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, “Seeking Answers to Spiritual Questions” by Sister Tracy Y. Browning.
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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I know this may come as a surprise, but I’m old enough to remember when we were taught in school that there were nine planets in our solar system. One of those planets, Pluto, was given its name by 11-year-old Venetia Burney of Oxford, England, after its discovery in 1930. And up until 1992, Pluto was believed to be the most distant object in our solar system. During this time, it was common to find childhood papier mâché models of our planetary neighborhood in classrooms and science fairs, each one illustrating Pluto’s position on the known border. Many scientists believed that beyond that edge, the outer solar system consisted of empty space.
However, a lingering question remained within the scientific community regarding the origin of a particular type of comet that astronomers regularly tracked. And that question persisted for decades before the discovery of another distant region of our solar system. With the limited knowledge they had, scientists used those intervening decades to produce significant technological advances that allowed for further study and exploration. Their eventual breakthrough reconfigured our planetary zone and resulted in Pluto being rehomed to this new region of space and our solar system consisting of eight planets.
One leading planetary scientist and principal investigator for the New Horizons space mission tasked with exploring Pluto up close had this to say about this experience: “We thought we understood the geography of our solar system. We didn’t. We thought we understood the population of planets in our solar system. And we were wrong.”
What is striking to me about this period of space exploration history are some parallels and key distinctions between the metaphorical pursuit of expanding scientific horizons and the journey that we, as children of God, undertake to seek answers to our spiritual questions. Specifically, how we can respond to the limits of our spiritual understanding and prepare ourselves for the next stage of personal growth—and where we can turn for help.
Engaging Questions:
- Have you ever felt confident in your understanding of a spiritual truth, only to later realize there was much more to learn? What did that experience teach you about humility and growth?
- Just as scientists discovered more beyond Pluto, what helps you continue to seek spiritual insights when you feel like you’ve reached the edge of what you know?
- How can moments of uncertainty or limited understanding push us toward deeper exploration of our faith and beliefs?
- What parallels do you see between technological advances that expand scientific horizons and personal spiritual practices that deepen our understanding of God’s plan?
- In times when you feel like your spiritual knowledge has reached a limit, where do you turn for guidance and answers? What resources have helped you most?
- What role do patience and perseverance play in expanding your spiritual understanding, similar to how scientists persisted in studying the unknown?
- How does recognizing the limits of our current spiritual understanding encourage us to rely more on faith and trust in God’s timing?
- What lessons can we learn from scientists who were willing to question their previous beliefs and embrace new findings, and how can this apply to our own faith journey?
- How do you prepare yourself to be open to new spiritual insights and revelations when they come, even if they challenge what you thought you knew?
- What small steps can we take daily to ensure we are prepared for greater personal spiritual growth, just as scientists developed new technologies to explore more of the solar system?
Object Lessons:
- “The Expanding Universe of Faith”
- Materials: A balloon and a marker.
- Activity: Draw small dots or circles on a deflated balloon to represent what we currently know or understand. Begin inflating the balloon and explain that as it expands, the dots become more spread out, symbolizing the idea that as we learn and grow spiritually, our understanding expands, and what we once thought was the limit turns out to be just the beginning.
- Lesson: Just as scientists expanded their understanding of the solar system beyond Pluto, we, too, can expand our spiritual knowledge and faith by seeking truth, asking questions, and being open to growth.
- “The Limit of Knowledge and the Mystery Beyond”
- Materials: A dark cloth (representing the unknown), small lights or stars, and a model of the solar system.
- Activity: Set up a small model of the solar system and place the dark cloth at its edge, explaining that for a long time, scientists believed there was nothing beyond Pluto. Remove the cloth to reveal small lights or stars beyond it, representing new discoveries. Discuss how we may feel that we understand everything within our spiritual world, but there are always new truths and insights to uncover.
- Lesson: When we encounter the unknown in our lives, we need to be like the scientists who continued to explore. We can push beyond perceived limits with faith, scripture study, prayer, and seeking inspiration.
- “Pluto and the Redefinition of Self”
- Materials: A printed image of Pluto and a sign that reads “Nine Planets” alongside a revised “Eight Planets + Kuiper Belt” sign.
- Activity: Show the image of Pluto and talk about how it was once considered a planet but later reclassified. Discuss how sometimes we need to re-evaluate and redefine our understanding of ourselves or our circumstances as we grow spiritually.
- Lesson: Just as Pluto’s role changed with new knowledge, our spiritual identities and understanding may evolve as we learn more about God’s plan for us. Change can lead to greater awareness and deeper faith.
- “The Telescope of Truth”
- Materials: A pair of binoculars or a telescope, a picture of the night sky with stars, and a small “X” drawn on a piece of paper.
- Activity: Invite participants to first look at the small “X” on the paper with their eyes only and then use the binoculars or telescope to see the stars in the picture. Explain how tools like telescopes allow us to see beyond what is visible to the naked eye, just as spiritual tools—prayer, scripture, and the Holy Ghost—enable us to understand spiritual truths beyond our current reach.
- Lesson: As we use spiritual “telescopes,” we can gain new perspectives and insights that expand our understanding and bring us closer to God.
Activities
- “Mapping Our Spiritual Universe”
- Materials: Large sheet of paper, markers, and star stickers.
- Activity: Have participants draw their own “map” of their spiritual journey so far. Ask them to mark significant “planets” (milestones of faith or spiritual lessons) and leave space to represent the unexplored parts of their spiritual life—places where they hope to grow or learn more.
