
- Share how you have learned to recognize personal revelation.
- Describe an experience when the Holy Ghost guided an important decision.
- Tell about someone who taught you to listen for the Spirit.
- Share a time when sacred music invited the Holy Ghost.
- Describe how the sacrament has strengthened your relationship with the Spirit.
- Tell about a scripture that helped you understand the Holy Ghost’s role.
- Share what the gift of the Holy Ghost means to you personally.
Section 9: Experiencing Gospel Joy Creates a Desire to Share It With Others
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
In his conclusion, Elder Stevenson returns to Lehi’s vision and the joy that came from partaking of the fruit.
He explains:
“When Lehi partook of the fruit in his dream, he said, ‘It filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also.’”
Elder Stevenson then applies this principle to our relationships:
“Similarly, consider how your family, friends, and loved ones will be blessed to partake of the fruit that blesses you.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson highlights an important detail in Lehi’s vision.
After Lehi partook of the fruit and experienced its sweetness, he immediately desired to share it with his family.
His first response was not to keep the experience to himself.
He wanted those he loved to experience the same joy.
This illustrates a natural result of genuine conversion.
As the gospel becomes meaningful to us, we develop a greater desire to share its blessings with others.
This does not mean every gospel conversation must become a formal missionary discussion.
Sharing the gospel can happen through simple conversations, personal experiences, invitations, and acts of love.
Sometimes we share a scripture that strengthened us.
Sometimes we invite a friend to a Church activity.
Sometimes we explain how prayer or faith has helped us through a challenge.
The most meaningful invitations often come from sincere love.
Lehi’s desire to share the fruit was rooted in the joy he had personally experienced.
Likewise, our desire to share the gospel can grow as we recognize its blessings in our own lives.
Teaching Focus: Sharing From Personal Experience
Invite sisters to consider how sharing the gospel becomes more natural when it grows from gratitude and love.
Emphasize that others retain their agency and should never feel pressured to accept an invitation.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why did Lehi immediately want his family to partake of the fruit?
- What does his response teach us about genuine gospel joy?
- How does personal conversion influence our desire to share the gospel?
- Why are personal experiences often powerful ways to share testimony?
- What sometimes prevents us from inviting others to experience gospel blessings?
- How can we share the gospel naturally in everyday conversations?
- Why should love be the motivation behind our invitations?
- How can we respect someone’s agency while still extending invitations?
- What blessings of the gospel do you most want your loved ones to experience?
- How can sharing the gospel deepen our own appreciation for it?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Shared Fruit
Materials: Basket of fruit.
Instructions: Offer fruit to several volunteers.
Discuss why we naturally want to share something we enjoy.
Spiritual application: Experiencing gospel joy can create a desire to share it with others.
Object Lesson 2: The Candle
Materials: Several battery-operated candles.
Instructions: Turn on one candle, then several more.
Spiritual application: Sharing testimony can help others recognize spiritual light.
Object Lesson 3: The Favorite Recipe
Materials: Recipe card.
Instructions: Discuss why people share recipes they enjoy.
Spiritual application: Sharing the gospel can be a natural expression of gratitude.
Object Lesson 4: The Invitation Card
Materials: Blank invitation cards.
Instructions: Invite sisters to consider a simple, sincere invitation they could extend.
Spiritual application: Gospel sharing often begins with small invitations.
Object Lesson 5: The Overflowing Cup
Materials: Cup, pitcher, and tray.
Instructions: Pour water into a cup until it overflows into the tray.
Spiritual application: Gratitude for gospel blessings can inspire us to bless others.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share a time when you wanted someone else to experience a gospel blessing you had received.
- Describe an experience when you shared your testimony naturally.
- Tell about someone who invited you to participate in a meaningful gospel experience.
- Share how your understanding of missionary work has changed.
- Describe a time when a simple invitation strengthened a relationship.
- Tell about someone whose joy in the gospel inspired you.
- Share an experience when you felt prompted to reach out to someone.
- Describe a time when sharing a scripture or spiritual experience helped another person.
- Tell about a blessing of the gospel you are especially grateful for.
- Share what Lehi’s desire to share the fruit teaches you about love.
Section 10: Love, Share, and Invite—Helping Others Experience the Joy of the Gospel
Direct Quotes from Elder Stevenson
Elder Stevenson concludes with a simple invitation:
“I invite you to do something that is as simple as gospel fruit is delicious: love, share, and invite.”
He also promises that sharing gospel blessings can bring greater joy:
“As you do so, I promise that you will not only feel joy and happiness that comes as you partake of fruit of the gospel but even greater joy as loved ones around you partake as well.”
Understanding the Doctrine
Elder Stevenson concludes by offering a practical pattern for sharing the gospel.
Love.
Share.
Invite.
