In this post, we’re gonna deep dive into the engaging questions, object lesson ideas, and personal sharing prompts that can be found throughout the October 2024 General Conference Talk, “Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion” by Elder D. Todd Christofferson.
In order to more easily digest all the information we could take from this talk, we’ll be separating it by sections, focusing on one point from the talk at a time.
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The Book of Mormon records that approximately 90 years before the birth of Christ, the sons of King Mosiah began what would be a 14-year mission to the Lamanites. Unsuccessful efforts had been made over many generations to bring the Lamanite people to a belief in the doctrine of Christ. This time, however, through the miraculous interventions of the Holy Spirit, thousands of the Lamanites were converted and became disciples of Jesus Christ.
We read, “And as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed, or as many as were brought to the knowledge of the truth, through the preaching of Ammon and his brethren, according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy, and the power of God working miracles in them—yea, I say unto you, as the Lord liveth, as many of the Lamanites as believed in their preaching, and were converted unto the Lord, never did fall away.”
The key to the enduring conversion of this people is stated in the next verse: “For they became a righteous people; they did lay down the weapons of their rebellion, that they did not fight against God any more, neither against any of their brethren.”
Engaging Questions:
- What do you think contributed to the success of Ammon and his brethren in converting the Lamanites when previous efforts had failed? How did the role of the Holy Spirit make a difference?
- How do you interpret the phrase, “as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed”? What does this say about the certainty of God’s promises in our own lives?
- What role does the power of revelation and prophecy play in bringing others to a knowledge of the truth? How have you seen these gifts operate in your own spiritual journey?
- Why do you think the Lamanites’ conversion was so enduring that they “never did fall away”? What elements of conversion are crucial for lasting faithfulness?
- How can we learn from the example of the Lamanites who “laid down the weapons of their rebellion”? What might this look like in our own lives when we seek to change and grow closer to God?
- What does it mean to “not fight against God any more”? How can we recognize when we are resisting His will and strive to align ourselves more fully with Him?
- How do you think the miracles performed by God through Ammon and his brethren influenced the Lamanites’ conversion? What role do miracles play in deepening our own faith?
- How can we support those around us in their journey to enduring conversion, helping them to become disciples of Jesus Christ?
- What can we do to foster a deeper sense of commitment and transformation in our own discipleship, similar to the Lamanites’ complete change of heart?
- How do you see the spirit of revelation and prophecy guiding the Church today? How can we be more open to receiving personal revelation in our lives?
- In what ways can laying down “weapons of rebellion” help us build better relationships with others and with God?
- How do you think the Lamanites’ decision to change and “not fight against any of their brethren” transformed their society? What impact can reconciliation and forgiveness have in our communities?
- How can we ensure that our conversion to the gospel remains strong and enduring? What practices help you maintain a deep commitment to your faith?
- How do the experiences of Ammon and his brethren inspire you in your efforts to share the gospel with others? What lessons can you apply to your own missionary efforts?
- What does this story teach you about the importance of letting go of past behaviors or attitudes that may hold you back from fully embracing discipleship in Christ?
Object Lessons:
Object Lessons:
- The Rock of Endurance
- Materials: A small rock.
- Activity: Use the rock to represent the enduring faith of the Lamanites. Discuss how their conversion became a firm foundation in their lives, just as a rock is unshakable. Emphasize how true conversion through the Holy Spirit helps us stay steady in our faith.
- The Dropped Stone
- Materials: A small stone or toy weapon.
- Activity: Drop the stone on the ground, symbolizing how the Lamanites laid down their weapons of rebellion. Discuss what “weapons” we might need to let go of—such as anger, pride, or bad habits—to fully follow Christ.
- The Light Bulb of Revelation
- Materials: A light bulb.
- Activity: Use the light bulb as a metaphor for the spirit of revelation that guided the Lamanites to conversion. Explain how just as light dispels darkness, the Holy Spirit can bring clarity and truth into our lives, leading to lasting change.
- The Shield of Faith
- Materials: A small shield or a picture of one.
- Activity: Show the shield and discuss how the Lamanites used to fight with weapons but later replaced their defense with the “shield” of faith in Jesus Christ. Talk about how faith in Christ protects us from spiritual dangers and helps us endure trials.
- The Broken Chains
- Materials: A chain or rope.
- Activity: Break or cut a chain or rope, representing the freedom that comes from repentance and laying down rebellion against God. Discuss how the Lamanites were spiritually freed when they accepted the gospel and how repentance can break the chains of our own struggles.
Activities:
- Weapons of Rebellion Reflection
- Materials: Paper, pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down things in their lives that might act as “weapons of rebellion” (e.g., bad habits, grudges). Encourage them to reflect on how they can lay these down, just as the Lamanites did, to become more devoted disciples of Christ.
- Conversion Timeline
- Materials: Large paper, markers.
- Activity: Create a timeline of the Lamanites’ conversion story, focusing on key events like the teachings of Ammon, their repentance, and their enduring commitment. Discuss how each step reflects stages of conversion and spiritual growth in our own lives.
- Testimony Circle: Enduring Faith
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Invite participants to share experiences when they felt their faith strengthened through the Holy Spirit. Discuss how these experiences have helped them remain true to their beliefs, just as the Lamanites did.
- Symbolic Burials
- Materials: A container with soil, small paper slips, pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down things they wish to “bury” or let go of, similar to how the Lamanites buried their weapons. Bury the slips in the soil, symbolizing their commitment to change and follow Christ more fully.
- Role-Playing the Mission
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Divide participants into groups and have them role-play the story of Ammon and the Lamanites’ conversion. Focus on the power of the Holy Spirit and how true conversion can lead to lasting change. Discuss how sharing the gospel can impact others.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you experienced a spiritual transformation that led you to change your heart and actions. How did this change bring you closer to the Savior and strengthen your commitment to Him?
Think of a time when you felt the power of the Holy Spirit working in your life, leading you to a deeper understanding of the gospel. How did this experience influence your conversion or help you overcome personal challenges?
Think of a time when you felt prompted to “lay down” a habit or mindset that was holding you back spiritually. How did letting go of this “weapon of rebellion” help you feel more at peace with God and with yourself?
Think of a time when you saw the influence of the Holy Spirit working in the life of someone close to you, leading them to a significant change. How did witnessing their transformation strengthen your own faith?
Think of a time when you experienced a lasting change in your faith, where you knew you would never “fall away” from what you had come to believe. What contributed to this enduring conversion?
Think of a time when you felt God’s power helping you turn away from behaviors or attitudes that were contrary to His teachings. How did this process of repentance impact your relationship with Him?
Think of a time when you made a conscious decision to be more peaceful and forgiving toward others, inspired by your commitment to Christ. How did this decision affect your relationships and your sense of discipleship?
Think of a time when you felt the Holy Spirit give you strength and courage to make a difficult but important change in your life. How did this change help you feel more aligned with God’s will?
Think of a time when you were inspired by the conversion story of someone in the scriptures or in your life. How did their example motivate you to seek a deeper conversion for yourself?