- Lesson: This activity illustrates that our spiritual journey is ongoing, with room for continued exploration and discovery. Just as scientists found more beyond Pluto, we can continue to find more beyond our current spiritual knowledge.
- “The Faith Frontier Discussion”
- Materials: None.
- Activity: Hold a discussion where participants share times when they felt they reached the “edge” of their understanding or faith and what helped them move beyond it. Discuss how they sought answers or found comfort in uncertainty and what tools or practices they used to expand their spiritual understanding.
- Lesson: Just as scientists worked together to uncover new truths, we can share our insights and support one another in our spiritual quests, finding encouragement in shared experiences.
- “A Journey of Discovery” Obstacle Course
- Materials: Various items to create an obstacle course (boxes, ropes, cones).
- Activity: Set up an obstacle course representing the journey of seeking spiritual knowledge. Include “stations” where participants need to solve simple puzzles or answer questions related to faith or scripture before moving on. The course ends with a “breakthrough” moment, such as unveiling a covered space that represents new understanding or discovery.
- Lesson: The path to expanding our understanding can be filled with obstacles and questions, but with persistence, faith, and the help of others, we can reach new levels of spiritual insight.
- “The Reflection Journal”
- Materials: Notebooks or journals and pens.
- Activity: Have participants write about a time when they thought they understood something about their faith but later discovered there was more to learn. Prompt them to reflect on how that new understanding changed their perspective and what tools helped them gain that insight (e.g., prayer, studying scripture, talking with trusted mentors).
- Lesson: Just as scientists revised their knowledge about Pluto, we can revisit and refine our understanding as we grow in faith. This journaling exercise helps participants recognize that spiritual growth is a process of continual learning.
- “Celestial Moments Sharing Circle”
- Materials: Small star-shaped cutouts or tokens.
- Activity: Gather participants in a circle and ask each person to share a “celestial moment”—a time when they felt their understanding of God’s love or plan for them expand. As they share, give them a star cutout to place on a shared board or space, representing their collective journey of discovery.
- Lesson: Sharing our personal experiences helps us realize that we are not alone in our search for understanding and that others’ stories can inspire and guide our own exploration of faith.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you believed you fully understood something about your spiritual journey, only to discover later that there was more to learn. How did this realization shape your faith and your willingness to explore deeper spiritual truths?
- Think of a time when you faced a lingering spiritual question that didn’t seem to have an immediate answer. What did you do during that period of uncertainty, and how did it prepare you for future revelation or personal growth?
- Think of a time when your perspective on a gospel principle or truth expanded in a surprising way. What prompted this shift, and how did it change the way you approach your faith or your relationship with God?
- Think of a time when you had to step out of your comfort zone to seek understanding or answers to a spiritual question. What resources, people, or experiences helped you on that journey, and what did you learn that surprised you?
- Think of a time when you realized that what you thought you knew about a gospel concept was incomplete or needed refining. How did embracing a broader understanding impact your testimony and spiritual growth?
- Think of a time when you felt you had reached the limits of your spiritual understanding. What did you do to prepare yourself for further insights or breakthroughs in your faith journey?
- Think of a time when you experienced a period of waiting or searching for answers, only to have the answer come in an unexpected way or time. How did that experience teach you patience or trust in God’s timing?
- Think of a time when you were faced with a change in understanding or belief that challenged you. How did you navigate that period, and where did you find the strength or guidance to embrace new insights?
- Think of a time when you felt spiritually “re-homed,” similar to how Pluto was reclassified, by realizing your place or purpose in God’s plan was different than you had thought. How did you come to accept and understand this new spiritual identity?
- Think of a time when you discovered a new spiritual truth or insight after pursuing diligent study or prayer. What did that journey of seeking teach you about the nature of revelation and God’s willingness to guide you?
Asking questions and searching for meaning are a natural and normal part of our mortal experience. At times, not readily having complete answers can bring us to the edge of our understanding, and those limitations can feel frustrating or overwhelming. Wondrously, Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness for all of us is designed to help us progress despite our limitations and accomplish what we cannot accomplish on our own, even without a complete knowledge of all things. God’s plan is merciful toward the limitations of our humanity; provides us with our Savior, Jesus Christ, to be our Good Shepherd; and inspires us to use our agency to choose Him.
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf has taught that “asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness,” but rather “it’s a precursor of growth.” Speaking directly to our personal effort as seekers of truth, our prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, has taught that we must have “a deep desire” and “ask with a sincere heart [and] real intent, having faith in [Jesus] Christ.” He has further taught that “‘real intent’ means that one really intends to follow the divine direction given.”
Engaging Questions:
- When you reach the edge of your understanding, how do you stay motivated to continue seeking answers and growth?
- Have you ever felt frustrated or overwhelmed by not having complete answers? How did you navigate that season in your life?
- What does it mean to you that God’s plan is designed to help us progress despite our limitations?
- How does recognizing our limitations change the way we approach questions of faith and personal growth?
- How do you remind yourself of the Savior’s role as your Good Shepherd when you are seeking answers or feeling uncertain?
- Elder Uchtdorf said that “asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness.” What experiences have helped you see questions as a step toward growth?
- President Nelson speaks about seeking truth with “real intent.” What does that look like in your daily life, and how do you prepare yourself to act on the answers you receive?
- How can we develop “a deep desire” to seek answers and grow spiritually, even when it feels challenging?
- What helps you trust in God’s timing and mercy when you don’t yet have all the answers you’re searching for?
- How can you use your agency to actively choose Jesus Christ in moments of doubt or questioning?