These three actions provide a simple approach to helping others experience the blessings of Jesus Christ.
Love is the foundation.
Before extending invitations or sharing beliefs, we can develop genuine relationships.
We can listen, serve, encourage, and demonstrate that people matter to us regardless of whether they share our beliefs.
Share involves communicating what the gospel means to us.
We can share personal experiences, scriptures, testimonies, or examples of how Jesus Christ has strengthened us.
Invite gives others opportunities to experience gospel blessings personally.
We might invite someone to attend church, participate in a service project, study a scripture, pray, or learn more about Jesus Christ.
The purpose is not simply to increase participation in Church activities.
It is to help others discover the joy that comes through the Savior.
Elder Stevenson also teaches that sharing these blessings can increase our own happiness.
This reflects the joy that comes from loving others and participating in Heavenly Father’s work.
Teaching Focus: Making Gospel Sharing Simple and Personal
Invite sisters to identify practical ways to love, share, and invite within their existing relationships.
Emphasize that meaningful invitations begin with genuine love and respect.
10 Relief Society Discussion Questions
- Why do you think Elder Stevenson chose the simple invitation to love, share, and invite?
- How does genuine love influence the way we share the gospel?
- What does it mean to share the gospel naturally?
- Why is it important to build relationships rather than focus only on invitations?
- How can we recognize opportunities to share personal testimony?
- What are some simple invitations that do not feel overwhelming?
- How can we respond with love when someone declines an invitation?
- Why can sharing the gospel increase our own joy?
- How can families practice loving, sharing, and inviting together?
- What is one specific way you could apply this invitation during the coming week?
5 Object Lesson Ideas
Object Lesson 1: The Three-Step Path
Materials: Three pieces of paper labeled “Love,” “Share,” and “Invite.”
Instructions: Place the papers on the floor in a pathway.
Discuss how each step contributes to helping others experience the gospel.
Spiritual application: Gospel sharing begins with love and leads to meaningful opportunities.
Object Lesson 2: The Fruit Basket
Materials: Basket containing several pieces of fruit.
Instructions: Invite sisters to select a piece of fruit they would enjoy sharing.
Discuss how sharing something good can bring happiness.
Spiritual application: We can invite others to experience the blessings of the gospel.
Object Lesson 3: The Friendship Circle
Materials: String.
Instructions: Invite volunteers to stand in a circle and pass the string between them.
Discuss how relationships create opportunities for connection.
Spiritual application: Genuine friendships provide a foundation for sharing the gospel.
Object Lesson 4: The Open Door
Materials: Picture of an open door.
Instructions: Discuss how an invitation opens an opportunity without forcing someone to enter.
Spiritual application: We can invite others while respecting their agency.
Object Lesson 5: The Joy Jar
Materials: Jar and slips of paper.
Instructions: Invite sisters to write examples of gospel blessings that have brought them joy.
Place the slips in the jar.
Discuss how these experiences could become natural opportunities to share testimony.
Spiritual application: Recognizing our blessings can inspire us to share them.
10 Personal Sharing Prompts
- Share a time when loving someone created an opportunity to discuss the gospel.
- Describe an experience when you shared a spiritual blessing with another person.
- Tell about a simple invitation that made a meaningful difference.
- Share how someone else’s invitation influenced your life.
- Describe a time when you felt joy from helping someone come closer to Jesus Christ.
- Tell about someone who models genuine love in missionary work.
- Share an experience when a gospel conversation happened naturally.
- Describe how your family has practiced loving, sharing, or inviting.
- Tell about a time when you learned to respect someone’s agency while sharing your beliefs.
- Share one way you hope to apply Elder Stevenson’s invitation.
Additional Relief Society Teaching Activities
Opening Activity: What Makes the Fruit Sweet?
Bring several varieties of fruit to class.
Invite sisters to describe their favorite fruits and explain what makes them enjoyable.
Then ask:
How would you explain the taste of your favorite fruit to someone who has never tried it?
Allow a few sisters to respond.
Next, ask:
Would describing the fruit give someone the same understanding as actually tasting it?
Use this discussion to introduce Elder Stevenson’s teaching that gospel truths become sweeter as we live them.
Explain that the lesson will focus on three gospel blessings and how personally experiencing them can bring lasting joy.
Scripture Study: Lehi’s Vision of the Tree of Life
Read selected passages from 1 Nephi 8 and 1 Nephi 11.
Focus on:
1 Nephi 8:10–12: Lehi discovers the tree, partakes of the fruit, and experiences joy.
1 Nephi 8:12: Lehi desires to share the fruit with his family.
1 Nephi 11:21–23: Nephi learns about the love of God and its connection to the tree.
Invite sisters to identify the relationship between God’s love, Jesus Christ, and the fruit.
Ask:
What made the fruit desirable?
Why did Lehi want his family to partake?