Think of a time when you felt the need to abandon a personal “weapon of rebellion” and seek reconciliation with God. What steps did you take, and how did this decision bring you greater spiritual peace?
This reference to “weapons of rebellion” was both literal and figurative. It meant their swords and other weapons of war but also their disobedience to God and His commandments.
The king of these converted Lamanites expressed it this way: “And now behold, my brethren, … it has been all that we could do … to repent of all our sins and the many murders which we have committed, and to get God to take them away from our hearts, for it was all we could do to repent sufficiently before God that he would take away our stain.”
Note the king’s words—not only had their sincere repentance led to forgiveness of their sins, but God also took away the stain of those sins and even the desire to sin from their hearts. As you know, rather than risk any possible return to their prior state of rebellion against God, they buried their swords. And as they buried their physical weapons, with changed hearts, they also buried their disposition to sin.
We might ask ourselves what we could do to follow this pattern, to “lay down the weapons of [our] rebellion,” whatever they may be, and become so “converted [to] the Lord” that the stain of sin and the desire for sin are taken from our hearts and we never will fall away.
Engaging Questions:
- What “weapons of rebellion” might we hold onto in our lives that keep us from fully following God’s will? How can we begin to lay them down?
- How do you interpret the idea of “weapons of rebellion” as being both literal and figurative? What does this mean for our daily actions and choices?
- The king of the converted Lamanites described their repentance as “all we could do.” How have you experienced the effort and commitment required for sincere repentance?
- How does the process of repentance lead to a changed heart? Can you share a time when repentance helped you feel a deeper connection with God?
- What does it mean to you to have the stain of sin removed from your heart, not just the guilt or consequences? How have you experienced this kind of spiritual renewal?
- Why do you think the converted Lamanites felt it was necessary to bury their physical weapons as a symbol of their commitment to God? How can we create our own symbols of commitment?
- How do you find strength to resist returning to past behaviors or attitudes that distance you from God? What helps you stay committed to your spiritual growth?
- How do you recognize when a change in your life is more than just a surface change but a transformation of the heart? What signs or feelings indicate this to you?
- How can we support each other in the effort to lay down our “weapons of rebellion” and strive for true conversion? What role does community play in this process?
- What helps you develop a genuine desire to repent and change? How do you overcome feelings of resistance or fear when facing the need for repentance?
- How do you apply the example of the converted Lamanites to your own life when you feel the need for a fresh start? What actions can help symbolize a new commitment to God?
- What is the difference between being forgiven of sins and having the desire to sin removed from your heart? How can we strive for this deeper transformation?
- How do you remind yourself to continue “burying” old habits or thoughts that may draw you back into spiritual rebellion? What practices help you maintain focus on your commitment to God?
- How do you see the connection between humility and the willingness to lay down “weapons” in our lives? Why is humility essential in the process of lasting change?
- How does this story of conversion inspire you in your own spiritual journey? What lessons from the Lamanites’ example can you apply to your current challenges?
Object Lessons:
- The Buried Swords
- Materials: A small shovel and a toy sword or stick.
- Activity: Bury the toy sword in a small container of soil, symbolizing the Lamanites burying their weapons. Discuss how we, too, can bury our “weapons of rebellion”—anything that keeps us from following God. Ask participants what habits or attitudes they might want to symbolically bury.
- The Stained Cloth
- Materials: A white cloth, dirt, water, soap.
- Activity: Stain the cloth with dirt, representing sin. Then wash it with soap and water, symbolizing repentance. Discuss how God can not only cleanse us from our sins but also remove the “stain” and even the desire for sin, as He did for the Lamanites.
- The Empty Box
- Materials: A small box.
- Activity: Place slips of paper inside the box with words like “anger,” “pride,” and “disobedience.” Explain how these represent our personal “weapons of rebellion.” Invite participants to remove a slip and discuss how they can work to let go of that specific “weapon” through repentance and seeking God’s help.
- The Broken Chain
- Materials: A chain or rope.
- Activity: Break or cut the chain, symbolizing how repentance breaks the bonds of sin. Discuss how the Lamanites broke free from their past by fully committing to God and burying their weapons. Reflect on how we can find freedom through sincere repentance.
- The Clean Slate
- Materials: A chalkboard or whiteboard.
- Activity: Write down examples of “weapons of rebellion” on the board (e.g., envy, gossip, selfishness). Erase the words one by one as you discuss the process of repentance and how God can remove not only the actions but the desire for these behaviors from our hearts.
Activities:
- Reflection Journal: What Is My Weapon?
- Materials: Journals, pens.
- Activity: Encourage participants to reflect in their journals about what personal “weapons of rebellion” they need to lay down. Ask them to write a plan for how they can work on burying these habits or attitudes through repentance.
- Group Discussion: Changed Hearts
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Discuss what it means to have a “changed heart” and how the Lamanites’ transformation went beyond just burying their physical weapons. Invite participants to share experiences when they felt a desire to change and how they experienced God’s help in doing so.
- Symbolic Burial Ceremony
- Materials: Paper, pens, a small box or container.
- Activity: Have participants write down something they want to let go of or repent from on a piece of paper. Place the papers in a small box or container and bury or cover it, symbolizing a commitment to leave those behaviors behind.
- Role-Playing Forgiveness
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: In small groups, have participants role-play scenarios where someone seeks forgiveness from God or others. Discuss how genuine repentance can lead to a change of heart and how we can support each other in that process.
- Steps of Repentance Path
- Materials: Large paper, markers, tape.
- Activity: Create a path on the floor with steps labeled with principles of repentance (e.g., “Recognize,” “Confess,” “Forsake,” “Ask for Forgiveness,” “Make Amends”). Have participants walk through the path, discussing each step and how it can help them lay down their own “weapons of rebellion.”
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you recognized a “weapon of rebellion” in your own life—something that kept you from fully following God. How did you work to lay it down, and what changes did you see as a result?
Think of a time when you experienced deep repentance for a mistake or sin. How did that process help you feel God’s forgiveness and take away the burden from your heart?
Think of a time when you felt a change in your heart that made you no longer desire to return to a previous behavior or mindset. What helped you experience this transformation, and how did it impact your faith?
Think of a time when you let go of a habit or attitude that was distancing you from God. How did this decision help you feel more connected to Him?
Think of a time when you felt that God removed a “stain” from your life—whether it was a burden, regret, or past mistake. How did this cleansing process bring you peace and a renewed desire to live righteously?
Think of a time when you were inspired by someone who chose to change their life and leave behind old ways. How did their example motivate you to make changes in your own life?
Think of a time when you felt prompted to bury a “sword” in your life, symbolizing a commitment to never return to a previous struggle or sin. What did this decision mean to you, and how did it affect your spiritual journey?
Think of a time when you felt the Lord changing your heart, helping you to overcome a weakness or temptation. How did this change help you become more converted to Him?
Think of a time when you realized that repentance wasn’t just about stopping a behavior but also about changing your desires. How did this deeper understanding influence your approach to repentance?