Object Lessons:
- “The Question Jar”
- Materials: A jar or clear container, slips of paper, and pens.
- Activity: Invite participants to write down questions they have about life, faith, or spiritual topics on the slips of paper and place them in the jar. Discuss that, like the jar, our minds can hold many questions at once. Sometimes answers come quickly, and sometimes they take time, but God’s plan encourages us to keep asking. Take a few slips out and read them aloud, discussing how seeking answers to these questions can lead to growth.
- Lesson: Just as the jar holds questions without being overwhelmed, we can hold space for our questions and uncertainties, trusting that God’s plan includes answers that come in His time and way.
- “The Puzzle of Faith”
- Materials: A jigsaw puzzle with a few pieces removed or a puzzle missing its box cover (showing the completed picture).
- Activity: Have participants try to put the puzzle together without knowing what the final picture looks like. As they work, explain that searching for answers to life’s questions is like trying to complete a puzzle when you can’t see the whole picture yet. Discuss that although it may be frustrating at times, each piece of knowledge helps us see more of God’s plan.
- Lesson: Even when we don’t have all the pieces, we can trust that God has the complete picture and is helping us piece it together bit by bit.
- “The Compass and the Map”
- Materials: A physical compass and a map.
- Activity: Explain that when we travel to a new place, we might not always know the full route, but a compass and map can help us find our way. The compass represents our faith in Jesus Christ, and the map symbolizes God’s teachings and guidance through the scriptures and prophets. Discuss that when we have questions or face challenges, we may not have all the answers, but these tools help keep us on the right path.
- Lesson: We may not see every detail of our journey or destination, but with faith and guidance from God, we can move forward with confidence and trust.
- “The Seed of Inquiry”
- Materials: A small pot, soil, and seeds.
- Activity: Plant a seed in front of the group and explain that just as seeds need time, water, and sunlight to grow, our questions need patience, study, and prayer to bring understanding. Discuss that growth happens over time, and we must nourish our spiritual questions to see them develop into deeper understanding.
- Lesson: Just as the growth of a seed takes time and care, finding answers and understanding God’s plan often requires patience and ongoing effort.
Activities
- “The Question Walk”
- Materials: Cards or pieces of paper with thought-provoking questions written on them.
- Activity: Set up stations around a room or outdoor area with different questions for participants to reflect on or discuss in pairs. These questions could relate to faith, life challenges, or personal growth. After completing the walk, come together and discuss what insights they gained and how seeking answers helps deepen their faith.
- Lesson: Walking through questions and reflecting on them shows that spiritual growth is a journey, and sharing insights with others can lead to greater understanding and community support.
- “Truth Seeking Timeline”
- Materials: A large piece of paper or whiteboard, markers.
- Activity: Create a timeline representing life and label different points with questions people might ask at various stages (e.g., childhood, adolescence, adulthood). Discuss how the questions we ask change as we grow and how seeking answers leads to different kinds of spiritual growth at each stage.
- Lesson: God’s plan supports our growth at every stage of life, showing that questions are an essential part of our development and that answers come as we are ready for them.
- “The Trust Experiment”
- Materials: A blindfold and a simple obstacle course.
- Activity: Have one participant put on a blindfold and try to navigate the course with the help of another participant giving verbal directions. Explain that the person guiding represents God, scriptures, or the Spirit. The one navigating is us as we search for answers without always seeing the path clearly.
- Lesson: This activity illustrates that even when we can’t see the way forward or understand everything, we can trust in God and His guidance to lead us through.
- “Shared Stories of Seeking”
- Materials: Paper and pens or an open forum setting.
- Activity: Invite participants to write down or share a story of a time when they had a significant question about life or faith. What did they do to seek answers? How did they grow through the process, even if the answer didn’t come right away? Collect these stories to share as a booklet or read them aloud.
- Lesson: Sharing experiences helps others see that they are not alone in their questioning and seeking. It also demonstrates that growth often comes through the process of seeking rather than just finding the answer.
- “Star Gazing and Reflection”
- Materials: Blankets, a clear night sky, and a notebook.
- Activity: Gather participants for an evening of star gazing. Encourage them to think about the vastness of the universe and reflect on their own questions and the ways God has provided answers or comfort in their lives. Invite them to write down thoughts or impressions that come during this time.
- Lesson: Just as the stars remind us of God’s vast creations, contemplating our place in His plan and the answers we seek can help us feel connected to Him and trust that He knows the answers, even when we don’t.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you had a question about your faith that seemed difficult or even daunting to ask. How did seeking answers to that question help you grow spiritually, and what did you learn from the process?
Think of a time when you felt frustrated or overwhelmed by not having answers to a question you deeply cared about. What helped you move forward in faith during that time of uncertainty?
Think of a time when you experienced the mercy of God’s plan despite your own limitations. How did you feel supported, and what role did the Savior play in helping you through that period?
Think of a time when you made the choice to trust in Jesus Christ even though you didn’t have all the answers. What did that decision teach you about faith and agency?
Think of a time when you were encouraged by the idea that asking questions is a sign of growth, not weakness. How did this perspective change the way you approached seeking truth or understanding?
Think of a time when you received an answer to a question in a way that you did not expect. How did this experience strengthen your testimony and show you God’s love?
Think of a time when someone else’s questions or search for understanding inspired your own journey of learning. How did their example affect your willingness to explore deeper questions of faith?
Think of a time when you experienced a spiritual breakthrough after choosing to ask with “real intent.” What did that process of sincere seeking teach you about the importance of intention in prayer and study?