How can we personally experience the love of God?
What blessings of Jesus Christ have brought sweetness into our lives?
Class Activity: Three Fruits of the Gospel
Write three headings on the board:
| Divine Identity | Plan of Happiness | Gift of the Holy Ghost |
|---|---|---|
| We are children of Heavenly Father. | Jesus Christ makes eternal joy possible. | The Spirit warns, comforts, and testifies. |
| We have eternal worth. | Death is not the end. | We can receive personal guidance. |
| Heavenly Father knows us personally. | Repentance and forgiveness are possible. | The Holy Ghost strengthens testimony. |
| We have divine potential. | The Resurrection brings hope. | Spiritual companionship brings peace. |
Invite sisters to identify blessings they have personally experienced through each gospel truth.
Encourage them to consider how these blessings have influenced their relationship with Jesus Christ.
Closing Activity: My Gospel Fruit
Give each sister a small piece of paper.
Invite her to complete the following statements privately:
One gospel truth that has become sweeter to me is…
One blessing I have experienced through Jesus Christ is…
One person I could bless by loving, sharing, or inviting is…
Allow time for reflection.
Invite willing sisters to share an insight.
Encourage everyone to act on one prompting during the coming week.
Conclusion: Finding Lasting Joy Through the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Elder Gary E. Stevenson’s General Conference talk, “Fruit to Make One Happy,” reminds us that the gospel is not simply a collection of beliefs or commandments.
It is Heavenly Father’s plan to help His children experience lasting happiness and eternal joy through Jesus Christ.
Using the imagery of Lehi’s tree of life, Elder Stevenson teaches that gospel truths become sweeter as we personally experience their blessings.
Just as we cannot fully understand the sweetness of fruit without tasting it, we cannot fully appreciate the joy of the gospel without living it.
Our Divine Identity Provides a Foundation for Joy
The first fruit Elder Stevenson identifies is the knowledge that we are children of a loving Heavenly Father.
This truth reminds us of our eternal worth.
It teaches us that Heavenly Father knows us personally.
And it helps us recognize the divine potential of every person around us.
When we remember who we are, we can approach life’s challenges with greater confidence and treat others with greater compassion.
Heavenly Father’s Plan Provides Hope Through Jesus Christ
The second fruit is the great plan of happiness.
Through Jesus Christ, we can repent, receive forgiveness, overcome death through the Resurrection, and continue progressing eternally.
This knowledge provides hope during difficult seasons.
It reminds us that mortal life is only one part of our eternal journey.
And it assures us that the Savior’s Atonement makes lasting joy possible.
The Holy Ghost Helps Us Experience God’s Love Personally
The third fruit is the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Through His companionship, we can receive guidance, comfort, warnings, and testimony.
The Holy Ghost helps us recognize truth and strengthens our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
As we learn to recognize His influence, we can experience greater peace and spiritual confidence.
Gospel Joy Is Meant to Be Shared
Elder Stevenson concludes by returning to Lehi’s example.
After Lehi partook of the fruit, he wanted his family to experience the same joy.
Likewise, as the gospel becomes sweeter to us, we can develop a greater desire to share its blessings.
We do not need extraordinary opportunities to do this.
We can begin with the people already in our lives.
We can love them.
We can share meaningful experiences.
And we can invite them to discover the blessings of Jesus Christ for themselves.
Final Relief Society Reflection
Consider concluding your lesson with these three questions:
1. Which of the three fruits Elder Stevenson describes has brought the greatest joy into my life, and why?
2. Is there a gospel truth I understand intellectually but have not yet fully experienced through living it?
3. How can I help someone I love experience the sweetness of the gospel of Jesus Christ?
Invite sisters to reflect on their answers.
They might choose to strengthen their understanding of divine identity, study Heavenly Father’s plan, become more attentive to the Holy Ghost, or share a meaningful gospel experience with someone else.
The goal is not to add unnecessary pressure or create an overwhelming list of responsibilities.
It is to recognize one way to draw closer to Jesus Christ and experience greater joy through His gospel.
Final Invitation
The central message of “Fruit to Make One Happy” is that Heavenly Father wants His children to experience happiness.
He has given us a plan.
He has sent His Son, Jesus Christ.
And He has provided the gift of the Holy Ghost to guide and strengthen us.
These blessings are not reserved for a distant future.
We can begin experiencing them now.
As we remember our divine identity, trust the Savior’s Atonement, seek the companionship of the Holy Ghost, and share gospel blessings with others, we can experience the sweetness of Heavenly Father’s love.
The gospel of Jesus Christ becomes sweeter as we live it, and our joy can increase as we help others experience its blessings.
That is the invitation at the heart of Elder Stevenson’s message: to partake of the fruit, recognize its sweetness, and lovingly invite others to partake as well.
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