Think of a time when you let go of something that was holding you back and felt a new sense of freedom and peace. How did this experience help you grow closer to the Lord and find joy in His gospel?
Rebellion can be active or passive. The classic example of willful rebellion is Lucifer, who, in the premortal world, opposed the Father’s plan of redemption and rallied others to oppose it as well, “and, at that day, many followed after him.” It is not hard to discern the impact of his continuing rebellion in our own time.
The Book of Mormon’s unholy trio of anti-Christs—Sherem, Nehor, and Korihor—provide a classic study of active rebellion against God. The overarching thesis of Nehor and Korihor was that there is no sin; therefore, there is no need for repentance, and there is no Savior. “Every man prosper[s] according to his genius, and … every man conquer[s] according to his strength; and whatsoever a man [does is] no crime.” The anti-Christ rejects religious authority, characterizing ordinances and covenants as performances “laid down by ancient priests, to usurp power and authority.”
A latter-day example of willful rebellion with a happier ending is the story of William W. Phelps. Phelps joined the Church in 1831 and was appointed Church printer. He edited several early Church publications, wrote numerous hymns, and served as a scribe to Joseph Smith. Unfortunately, he turned against the Church and the Prophet, even to the point of giving false testimony against Joseph Smith in a Missouri court, which contributed to the Prophet’s imprisonment there.
Later, Phelps wrote to Joseph asking for forgiveness. “I know my situation, you know it, and God knows it, and I want to be saved if my friends will help me.”
In his reply the Prophet stated: “It is true that we have suffered much in consequence of your behavior. … However, the cup has been drunk, the will of our Heavenly Father has been done, and we are yet alive. … Come on, dear brother, since the war is past, for friends at first are friends again at last.”
With sincere repentance, William Phelps buried his “weapons of rebellion” and was received once more in full fellowship, never again to fall away.
Engaging Questions:
- How do you understand the difference between active and passive rebellion against God? Can you think of examples from your own life where you’ve encountered each?
- Why do you think active rebellion, like that of Lucifer or the anti-Christs in the Book of Mormon, is so damaging to spiritual growth? What can we learn from their examples?
- How do subtle or passive forms of rebellion manifest in our lives today? How can we recognize when we might be drifting away from God’s will?
- What stands out to you about William W. Phelps’s story of repentance and reconciliation? How does it inspire you to seek forgiveness and offer it to others?
- How can we discern when we are holding onto “weapons of rebellion” in our hearts, even if they are not outwardly visible? What steps can we take to let go of them?
- How does the story of Joseph Smith forgiving William W. Phelps demonstrate the power of Christlike forgiveness? How can we apply this principle in our relationships?
- How do you respond to teachings or ideas that reject the need for repentance or a Savior, similar to the philosophies of Nehor and Korihor? What strengthens your belief in the gospel?
- In what ways can we be mindful of the influence of modern-day “anti-Christs” or ideas that pull us away from truth? How can we stay grounded in the gospel?
- How does the process of sincere repentance change a person’s heart, as it did for William W. Phelps? How have you experienced this change in your own life?
- What can we learn from Joseph Smith’s willingness to forgive and welcome back someone who had deeply hurt him? How does this example challenge us to extend grace to others?
- How can we ensure that we are actively engaged in following God’s will rather than passively drifting away from His teachings? What practices help you stay committed?
- What role does humility play in recognizing our need for repentance? How do we cultivate the humility needed to turn back to God?
- How can stories of reconciliation and forgiveness, like that of William W. Phelps, offer hope to those who feel distant from the Church or from God?
- How do you see the impact of rebellion against God in the world today? How can we counteract these influences in our own lives and communities?
- What steps can we take to support those who are seeking to return to full fellowship in the Church, just as Joseph welcomed William W. Phelps back?
Object Lessons:
- The Weights of Rebellion
- Materials: A set of small weights or heavy objects.
- Activity: Have participants hold the weights while discussing how active or passive rebellion can feel like a burden. As they talk about repentance, invite them to set down the weights, symbolizing how letting go of rebellion through repentance lightens our burdens and brings relief.
- The Two Paths
- Materials: Two different-colored paths made with tape on the floor.
- Activity: Label one path “Rebellion” and the other “Repentance.” Discuss the consequences of each path, using examples from Sherem, Nehor, and Korihor for the rebellion path, and William W. Phelps for the repentance path. Invite participants to walk down the repentance path and discuss how choosing this path brings peace.
- The Torn and Repaired Cloth
- Materials: A piece of cloth, scissors, needle, and thread.
- Activity: Tear the cloth to symbolize the damage caused by rebellion. Then, sew it back together, discussing how repentance and forgiveness can mend our spiritual wounds. Emphasize that while scars may remain, the relationship with God can be repaired through sincere efforts.
- The Locked and Unlocked Chains
- Materials: Chains or a rope with a lock.
- Activity: Show how rebellion can feel like being locked in chains. Use a key to unlock the chains, symbolizing how repentance and forgiveness (like the story of William W. Phelps) can free us from spiritual bondage.
- The Compass of Repentance
- Materials: A compass.
- Activity: Demonstrate how a compass points toward the right direction. Explain that, like a compass, repentance helps us correct our course when we’ve gone astray due to rebellion. Discuss how even if we have been far from God, sincere repentance can guide us back.
Activities:
- Rebellion Reflection Cards
- Materials: Index cards, pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down examples of both active and passive rebellion (e.g., deliberate sin, neglecting prayer). On the other side of the card, have them write how they can replace these actions with repentance. Discuss how to recognize passive forms of rebellion and turn towards God.
- Role-Playing Forgiveness
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Have participants role-play the story of William W. Phelps asking Joseph Smith for forgiveness and the Prophet’s merciful response. Discuss how this story illustrates the power of forgiveness and the joy of welcoming back those who sincerely repent.
- Group Discussion: Lay Down Your Weapons
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Discuss what “weapons of rebellion” participants may have, such as pride or resentment. Reflect on how laying down these weapons can change their lives. Invite them to share ways they have experienced God’s mercy through repentance.
- Writing a Letter of Repentance
- Materials: Paper, pens.
- Activity: Ask participants to write a letter as if they were seeking forgiveness from God, like William W. Phelps did with Joseph Smith. Encourage them to express their desire to change and seek help from others. Emphasize the importance of sincerity in repentance.
- The Restoration Story Timeline
- Materials: Large paper, markers.
- Activity: Create a timeline showing key events from the stories of Sherem, Nehor, Korihor, and William W. Phelps. Discuss how each character chose to follow or turn away from rebellion. Highlight the hopeful turn in William W. Phelps’s story and how each person has the chance to change.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you realized that you were passively distancing yourself from God’s guidance. How did you recognize this, and what steps did you take to come back to Him?
Think of a time when you experienced a moment of sincere repentance after resisting God’s will. How did this moment help you feel His forgiveness and a renewed sense of peace?