Think of a time when you felt the presence of the Good Shepherd guiding you through a season of searching or doubt. How did recognizing His presence bring you peace or clarity?
Think of a time when you learned to embrace the journey of not knowing all the answers but still choosing to move forward in faith. How did this shape your understanding of what it means to trust God’s plan for your life?
Our personal effort to grow in wisdom may lead us to examine our questions, complex or otherwise, through the lens of cause and effect, seeking out and recognizing patterns and then forming narratives to give shape to our understanding and fill in perceived gaps in knowledge. When we consider our pursuit of spiritual knowledge, however, these thoughtful processes may be helpful at times but on their own can be incomplete as we look to discern things pertaining to Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ, Their gospel, Their Church, and Their plan for all of us.
God the Father and His Son’s way of imparting Their wisdom to us prioritizes inviting the power of the Holy Ghost to be our personal teacher as we center Jesus Christ in our lives and in our faithful seeking for Their answers and Their meaning. They invite us to discover truth through devoted time spent studying holy scripture and to seek for latter-day revealed truth for our day and our time, imparted by modern-day prophets and apostles. They entreat us to spend regular, worshipful time in the house of the Lord and to take to our knees in prayer “to access information from heaven.” Jesus’s promise to those present to hear His Sermon on the Mount is as true for us in our day as it was during His earthly ministry: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Our Savior assures that “your Father which is in heaven give[s] good things to them that ask him.”
The Lord’s method of teaching is “line upon line, precept upon precept.” We may be required to “wait upon the Lord” in the space between our current line of understanding and the next yet to be delivered. This sacred space can be a place where our greatest spiritual conditioning can occur—the site where we can “bear with patience” our earnest seeking and renew our strength to continue to keep the sacred promises we have made to God through covenant.
Our covenant relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ signals our prevailing citizenship in God’s kingdom. And our residency therein requires aligning our life to divine principles and putting in the effort to grow spiritually.
Engaging Questions:
- How have you experienced growth by examining your questions through the lens of cause and effect?
- What patterns or narratives have you found helpful in understanding your spiritual journey, and where do you feel gaps still remain?
- When seeking answers, how do you make space for the Holy Ghost to be your personal teacher?
- In what ways do you center Jesus Christ in your life to help guide your search for truth and meaning?
- What role do scripture study and modern-day revelation play in your pursuit of spiritual knowledge?
- How does spending time in the house of the Lord enhance your understanding and strengthen your faith?
- When was a time you felt answers to your prayers or guidance came after a period of waiting and patience?
- How do you sustain your hope and trust while waiting for the next line of understanding to be revealed?
- What have you learned about bearing with patience during times of spiritual seeking or uncertainty?
- How does your covenant relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ influence the way you align your life with divine principles?
- In what ways have you found that aligning your life with divine principles helps you feel like a citizen of God’s kingdom?
- What practices help you renew your strength and commitment to keep your sacred promises to God?
- How do you feel your efforts to seek wisdom and grow spiritually have impacted your relationship with God and your ability to find peace?
- What does the promise “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find” mean to you personally, and how have you seen it fulfilled in your life?
- How do you stay committed to your spiritual growth when immediate answers or understanding seem elusive?
Object Lessons:
- “The Hourglass of Patience”
- Materials: An hourglass or a timer.
- Activity: Show the hourglass and turn it over, allowing participants to watch the sand flow slowly from one chamber to another. Discuss how gaining spiritual knowledge often requires time and patience. Point out that while the sand may seem to move slowly, it is steadily progressing, just as our spiritual growth does when we seek knowledge “line upon line.”
- Lesson: Spiritual understanding takes time and effort. We may feel like we are waiting, but in the process, we are being refined and conditioned.
- “The Unfinished Painting”
- Materials: A partially completed painting or drawing.
- Activity: Show a half-finished painting and explain that this represents our current understanding. We may only see part of the picture now, but as we continue studying the gospel, praying, and seeking guidance from the Holy Ghost, more of the picture will become clear.
- Lesson: Just as a painting requires time and effort to complete, our spiritual understanding unfolds gradually as we persist in seeking truth.
- “The Locked Door”
- Materials: A locked door and a key.
- Activity: Present a locked door and explain that the key to unlocking it is our faithful efforts in prayer, scripture study, and temple worship. Unlock the door to demonstrate that when we “knock,” the door to understanding and revelation will be opened.
- Lesson: Jesus Christ promised, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Our efforts are the key to receiving divine answers.
- “The Layered Candle”
- Materials: A layered candle (different colors or levels of wax).
- Activity: Light the candle and explain that each layer represents a step in the “line upon line” process of learning. As the candle burns, it moves through the layers, symbolizing how we progress in understanding by building on previous knowledge.
- Lesson: Each layer of understanding builds on the previous one. Over time, the light of truth becomes brighter and clearer as we continue our faithful seeking.
- “The Seeds of Revelation”
- Materials: A small pot, soil, and seeds.
- Activity: Plant seeds in soil and explain that the seeds represent our efforts to seek spiritual knowledge. Discuss how they need time, nourishment, and care (scripture study, prayer, and worship) to grow. Point out that the growth is not immediately visible, but over time, the seeds will sprout and flourish.
- Lesson: Seeking spiritual truth requires consistent effort and patience, just as growing a plant requires time and care.
Activities
- “The Path of Seeking”
- Materials: A simple maze or labyrinth drawn on paper, or create one with tape on the floor.