Think of a time when you felt a need to reconcile with someone after a period of disagreement or distance, similar to William W. Phelps and Joseph Smith. How did extending or receiving forgiveness change your heart?
Think of a time when you saw someone overcome a period of rebellion or opposition to the gospel. How did their story inspire you to seek greater humility or repentance in your own life?
Think of a time when you realized that holding onto pride or resentment was keeping you from fully embracing the gospel. How did you work to let go of those feelings and draw closer to God?
Think of a time when you recognized a tendency to question or resist God’s commandments. How did you overcome this challenge, and what did you learn about humility and faith?
Think of a time when you reached out for forgiveness after making a mistake that hurt others. How did this act of humility bring you closer to those you hurt and to God?
Think of a time when you felt a deep sense of relief after repenting for a mistake you made. How did this relief change your outlook on God’s mercy and grace?
Think of a time when you witnessed someone who had strayed from the gospel find their way back. How did their journey of repentance and reconciliation impact your own faith?
Think of a time when you felt the Lord inviting you to let go of a rebellious attitude or behavior. How did following that prompting help you find greater peace and purpose in your life?
Perhaps the more insidious form of rebellion against God, however, is the passive version—ignoring His will in our lives. Many who would never consider active rebellion may still oppose the will and word of God by pursuing their own path without regard to divine direction. I am reminded of the song made famous years ago by singer Frank Sinatra with the climactic line “I did it my way.” Certainly in life there is plenty of room for personal preference and individual choice, but when it comes to matters of salvation and eternal life, our theme song ought to be “I did it God’s way,” because truly there is no other way.
Take, for instance, the Savior’s example regarding baptism. He submitted to baptism as a demonstration of loyalty to the Father and as an example to us:
“He showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments. …
“And he said unto the children of men: Follow thou me. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, can we follow Jesus save we shall be willing to keep the commandments of the Father?”
There is no “my way” if we are to follow Christ’s example. Trying to find a different course to heaven is like the futility of working on the Tower of Babel rather than looking to Christ and His salvation.
Engaging Questions:
- How do you recognize passive rebellion in your own life—those times when you might be ignoring God’s will even unintentionally? What helps you realign with His direction?
- Why do you think it can be easier to fall into passive rebellion rather than active defiance? How can we guard against drifting away from God’s guidance?
- What do you think Elder Christofferson meant when he said our theme song should be “I did it God’s way”? How does this perspective change your approach to life’s choices?
- How does the Savior’s example of submitting to baptism inspire you in your own efforts to follow God’s commandments? What other examples from Jesus’s life guide you?
- How do you balance the desire for personal choice and individuality with the need to follow God’s commandments? Where do you find the most joy in following God’s way?
- What are some ways we can ensure that we are looking to Christ and not building our own “Tower of Babel” in our efforts to achieve our goals?
- How do you feel when you follow God’s way, even when it’s difficult or goes against what you initially wanted? How do those experiences strengthen your faith?
- In what areas of your life have you felt prompted to follow God’s way more closely? How did you come to recognize that prompting, and what difference did it make?
- What does it mean to you to humble yourself before God, as Jesus did at His baptism? How does humility play a role in avoiding passive rebellion?
- How can we help those around us recognize the value of aligning their lives with God’s will, especially if they might be pursuing their own path without realizing it?
- How do you respond when you feel tempted to prioritize your own desires over God’s commandments? What practices help you stay focused on doing things “God’s way”?
- How do you see the concept of “my way” influencing society today? What challenges do you face in maintaining a Christ-centered perspective in such a world?
- What scriptures or teachings inspire you to align your life more fully with God’s will, even when it requires sacrifice? How have they helped you in challenging times?
- How does following God’s path bring you closer to Him, compared to pursuing your own way? What blessings have you seen from choosing to follow His commandments?
- What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to trust that God’s way is better than their own? How can they find reassurance in aligning their life with His will?
Object Lessons:
- The Crooked Path vs. The Straight Path
- Materials: Two paths drawn with tape on the floor—one straight and one winding.
- Activity: Invite participants to walk both paths. Discuss how the winding path represents pursuing our own will while the straight path symbolizes following God’s guidance. Highlight how choosing God’s way leads to a clear and direct path to eternal life.
- The Compass of Alignment
- Materials: A compass.
- Activity: Show how a compass always points north and discuss how it represents the need to align our lives with God’s direction. Explain how passive rebellion can cause us to lose focus, much like trying to navigate without using the compass. Emphasize the importance of keeping our spiritual compass aligned with God’s will.
- The Tower of Babel
- Materials: Building blocks.
- Activity: Build a small tower with the blocks while explaining how the Tower of Babel represented humanity’s attempt to reach heaven on their own terms. Compare this to the futility of following “my way” instead of God’s. Discuss how true progress comes from following Christ’s example, like His baptism.
- The Yield Sign
- Materials: A picture of a yield sign or a real one.
- Activity: Discuss how a yield sign symbolizes pausing and giving the right of way. Relate this to how we need to yield to God’s will instead of insisting on our own plans. Share examples of how yielding to God’s will brings greater peace and direction.
- The Self-Willed Balloon
- Materials: A balloon.
- Activity: Blow up the balloon and let it go, allowing it to fly randomly around the room. Compare this to following our own will without divine direction—chaotic and directionless. Then, control the balloon by tying it to a string and guiding it, symbolizing how following God’s guidance gives us direction and purpose.
Activities:
- “I Did It God’s Way” Reflection Cards
- Materials: Index cards, pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down an area of their life where they feel they’ve been doing things “their way” and how they might change to align with “God’s way.” Invite them to reflect on how making this change could bring more peace and spiritual strength.
- Group Discussion: Jesus’s Example of Obedience
- Materials: Scriptures.
- Activity: Study scriptures that highlight Christ’s obedience, such as His baptism or the Garden of Gethsemane. Discuss how following His example requires humility and a willingness to submit to God’s will. Share personal experiences of times when following God’s way brought blessings.
- Tower Building Challenge
- Materials: Building blocks or LEGOs.
- Activity: Divide participants into two groups—one group must build a tower without a set of instructions (representing doing things their own way), and the other follows a guide. Discuss the difference in their experiences and how following God’s “blueprint” brings better results in life.
- Personal Journal Exercise: “My Way” vs. “God’s Way”
- Materials: Journals, pens.
- Activity: Encourage participants to journal about a time when they followed their own desires instead of God’s will. Have them reflect on the outcome and then write about a time when they chose to follow God’s way and the peace or blessings that followed.
- Role-Playing Yielding to God’s Will
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Create role-playing scenarios where one person insists on their own way and another chooses to yield to divine guidance. Discuss the differences in their experiences and how choosing to follow God’s will can lead to better outcomes.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you realized you were pursuing your own path without seeking God’s direction. How did you come to recognize this, and what changes did you make to align more with His will?
- Think of a time when you felt the temptation to do things “your way” rather than following God’s guidance. How did you find the strength to choose His path, and what difference did it make in your life?