- Activity: Participants navigate the maze, encountering “questions” at certain points where they must reflect on or discuss how they would seek answers (e.g., scripture study, prayer, temple worship). At the end of the maze, they “find” a truth or principle written on a card.
- Lesson: The path to understanding can be complex and require effort, but persistence and the right tools (prayer, study, revelation) will guide us to truth.
- “The Question Board”
- Materials: A whiteboard or large sheet of paper and markers.
- Activity: Have participants write down spiritual or life questions they’ve struggled with. Discuss how they can seek answers through the Holy Ghost, scriptures, temple worship, and counsel from prophets. Encourage them to brainstorm ways they’ve found answers in the past and share those experiences.
- Lesson: Writing and sharing questions helps participants see that seeking is part of spiritual growth and that God’s plan provides tools to find answers.
- “Spiritual Fitness Training”
- Materials: None.
- Activity: Create an analogy comparing physical exercise to spiritual growth. Set up a series of “spiritual exercises,” such as reciting a favorite scripture, sharing a prayer experience, or explaining how they’ve received guidance through the Holy Ghost. Discuss how regular spiritual “training” strengthens faith and understanding.
- Lesson: Just as physical fitness requires regular effort, so does spiritual growth. The more we engage in spiritual practices, the stronger and more aligned we become with God’s will.
- “Scripture Scavenger Hunt”
- Materials: Scriptures and a list of clues or prompts.
- Activity: Create a scavenger hunt where participants search for scriptures that answer specific questions or reveal patterns of revelation and truth. For example, “Find a scripture that teaches about waiting on the Lord” or “Find a verse about the Holy Ghost as a teacher.”
- Lesson: This activity helps participants see how the scriptures provide answers and invite the Holy Ghost to teach us as we study.
- “Mapping the Sacred Space”
- Materials: Paper and markers or a whiteboard.
- Activity: Ask participants to draw a map representing their current spiritual understanding. Mark places where they’ve had questions answered or experienced growth. Leave blank spaces to represent areas they’re still seeking to understand. Discuss how “sacred spaces” of waiting on the Lord can be places of spiritual conditioning.
- Lesson: The map shows that while we may not have all the answers, the journey itself is sacred, and God is with us in every phase of our learning.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you sought answers to a complex spiritual question. How did you come to rely on the Holy Ghost to guide you, and what did you learn in the process?
Think of a time when you felt strengthened by the promise to “ask, seek, and knock.” What steps did you take to act on this promise, and how did it bring clarity or peace to your life?
Think of a time when you found meaning or understanding through “line upon line” learning. How did patience in this process help you grow spiritually and deepen your faith?
Think of a time when you studied the scriptures or teachings of modern-day prophets and felt inspired by the answers you found. How did this experience help you center Jesus Christ in your life?
Think of a time when you waited on the Lord for answers or guidance. What did you learn about patience, trust, and spiritual conditioning during that waiting period?
Think of a time when spending time in the house of the Lord or in prayer provided you with a powerful sense of direction or peace. How did this worshipful time affect your ability to stay aligned with divine principles?
Think of a time when your covenant relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ gave you strength during a challenging moment. How did remembering your covenants bring you hope and purpose?
Think of a time when recognizing a pattern or cause-and-effect relationship in your life helped you better understand God’s hand in your journey. How did this realization deepen your gratitude for His guidance?
Think of a time when you were required to bear with patience while seeking understanding. How did staying faithful during this sacred space of waiting bless you with renewed strength?
Think of a time when aligning your life with divine principles required effort and sacrifice. How did this alignment help you feel more rooted in your identity as a citizen of God’s kingdom?
One key principle taught throughout the Book of Mormon is when God’s children choose to demonstrate obedience and keep their covenants, they receive continual spiritual guidance and direction. The Lord has told us that through our obedience and diligence, we may gain knowledge and intelligence. God’s laws and commandments are not designed to be an obstacle in our life but a powerful gateway to personal revelation and spiritual education. President Nelson has taught the crucial truth that “revelation from God is always compatible with His eternal law” and further that “it never contradicts His doctrine.” Your willing obedience to God’s commands, despite not having a complete knowledge of His reasons, places you in the company of His prophets. Moses 5 teaches us about a particular interaction between Adam and an angel of the Lord.
After the Lord gave Adam and Eve “commandments, that they should worship the Lord their God, and should offer the firstlings of their flocks, for an offering unto the Lord,” the scriptures say that “Adam was obedient unto the commandments of the Lord.” We go on to read that “after many days an angel of the Lord appeared unto Adam, saying: Why dost thou offer sacrifices unto the Lord? And Adam said unto him: I know not, save the Lord commanded me.”
Adam’s obedience preceded his understanding and prepared him to receive the sacred knowledge that he was participating in a sacred symbol of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Our humble obedience will, likewise, pave the way for our spiritual discernment of God’s ways and His divine purpose for each of us. Reaching to elevate our obedience brings us closer to our Savior, Jesus Christ, because obedience to His laws and commandments is effectually reaching out to Him.
Additionally, our fidelity to the knowledge and wisdom we have already inherited through our faithful adherence to gospel principles and sacred covenants is crucial preparation for our readiness to receive and be stewards of communications from the Holy Spirit.
Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are the source of all truth and share Their wisdom liberally. Also, understanding that we do not possess any personal knowledge independent of God can help us know who to turn to and where to place our primary trust.
Engaging Questions:
- How have you experienced continual spiritual guidance and direction as a result of demonstrating obedience and keeping your covenants?
- In what ways have God’s laws and commandments acted as a gateway to personal revelation and spiritual education in your life?