- Think of a time when you felt prompted to follow a commandment that wasn’t easy for you. How did you choose to follow the Savior’s example, and what blessings came from that decision?
- Think of a time when you saw someone close to you struggle between following their own desires and heeding divine guidance. How did their experience influence your own understanding of God’s will?
- Think of a time when you realized that following God’s way led to a better outcome than you initially imagined. How did this experience strengthen your faith in trusting His direction?
- Think of a time when you faced a decision that required you to humble yourself before God’s will. What did you learn about obedience and the blessings that come from following the Savior’s example?
- Think of a time when you were tempted to ignore a prompting or spiritual nudge. How did you eventually respond, and what impact did this have on your relationship with God?
- Think of a time when you felt that God’s way seemed more challenging than your own. How did you come to see the wisdom in His plan, even when it wasn’t easy?
- Think of a time when you struggled with accepting a specific commandment or teaching. How did you reconcile your feelings and choose to trust in God’s will?
- Think of a time when you realized the importance of following the Savior’s example in all things, even when it meant letting go of personal preferences. How did this realization change your perspective on discipleship?
The swords and other weapons that the Lamanite converts buried were weapons of rebellion because of how they had used them. Those same kinds of weapons in the hands of their sons, being used in defense of family and freedom, were not weapons of rebellion against God at all. The same was true of such weapons in the hands of the Nephites: “They were not fighting for monarchy nor power but … were fighting for their homes and their liberties, their wives and their children, and their all, yea, for their rites of worship and their church.”
In this same way, there are things in our lives that may be neutral or even inherently good but that used in the wrong way become “weapons of rebellion.” Our speech, for example, can edify or demean. As James said:
“But the tongue [it seems] can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
“Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
“Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.”
There is much in public and personal discourse today that is malicious and mean-spirited. There is much conversation that is vulgar and profane, even among youth. This sort of speech is a “weapon of rebellion” against God, “full of deadly poison.”
Engaging Questions:
- How can we recognize when something good or neutral in our lives has become a “weapon of rebellion”? What examples come to mind, and how can we change our approach?
- How do you see the parallel between the Lamanites burying their swords and us letting go of actions or habits that can be used in harmful ways? What might we need to “bury” in our own lives?
- How have you seen the power of speech used to both uplift and harm others? What role do you think our words play in aligning with or rebelling against God’s teachings?
- What are some ways we can use our words to build up others, especially when it’s easier to criticize or speak negatively? How do you stay mindful of this in your conversations?
- How do you feel when you use words in a way that is consistent with your values and beliefs? How does that compare to times when you might speak in frustration or anger?
- Why do you think James emphasizes the difficulty of taming the tongue? How can we work on controlling our speech to ensure it blesses rather than curses?
- In what ways can we use our speech to defend our values, similar to the Nephites using their swords for righteous purposes? How can we stand up for truth while remaining kind and respectful?
- How can we help create a culture of more respectful and uplifting speech within our homes, churches, and communities?
- What role does humility play in recognizing when our speech or actions have become harmful rather than helpful? How can we use humility to make changes in how we communicate?
- How do you respond when you encounter negative or harmful speech, whether online or in person? What approaches have you found effective in promoting kindness and understanding?
- How can we use our influence on social media or in everyday interactions to encourage more positive, edifying conversations?
- How does the concept of “weapons of rebellion” apply to other aspects of our lives beyond speech? What other good things could be misused and become spiritually harmful?
- What helps you stay accountable for the words you use? How do you ensure that your speech reflects your commitment to Christ?
- How does controlling our words help us become more like Christ, who always used His speech to teach, uplift, and bless others?
- How can we encourage our friends, family, and community members to be mindful of their words? What impact could this have on our relationships and environment?
Object Lessons:
- The Two Cups of Water
- Materials: Two clear cups of water, one with a few drops of food coloring.
- Activity: Show the two cups—one pure, the other slightly tainted. Discuss how our words can be pure and uplifting or tainted with negativity and unkindness. Explain how even a few negative words (like the food coloring) can affect the whole, and how we should strive to keep our speech clean and pure.
- The Double-Edged Sword
- Materials: A toy sword.
- Activity: Use the toy sword to explain how the same object can be used for protection or harm, just like our words. Discuss how the Lamanites buried their swords to change how they used them and how we, too, can change the way we use our speech to uplift rather than harm others.
- The Hammer: Build or Break
- Materials: A hammer, a nail, and a piece of wood.
- Activity: Use the hammer to demonstrate how it can be used to build something or to break it apart. Compare this to how our words can build others up or tear them down. Discuss how we can choose to use our speech as a tool for good.
- The Fire of Speech
- Materials: A candle or a picture of a fire.
- Activity: Light the candle or show a picture of fire and discuss how fire can provide warmth or cause destruction. Relate this to the power of our words, which can offer comfort or cause pain, depending on how we use them.
- The Mirror of Reflection
- Materials: A mirror.
- Activity: Have participants look into the mirror and reflect on the words they use daily. Discuss how the way we speak reflects our inner character. Challenge them to see if their words reflect the light of Christ or if they need to make changes.
Activities:
- Edifying Speech Cards
- Materials: Index cards, pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down examples of positive, uplifting speech on one side of the card and negative, harmful speech on the other. Discuss how both types of speech can come from the same person and what they can do to choose more positive language.
- Group Discussion: Words that Heal vs. Words that Harm
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Hold a discussion on the impact of words, sharing experiences where kind words made a difference or where hurtful words left a lasting impact. Emphasize the importance of using our words to bless others.
- Role-Playing Positive Speech
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Create scenarios where participants practice using positive speech in situations that could easily become negative (e.g., handling a disagreement, responding to criticism). Discuss how choosing kind words can change the outcome of a conversation.
- Burying Negative Words Activity
- Materials: A small container or jar, slips of paper, pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down negative phrases or habits of speech they want to get rid of on slips of paper. Place them in the container and “bury” it as a symbol of committing to use more positive language, similar to the Lamanites burying their swords.
- Speech Gratitude Challenge
- Materials: Journals or paper, pens.
- Activity: Encourage participants to write down three positive things they can say to others each day for a week. At the end of the week, reflect on how using uplifting words impacted their relationships and their own feelings.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you realized that your words had the power to either build up or tear down someone. How did you choose to use your words for good, and what impact did it have?
- Think of a time when you regretted something you said in a moment of frustration or anger. How did you work to make amends, and what did you learn about the power of speech?
- Think of a time when you witnessed someone use their words to uplift and encourage others. How did their example inspire you to be more mindful of how you speak to those around you?
- Think of a time when a conversation became a “weapon of rebellion” because it was filled with negativity or criticism. How did you recognize this, and what did you do to change the tone?
- Think of a time when you made an effort to speak kindly, even in a difficult situation. How did choosing to respond with patience or compassion affect the outcome?
- Think of a time when you felt the need to change the way you spoke about others or yourself. What prompted this change, and how did it influence your relationships?
- Think of a time when you had to be deliberate about using your speech to defend what is right or true. How did you find the balance between standing firm and speaking with love?
- Think of a time when you felt inspired to replace harmful or critical words with expressions of gratitude or encouragement. How did this shift impact your own feelings and those of others?
- Think of a time when you realized that the way you communicated on social media or in group settings wasn’t in line with your values. How did you adjust your approach, and what difference did it make?
- Think of a time when you saw the power of an apology or a kind word to heal a misunderstanding. How did this experience teach you about the constructive potential of speech?
Consider another example of something that is essentially good but that could be turned against divine directives—a person’s career. One can find real satisfaction in a profession, vocation, or service, and all of us are benefited by what devoted and talented people in many fields of endeavor have accomplished and created.
Still, it is possible that devotion to career can become the paramount focus of one’s life. Then all else becomes secondary, including any claim the Savior may make on one’s time and talent. For men, and for women as well, forgoing legitimate opportunities for marriage, failing to cleave to and lift one’s spouse, failing to nurture one’s children, or even intentionally avoiding the blessing and responsibility of child-rearing solely for the sake of career advancement can convert laudable achievement into a form of rebellion.
Engaging Questions:
- How can a career, which is inherently good, become a potential distraction from our commitment to God? What signs might indicate that it has become too much of a focus?
- What does it mean to keep a balance between professional achievement and the Savior’s claim on our time and talents? How can we find this balance in our daily lives?
- How do you prioritize relationships with family and the Lord while pursuing your professional or personal goals? What practices help you maintain this balance?
- How can we ensure that our career choices and ambitions align with God’s plan for us? What role does prayer and personal revelation play in these decisions?
- In what ways can focusing too much on a career or personal goals impact relationships with a spouse or children? How can we guard against this?
- How do you view the responsibility of nurturing a family alongside the desire for career advancement? What sacrifices have you found necessary to maintain both?
- How can we help each other remember the importance of family and spiritual commitments when career demands become intense?
- What blessings have you seen from making time for your family or community, even when it required stepping back from career opportunities?
- How do you keep your professional goals in harmony with your desire to serve God and others? Can you share an experience when you felt prompted to adjust your focus?
- How can we support those around us who might be struggling to balance their career with their commitment to family or spiritual duties?
- How do you prioritize time with God and your family when work or other responsibilities threaten to take precedence? What routines help keep these priorities in place?
- How does the gospel teach us to find fulfillment beyond professional achievements? How can we shift our perspective to find joy in family, service, and spiritual growth?
- What advice would you give to someone who is unsure of how to balance their career ambitions with their responsibilities to their family and to God?
- How can we avoid the temptation to see career success as the primary measure of our worth? What helps you stay grounded in your divine identity?
- How do you feel when you make choices that prioritize family or spiritual commitments over career? What rewards have you experienced from these decisions?
Object Lessons:
- The Balanced Scale
- Materials: A balance scale, small objects representing different aspects of life (e.g., a small toy house for family, a book for career, a heart for relationships).
- Activity: Place objects on the scale to represent career and family commitments. Show how adding too much weight to one side (e.g., career) can tip the balance, potentially overshadowing other priorities like family. Discuss the importance of maintaining balance and how prioritizing divine directives can help keep our lives steady.
- The Ladder of Success
- Materials: A small ladder with labels on each rung (e.g., “Career,” “Family,” “Service,” “Faith”).
- Activity: Show how climbing the ladder of success can be good, but if we neglect the other rungs, we risk losing what matters most. Discuss how each rung represents something valuable, and balance is needed to reach the top with a strong foundation in place.
- The Jar of Priorities
- Materials: A large jar, rocks, pebbles, sand.
- Activity: Fill the jar with rocks labeled “Faith,” “Family,” and “Service,” and then add pebbles and sand labeled “Career” and “Hobbies.” Demonstrate how when we place the big rocks first, the smaller elements fit around them. Discuss how making God and family a priority allows career and other pursuits to fit into a balanced life.
- The Two Roads Map
- Materials: A map with two roads drawn—one leading to “Career Focus” and the other to “Divine Priorities.”
- Activity: Discuss how focusing too much on one road can lead to missing important stops along the way (like family time, service, and personal worship). Emphasize that both roads have value but that the map of our lives should be guided by divine principles.
- The Glass of Water
- Materials: A glass, water, and a pitcher.
- Activity: Fill the glass halfway with water and explain that it represents time and energy. Pour more water to show how devoting too much to one area (like a career) can cause it to overflow, leaving less room for other responsibilities. Discuss the importance of managing our time and commitments in line with God’s priorities.
Activities:
- Reflection Journal: Balancing Career and Divine Priorities
- Materials: Journals, pens.
- Activity: Encourage participants to reflect on their current priorities and write about what aspects of life might be overshadowing their time with family or God. Have them create a plan for how they can bring greater balance into their lives.
- Discussion Group: The Meaning of True Success
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Hold a discussion on what true success means in the eyes of God versus the world. Discuss how achievements in a career are valuable but should not come at the expense of relationships and spiritual commitments.
- Role-Playing Priorities
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Create scenarios where participants have to make decisions between work and family obligations (e.g., working late vs. attending a child’s recital). Discuss how they might approach these situations and align their choices with their values and divine guidance.
- Time Pie Chart
- Materials: Paper, pens, and markers.
- Activity: Have participants draw a pie chart of how they currently spend their time each week (e.g., work, family, church, hobbies). Then, have them draw a second chart of how they would like to allocate their time to better align with God’s priorities. Discuss changes they might make.
- Letter to Future Self
- Materials: Paper, pens.
- Activity: Ask participants to write a letter to their future self, reflecting on how they want to be remembered by their family and what they hope their life priorities will look like. Encourage them to include goals for balancing career ambitions with divine directives.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you had to balance career ambitions with your responsibilities to your family. How did you navigate this, and what did you learn about prioritizing your relationships?
Think of a time when you felt prompted to put family or spiritual responsibilities ahead of professional opportunities. How did following that prompting impact your sense of peace and purpose?
Think of a time when you felt the tension between your work commitments and the time you wanted to dedicate to spiritual growth or service. How did you find a balance that felt right for you?
Think of a time when you realized that your career had become your primary focus, perhaps at the expense of other important aspects of life. What helped you shift your perspective and prioritize your relationship with God?
Think of a time when you chose to forgo a professional opportunity to spend more time with your spouse or children. How did this decision strengthen your family bonds?
Think of a time when you witnessed someone else make sacrifices in their career to serve others or prioritize their family. How did their example influence your own approach to balancing work and spiritual responsibilities?
Think of a time when you felt God guiding you to use your talents in a way that served others, even if it meant stepping back from career ambitions. How did this experience shape your sense of purpose?
Think of a time when you felt deeply fulfilled in both your career and your role as a spouse or parent. How did you maintain that balance, and what role did prayer or divine guidance play in that process?
Think of a time when you realized that the most meaningful successes in your life weren’t related to your job. How did this realization change your focus or priorities?
Think of a time when you adjusted your career goals to better align with your values and family needs. How did this decision affect your sense of fulfillment and your relationship with God?