- How does President Nelson’s teaching that “revelation from God is always compatible with His eternal law” influence your understanding of personal revelation?
- What can we learn from Adam’s example of obedience preceding understanding in Moses 5? How might this principle apply to your own life experiences?
- Have you ever obeyed a commandment without fully understanding the reasons behind it? What was the outcome of your obedience?
- How does humble obedience pave the way for spiritual discernment of God’s ways and His divine purpose for you?
- In what ways does elevating our obedience bring us closer to Jesus Christ?
- How does faithfully adhering to gospel principles and sacred covenants prepare us to receive and steward communications from the Holy Spirit?
- What does it mean to you that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are the source of all truth and share Their wisdom liberally?
- How can understanding that we do not possess any personal knowledge independent of God help us place our primary trust in Him?
- How do you reconcile the need for obedience with the desire for personal understanding and knowledge?
- What role does faith play when we are asked to obey commandments without knowing all the reasons why?
- How can we cultivate a spirit of humble obedience in our daily lives?
- In what ways can we demonstrate fidelity to the knowledge and wisdom we’ve already received through our covenants?
- How does trusting in God’s wisdom and timing influence your approach to challenges and uncertainties?
Object Lessons:
- “The Obedience Pathway”
- Materials: A path made of stepping stones (real or paper), with scriptures or gospel principles written on them.
- Activity: Lay out the path, representing obedience to God’s commandments, leading to a destination marked “Revelation” or “Spiritual Understanding.” As participants walk the path, explain that each step represents obeying a commandment or keeping a covenant. Some steps may seem unclear, but they still lead forward.
- Lesson: Just as Adam obeyed without fully understanding, our consistent obedience builds a foundation for receiving further light and knowledge from God.
- “The Covered Lantern”
- Materials: A lantern or flashlight and a cloth.
- Activity: Cover the lantern with the cloth and gradually remove it as you discuss how obedience removes the barriers to receiving revelation. The more diligently we align our lives with God’s commandments, the more clearly His light can shine and guide us.
- Lesson: Obedience clears the path for the Holy Ghost to illuminate our understanding and lead us toward greater truth.
- “The Locked Box”
- Materials: A locked box, a key, and a note inside with a scripture about revelation (e.g., D&C 93:1).
- Activity: Present the locked box and explain that it represents spiritual understanding. The key represents obedience to commandments and covenants. Open the box to reveal the scripture, symbolizing how obedience unlocks revelation and divine guidance.
- Lesson: Revelation is not random—it is unlocked by our obedience and faithfulness to God’s laws.
- “The Obedience Seed”
- Materials: A pot, soil, seeds, and water.
- Activity: Plant a seed in the soil, explaining that the seed represents our faith and obedience to God. Discuss how consistent watering and care (daily acts of obedience) lead to growth, even if we can’t immediately see the results.
- Lesson: Obedience is like nurturing a seed—it requires trust and patience, but it ultimately leads to spiritual growth and revelation.
- “The Filter of Truth”
- Materials: A water filter or coffee filter, water, and some dirt or sand.
- Activity: Pour the water through the filter to remove the impurities, explaining that obedience acts as a filter for our lives, allowing us to discern God’s truth and receive revelation without the “impurities” of distractions or sin.
- Lesson: Obedience helps us focus on God’s eternal truths and removes the noise that can cloud our understanding.
Activities
- “Commandment Connection”
- Materials: Cards with commandments or gospel principles written on them and corresponding blessings or revelations on separate cards.
- Activity: Have participants match the commandments to the blessings or spiritual truths they unlock (e.g., tithing leads to financial stability and faith, Sabbath observance brings spiritual renewal). Discuss how obedience leads to specific blessings and revelation.
- Lesson: Obedience is not arbitrary; it is tied to specific blessings and helps us align with God’s will.
- “The Waiting Room of Revelation”
- Materials: A small waiting area set up with chairs and a sign that says “Wait upon the Lord” (Isaiah 40:31).
- Activity: Invite participants to write down questions or things they are seeking revelation about. Discuss how being obedient and patient, like Adam, allows us to prepare for answers that may come in God’s time. Share how small acts of obedience while waiting build spiritual strength.
- Lesson: Obedience in the present prepares us for future revelation, even if we don’t immediately understand God’s timing.
- “Covenant Obedience Role Play”
- Materials: None.
- Activity: Divide participants into pairs or small groups. Assign each group a real-life scenario (e.g., choosing to keep the Sabbath day holy despite peer pressure) and have them act out how obedience might look in that situation. Afterward, discuss the blessings or insights that might come from obeying in challenging circumstances.
- Lesson: Obedience often requires faith and courage, but it aligns us with God’s promises and brings greater spiritual growth.
- “Pattern Seekers”
- Materials: Scriptures and a list of references about obedience and revelation.
- Activity: Have participants search the scriptures for examples where obedience led to revelation or blessings (e.g., Adam and Eve, Nephi building the ship, the Brother of Jared seeing the Lord). Discuss the patterns they notice.
- Lesson: Scripture teaches us that obedience consistently precedes revelation and blessings, providing patterns we can follow in our own lives.
- “The Covenant Reminder Bracelet”
- Materials: String, beads, or other bracelet-making supplies.
- Activity: Have participants create bracelets with beads representing covenants they’ve made (e.g., baptism, sacrament, temple covenants). Encourage them to wear the bracelet as a reminder of their covenants and the blessings of obedience.