Another example concerns our physical being. Paul reminds us that we are to glorify God in both body and spirit and that this body is the temple of the Holy Ghost, “which ye have of God, and ye are not your own.” Thus, we have a legitimate interest in spending time caring for our bodies as best we can. Few of us will reach the peak of performance we have seen recently in the achievements of Olympic and Paralympic athletes, and some of us are experiencing the effects of age, or what President M. Russell Ballard called “the rivets coming loose.”
Nevertheless, I believe it pleases our Creator when we do our best to care for His wonderful gift of a physical body. It would be a mark of rebellion to deface or defile one’s body, or abuse it, or fail to do what one can to pursue a healthy lifestyle. At the same time, vanity and becoming consumed with one’s physique, appearance, or dress can be a form of rebellion at the other extreme, leading one to worship God’s gift instead of God.
Engaging Questions:
- How do you view the responsibility of caring for your body as a way of honoring God? What helps you maintain a balanced approach to health and fitness?
- What does it mean to you that your body is a “temple of the Holy Ghost”? How does this understanding influence your daily choices?
- How do you avoid the extremes of either neglecting your body or becoming too focused on appearance? What practices help you find a healthy balance?
- How can caring for our physical health be an act of gratitude to God for the gift of a body? Can you share a moment when you felt grateful for your physical abilities?
- How do you respond to the societal pressures around physical appearance? What helps you focus on the spiritual purpose of caring for your body rather than outward appearances?
- In what ways can we support each other in maintaining a healthy lifestyle without falling into vanity or obsession over physical fitness?
- How do you find peace and self-acceptance as you experience the natural effects of aging or physical limitations? What scriptures or teachings provide comfort during these times?
- How can we teach young people the importance of caring for their bodies without placing too much emphasis on physical appearance? What messages do you think are most important for them to hear?
- How do you ensure that your efforts to care for your body also support your spiritual growth? What role does prayer or mindfulness play in your approach to physical health?
- How can neglecting our physical health become a form of rebellion against God’s gift of a body? What steps can we take to better honor this gift?
- How do you see the connection between physical and spiritual well-being in your life? How have you experienced these aspects working together?
- How can we remember the importance of inner beauty and spiritual strength while still taking care of our physical selves?
- What motivates you to make healthy choices for your body? How do you stay focused on the deeper purpose behind these decisions?
- How do you feel about the idea that our bodies are “not [our] own” but are given to us by God? How does this perspective change the way you care for your body?
- What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to find a balance between taking care of their body and focusing on spiritual growth?
Object Lessons:
- The Mirror and the Scripture
- Materials: A mirror and a copy of the scriptures.
- Activity: Hold up the mirror and the scriptures, explaining that while the mirror represents caring for our physical appearance, the scriptures represent spiritual growth. Discuss how focusing too much on one without the other creates an imbalance. Emphasize that both physical and spiritual care are important and should complement each other.
- The Temple Picture and the Model House
- Materials: A picture of a temple and a small model of a house.
- Activity: Show the temple picture and the model house, explaining that just as a temple is carefully maintained, our bodies should also be treated with respect. Discuss how taking care of our physical health is like maintaining a temple—keeping it clean and treating it with reverence.
- The Two Scales of Balance
- Materials: A small balance scale.
- Activity: Place small objects on each side of the scale to represent physical and spiritual care. Show how adding too much to one side (e.g., focusing only on appearance or neglecting health) can tip the balance. Discuss how God wants us to find a balance in caring for our physical body and our spirit.
- The Dirty and Clean Water Bottles
- Materials: Two water bottles—one filled with clean water, one with dirty water.
- Activity: Show the clean and dirty water bottles as examples of how we can treat our bodies. Explain that just as we wouldn’t drink dirty water, we shouldn’t put harmful things into our bodies. Discuss how a healthy lifestyle honors the body as a gift from God.
- The Wilted and Healthy Plant
- Materials: A healthy plant and a wilted one.
- Activity: Compare the healthy and wilted plants to show how proper care makes a difference. Explain that just like a plant needs water and sunlight, our bodies need proper nourishment and exercise. Discuss how neglect or over-focus (vanity) can have negative effects.
Activities:
- Reflection Journal: My Body as a Temple
- Materials: Journals, pens.
- Activity: Encourage participants to reflect in their journals on how they are treating their bodies and what changes they could make to better align with seeing their body as a temple. Ask them to set a goal for a physical or spiritual habit they can improve.
- Balancing Act Activity
- Materials: A small object to balance (e.g., a book) and a long ruler.
- Activity: Invite participants to try balancing the object on the ruler, symbolizing the balance between physical health and spiritual growth. Discuss how focusing too much on one side can cause us to lose balance, but a steady focus on both helps us stay centered.
- Healthy Choices Brainstorm
- Materials: Whiteboard and markers.
- Activity: Create a list of healthy physical habits (e.g., exercise, balanced diet) and spiritual habits (e.g., prayer, scripture study). Discuss how each one contributes to treating our body as a temple and why balance is essential.
- Group Walk: Reflecting on Health and Spirituality
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Take a walk outside as a group, encouraging participants to reflect on the importance of physical health while enjoying nature. After the walk, gather to share thoughts on how physical activity can be a form of gratitude for our bodies.
- Role-Playing Moderation
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Create role-playing scenarios where participants face decisions about balancing physical and spiritual activities (e.g., choosing between a workout and time for prayer). Discuss how to make choices that honor both the physical body and spiritual priorities.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you felt a deep appreciation for your physical body as a gift from God. How did this perspective change the way you approached caring for your health?
Think of a time when you made a change in your lifestyle to better care for your body. What inspired this change, and how did it impact your physical and spiritual well-being?
Think of a time when you realized that your focus on physical appearance or fitness was overshadowing more important aspects of your life. How did you find a healthier balance?
Think of a time when you felt the Spirit prompting you to be more mindful of how you treat your body. What adjustments did you make, and how did they bring you closer to God?
Think of a time when you found joy in a physical activity or exercise that helped you feel more connected to God’s creations. How did this experience enhance your gratitude for your body?
Think of a time when you struggled with how you viewed your body and found peace through a change in perspective. What helped you appreciate your physical self as a temple of the Holy Ghost?
Think of a time when you had to be careful not to let concerns about appearance distract from more important spiritual pursuits. How did you refocus on what mattered most?
Think of a time when you saw someone demonstrate a healthy respect for their body without becoming overly focused on appearance. How did their example influence your own approach to self-care?
Think of a time when you realized that caring for your body also meant respecting its limitations, such as with aging or illness. How did this acceptance bring you closer to God?
Think of a time when you felt gratitude for the physical abilities you have, despite any challenges or limitations. How did this gratitude help you see your body as a sacred gift?