- Lesson: Covenants are sacred commitments that align us with God’s will. By remembering and keeping our covenants, we open the door to personal revelation and spiritual strength.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
- Think of a time when you chose to obey a commandment or prompting without fully understanding why. How did your obedience lead to greater understanding or spiritual growth?
- Think of a time when you received guidance or direction from God after demonstrating faith and diligence. What did you learn about the connection between obedience and revelation?
- Think of a time when following God’s commandments felt like a challenge or an obstacle. How did you come to see those commandments as a gateway to personal revelation and growth?
- Think of a time when you felt closer to the Savior through your efforts to live His teachings. How did that experience strengthen your trust in Him and His plan for you?
- Think of a time when you acted in faith, trusting God’s commandments despite not fully understanding them. What blessings or insights came as a result of that trust?
- Think of a time when you realized that the spiritual knowledge you gained was directly tied to your faithful adherence to gospel principles. How did that realization motivate you to stay obedient?
- Think of a time when you felt the Spirit confirming the truth of something you were striving to live. How did that experience help you trust in the wisdom and guidance of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ?
- Think of a time when you had to lean on the knowledge and understanding you already had to navigate a challenging situation. How did staying faithful to what you knew prepare you for further revelation?
- Think of a time when you felt overwhelmed by the complexity of life but found clarity through obedience to a simple gospel principle. How did that clarity help you move forward?
- Think of a time when you recognized that any personal wisdom you possessed was a gift from God. How did this realization change the way you approached decision-making or sought guidance?
The Old Testament account of Naaman, the military leader who was healed of leprosy by the prophet Elisha, is a particular favorite of mine. The story illustrates how the firm faith of a “little maid” altered the course of one man’s life and, for all believers, revealed the reach of God’s mercy to those who place their trust in Him and His prophet. Though nameless, this young girl also helped to push our understanding forward. And Naaman’s belief on her testimony inspired him to take his petition for healing to God’s chosen servant.
Naaman’s response to the prophet Elisha’s instructions to wash in the river Jordan was at first skeptical and indignant. But an invitation for him to be obedient to the prophet’s counsel made way for his healing and his dramatic understanding that God was real.
We may find that some of our spiritual petitions have reasonably discernible answers and may not create significant discomfort for us. Or, like Naaman, we may find that other needs are more challenging and may create difficult and complex feelings within us. Or, similar to the description of the astronomers’ early conclusions about our solar system, in our search for spiritual truth, we may reach less accurate interpretations if we rely exclusively on our own limited understanding, a sorrowful and unintended consequence of which may lead us away from the covenant path. And moreover, some questions may persist until God, who “has all power” and “all wisdom, and all understanding,” who “comprehendeth all things” in His mercy, provides enlightenment through our belief on His name.
One significant caution from Naaman’s account is that resisting obedience to God’s laws and commandments may prolong or delay our growth. We are blessed to have Jesus Christ as our Master Healer. Our obedience to God’s laws and commandments can open the way for our Savior to provide the understanding and healing He knows we need, according to His prescribed treatment plan for us.
Elder Richard G. Scott taught that “this life is an experience in profound trust—trust in Jesus Christ, trust in His teachings, trust in our capacity as led by the Holy Spirit to obey those teachings for happiness now and for a purposeful, supremely happy eternal existence. To trust means to obey willingly without knowing the end from the beginning (see Prov. 3:5–7). To produce fruit, your trust in the Lord must be more powerful and enduring than your confidence in your own personal feelings and experience.”
Elder Scott continues: “To exercise faith is to trust that the Lord knows what He is doing with you and that He can accomplish it for your eternal good even though you cannot understand how He can possibly do it.”
Object Lessons:
- How does the faith and testimony of the “little maid” in Naaman’s story inspire you to share your beliefs with others, even in challenging circumstances?
- Naaman initially resisted the prophet Elisha’s counsel. Have you ever struggled to follow divine counsel? What helped you overcome that resistance?
- How has trusting in God’s prescribed plan for you brought healing or understanding in your life, even when it was initially difficult to follow?
- Elder Scott taught that trusting in the Lord means to “obey willingly without knowing the end from the beginning.” How do you cultivate this kind of trust in your life?
- What experiences have strengthened your confidence in Jesus Christ as the Master Healer who knows exactly what you need?
- Naaman’s healing required obedience despite his skepticism. How do you find strength to obey commandments or counsel that you don’t fully understand?
- Sister Browning reminds us that God provides enlightenment through belief in His name. How have you experienced moments of clarity or peace through faith in Him?
- What lessons can we learn from Naaman about humility and the willingness to accept answers that may initially seem simple or unexpected?
- How can we guard against relying solely on our limited understanding when seeking spiritual answers?
- When you face complex or unresolved spiritual questions, what practices help you remain on the covenant path while you wait for answers?
- Naaman’s healing required him to trust both a prophet and the Lord. How do you develop and maintain trust in modern-day prophets and their counsel?
- Elder Scott described life as an “experience in profound trust.” What personal experiences have taught you to trust the Lord’s plan over your own?
- How can obedience to God’s commandments help us better access the healing power of Jesus Christ?
- Sister Browning emphasizes that resisting obedience may delay our growth. How have you seen growth or blessings follow your obedience to divine counsel?
- What does it mean to you that the Lord “knows what He is doing with you” even when you don’t understand how He is working in your life?
Object Lessons:
- “The Cloudy Glass of Understanding”
- Materials: A glass with cloudy water, a pitcher of clear water, and a stir stick.
- Activity: Show the cloudy water and explain that it represents our limited understanding. Slowly pour in the clear water, stirring as you go, until the glass becomes clear. Discuss how obedience to God’s commandments and trusting His prophets can clear our spiritual vision, even when we initially struggle to understand His instructions.
- Lesson: Like Naaman, when we trust in God’s plan and follow His guidance, our understanding becomes clearer, and we can see His purpose more fully.
- “The Simple Remedy”
- Materials: A bandage and a bottle of water.
- Activity: Talk about how Naaman was asked to wash in the Jordan—a simple act that didn’t align with his expectations of a grand cure. Place the bandage on someone and pour water over it, symbolizing the simplicity of God’s instructions. Ask, “How often do we complicate things when God gives us clear and simple guidance?”
- Lesson: Obedience, even to seemingly simple or unexpected instructions, can lead to profound spiritual healing and growth.
- “The Jordan River Jar”
- Materials: A jar, water, and small stones.
- Activity: As you fill the jar with water and stones, explain that the stones represent moments of doubt or resistance, like Naaman’s initial reaction. Show how the water (trust and obedience) flows around the stones, filling the jar.
- Lesson: Even when we have doubts, trust and obedience can still fill our lives with blessings, just as Naaman’s eventual obedience brought him healing.
- “The Map of Trust”
- Materials: A blank map or piece of paper and a pen.
- Activity: Draw a path leading to a goal but leave sections of the path blank. Discuss how we may not always see the full journey or destination, just as Naaman didn’t understand Elisha’s instructions. Emphasize the importance of following God’s directions step by step, trusting Him to guide us.
- Lesson: Trusting God means taking each step of obedience, even when we don’t see the whole picture.
- “The Test Tube of Faith”
- Materials: A test tube or clear container, baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring.
- Activity: Mix the baking soda and vinegar in the tube to create a reaction, explaining that it represents the moment of enlightenment or healing that comes after we act in faith and obedience. Add food coloring to represent the joy and clarity that follows.
- Lesson: Faith and obedience often lead to unexpected, transformative outcomes, just as Naaman experienced after following Elisha’s instructions.
Activities
- “Faithful Acts Role Play”
- Materials: None.
- Activity: Divide participants into small groups and assign them scenarios where obedience is required without full understanding (e.g., keeping the Sabbath despite a busy schedule, tithing when money is tight). Have them act out how they might respond and what blessings might follow.
- Lesson: Discuss how obedience in these scenarios might require trust but ultimately leads to spiritual growth and blessings.
- “The River Jordan Challenge”
- Materials: A small pool or tub of water, or a series of “steps” marked on paper leading to a goal.
- Activity: Create a challenge where participants must follow simple instructions (e.g., dipping their hand into the water or completing each step of the course). Emphasize that their willingness to complete the task mirrors Naaman’s obedience.
- Lesson: Sometimes God’s answers to our problems may seem too simple or unconventional, but our trust and obedience open the door for miracles.
- “The Testimony Chain”
- Materials: Paper strips and pens.
- Activity: Have participants write down a time when obedience to God’s commandments or trusting His prophets led to blessings in their lives. Link the strips together to form a chain of testimonies, showing the collective strength that comes from trusting God.
- Lesson: Our individual acts of obedience strengthen not only our own faith but also the faith of others, just as the maid’s testimony helped Naaman.
- “The Cause-and-Effect Board”
- Materials: A whiteboard or large poster and markers.
- Activity: Draw two columns: “Act of Obedience” and “Result/Effect.” Have participants brainstorm examples from scripture (e.g., Naaman washing in the Jordan, Moses parting the Red Sea) and their own lives. Fill in both columns with these examples.
- Lesson: Show how obedience leads to blessings, emphasizing that trust in God’s commandments always brings spiritual rewards, even if the blessings are delayed or unexpected.
- “The Little Maid’s Faith Sharing”
- Materials: None.
- Activity: Ask participants to reflect on someone whose testimony or encouragement inspired their faith (like the maid inspired Naaman). Invite them to share these stories and discuss how small acts of faith and testimony can have significant impacts on others.
- Lesson: Like the maid, our words and actions can lead others to trust God and experience His mercy.
Personal Sharing Prompts:
Think of a time when you were hesitant to follow spiritual counsel but ultimately chose to trust in God’s plan. What was the outcome, and how did it strengthen your faith?
Think of a time when someone else’s testimony inspired you to take a step of faith or trust in God. How did their example influence your spiritual growth?
Think of a time when you faced a situation that challenged your trust in the Lord. How did you move forward, and what did you learn about His ability to heal and guide you?
Think of a time when the Lord’s “treatment plan” for you was different from what you expected. How did obedience to His commandments or counsel lead to unexpected blessings or understanding?
Think of a time when you realized you were relying too much on your own understanding rather than trusting in God’s wisdom. How did you shift your focus back to Him?
Think of a time when you witnessed someone’s faith or trust in God bring about significant healing or change in their life. What impact did their example have on you?
Think of a time when obedience to a seemingly simple commandment brought profound spiritual blessings. How did that experience deepen your commitment to following the Lord?
Think of a time when you had to trust the Lord without knowing “the end from the beginning.” How did exercising that trust change the way you approach challenges or uncertainties?
Think of a time when a small act of faith on your part led to a significant understanding or spiritual breakthrough. How did that experience teach you about God’s mercy and His perfect timing?
Think of a time when you felt spiritually “stuck” and were reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s process. What did you learn about patience, obedience, and His healing power?
Another wonderful lesson, thank you! Your depth and insight are inspiring and your discussion points lead to greater introspection and thoughtful responses from our Relief Society sisters.