In the end, burying our weapons of rebellion against God simply means yielding to the enticing of the Holy Spirit, putting off the natural man, and becoming “a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord.” It means putting the first commandment first in our lives. It means letting God prevail. If our love of God and our determination to serve Him with all our might, mind, and strength become the touchstone by which we judge all things and make all our decisions, we will have buried our weapons of rebellion. By the grace of Christ, God will forgive our sins and rebellions of the past and will take away the stain of those sins and rebellions from our hearts. In time, He will even take away any desire for evil, as He did with those Lamanite converts of the past. Thereafter, we too “never [will] fall away.”
Burying our weapons of rebellion leads to a unique joy. With all who have ever become converted to the Lord, we are “brought to sing [the song of] redeeming love.” Our Heavenly Father and His Son, our Redeemer, have confirmed Their unending commitment to our ultimate happiness through the most profound love and sacrifice. We experience Their love daily. Surely we can reciprocate with our own love and loyalty. May we bury—very, very deep—any element of rebellion against God in our lives and replace it with a willing heart and a willing mind. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
Engaging Questions:
- What does it mean to you to “bury your weapons of rebellion” against God? How have you seen this process unfold in your own life?
- How can we recognize when we are holding onto elements of rebellion, even if they seem small or insignificant? What helps you identify these areas in your life?
- How do you understand the phrase “letting God prevail” in your life? What changes have you made to put this principle into practice?
- How do you approach putting the first commandment—loving God with all your heart—at the center of your decisions and actions? What difference has it made in your life?
- In what ways have you experienced the Holy Spirit guiding you to make changes that bring you closer to God? How do you respond to these promptings?
- What role does the Atonement of Jesus Christ play in helping us let go of our “weapons of rebellion” and become saints? How have you felt this power in your own efforts to change?
- How can we support others who are struggling to put off the natural man and draw closer to the Lord? What words of encouragement or advice would you offer?
- What helps you stay committed to following God’s will, even when it requires letting go of personal desires or habits? How do you keep your focus on Him?
- How do you find joy in the process of becoming more converted to the Lord, as Elder Christofferson describes? What experiences have helped you “sing the song of redeeming love”?
- How can we deepen our love for God and strengthen our determination to serve Him with all our might, mind, and strength? What practices help you maintain this focus?
- How do you approach seeking forgiveness for past rebellions and mistakes? How has the grace of Christ helped you move forward without feeling weighed down by past sins?
- What do you think it means for God to “take away any desire for evil” as we draw closer to Him? How have you experienced this change in your own heart?
- How can we continually work to replace elements of rebellion with a willing heart and mind? What steps can help us make this shift more consistently?
- What does the example of the Lamanite converts teach us about the power of sincere change and the impact it can have on our lives and families?
- How do you feel the Lord’s commitment to your happiness and growth through His love and sacrifice? How does this knowledge influence your own commitment to Him?
Object Lessons:
- The Buried Stone
- Materials: A small stone, a container of soil, and a shovel.
- Activity: Write “Rebellion” on the stone, then bury it in the soil, symbolizing how we can bury the tendencies that keep us from following God. Discuss how choosing to yield to the Holy Spirit means burying the desires that pull us away from God and embracing a heart that seeks His will.
- The Weight of Rebellion vs. The Feather of Willingness
- Materials: A heavy weight (e.g., a small rock) and a feather.
- Activity: Compare the weight to feelings of rebellion and stubbornness, and the feather to a willing heart. Discuss how rebellion can weigh us down spiritually, but a willingness to follow the Spirit and put God first lightens our burdens and brings peace.
- The Seed of the Spirit
- Materials: Seeds, soil, a pot.
- Activity: Plant a seed in soil, representing our willingness to let go of rebellion and yield to the Spirit. Discuss how just as the seed grows with care, our hearts become more like Christ’s when we allow the Spirit to guide us and put God first in our decisions.
- The Compass of Priorities
- Materials: A compass.
- Activity: Show how a compass points north, representing how we can let God be our true “north” by putting the first commandment first. Discuss how the compass can get off track if not properly aligned, just as we can lose our spiritual direction if we let other priorities come before God.
- The Mirror of Reflection
- Materials: A mirror.
- Activity: Have participants look into the mirror and consider their current spiritual state. Discuss how yielding to the Holy Spirit and putting God first is like seeing clearly in the mirror. When we refuse to bury our rebellion, it’s like the mirror being fogged up, obscuring our view of what’s most important.
Activities:
- Reflection Journal: My Weapons of Rebellion
- Materials: Journals, pens.
- Activity: Encourage participants to write about what “weapons of rebellion” they need to bury, such as pride, selfishness, or resistance to following the Spirit. Have them reflect on what steps they can take to yield more fully to God and make Him the priority in their lives.
- Group Discussion: The Song of Redeeming Love
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Discuss what it means to “sing the song of redeeming love” after choosing to bury rebellion and turn to Christ. Share how moments of yielding to God’s will have brought greater peace and joy into participants’ lives.
- Burying Negative Traits Activity
- Materials: Small slips of paper, pens, a small box or container.
- Activity: Have participants write down traits or habits they want to let go of on slips of paper. Place the slips in the container and symbolically “bury” it, committing to let go of those tendencies and focus on developing a willing heart and mind.
- Role-Playing Yielding to God’s Will
- Materials: None needed.
- Activity: Create scenarios where participants practice choosing between their own desires and what they feel God would have them do (e.g., choosing kindness over anger, or choosing to serve someone in need instead of focusing on themselves). Discuss how each choice can help us put God first.
- Steps to Spiritual Surrender
- Materials: Large paper, markers.
- Activity: Draw a path with steps labeled “Recognize,” “Repent,” “Yield,” and “Become.” Discuss each step as a process of surrendering rebellion and yielding to the Holy Spirit. Invite participants to reflect on how they can follow this process in their lives.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you felt the Holy Spirit prompting you to let go of a habit or attitude that was keeping you from fully following God. How did you respond, and what changed in your life as a result?
Think of a time when you made a decision to put God first in a challenging situation. How did choosing to follow His will bring you peace or joy, even if the path wasn’t easy?
Think of a time when you felt yourself growing closer to God as you put off the “natural man” and embraced a more Christlike way of living. What small changes made the biggest difference in your spiritual progress?
Think of a time when you felt the desire for something negative or unhelpful begin to fade as you focused more on the Savior. How did this change bring greater joy into your life?
Think of a time when you experienced God’s grace taking away a burden or stain from your past. How did this experience help you feel a renewed sense of love and gratitude toward Him?
Think of a time when you consciously chose to let God prevail in your life, even when it meant sacrificing something you valued. How did this choice impact your relationship with Him?
Think of a time when you felt a sense of freedom and relief after letting go of a personal “weapon of rebellion.” What did burying that aspect of your life make possible for you?
Think of a time when you found joy in following God’s commandments, even when the world seemed to offer easier paths. How did this decision help you feel God’s love more deeply?
Think of a time when you had to let go of pride or stubbornness in order to reconcile with someone or with God. How did this act of humility change your perspective?
Think of a time when you felt the joy of “singing the song of redeeming love” after making a positive change in your life. How did this experience strengthen your testimony of the Savior’s atonement?
