Study Guide for "Foundations of Faith"

In his General Conference address, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speaks about the importance of building and maintaining strong foundations of faith. He emphasizes that, much like physical and mental development, spiritual growth requires consistent effort and dedication. Elder Cook shares personal anecdotes and scriptural examples to illustrate how faith is developed over time and how it can support us through life's challenges. His message encourages us to focus on the essentials of spiritual practice, such as prayer, scripture study, and participation in sacred ordinances, to build enduring faith in Jesus Christ.

Before Reading

Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:

What are the similarities between physical, mental, and spiritual development according to Elder Cook?
How does Elder Cook suggest we build enduring faith?
What role does personal religious observance play in establishing strong foundations of faith?
What lessons can we learn from historical Church events and figures about faith and adversity?
What are some of the blessings and accomplishments of faith as mentioned by Elder Cook?

Topics

Build Faith Through Consistent Effort

Elder Cook explains that just as physical and mental skills are honed through consistent practice, spiritual growth requires regular, dedicated effort. He emphasizes the importance of personal religious observance, such as attending sacrament meetings, studying scriptures, praying, and serving in callings.

Personal foundations, like many worthwhile pursuits, are usually built slowly—one layer, one experience, one challenge, one setback, and one success at a time.

For enduring faith and to have the constant companionship of the Spirit, there is no substitute for the individual religious observance that is comparable to physical and mental development.

Why is consistent effort important in building faith?
What are some specific practices Elder Cook mentions that contribute to spiritual growth?
How can you incorporate more consistent spiritual practices into your daily routine?
What are some experiences where you have felt your faith grow through regular observance of gospel principles?

Understand the Role of Spiritual Experiences

Elder Cook highlights the importance of spiritual experiences, such as receiving confirmation from the Holy Ghost. He shares a personal story about how a spiritual confirmation he received as a teenager helped solidify his faith and guide his future decisions.

For enduring faith and to have the constant companionship of the Spirit, there is no substitute for the individual religious observance that is comparable to physical and mental development.

As I prayed sincerely that night, the Spirit confirmed to me the truth of all three questions.

What role do spiritual experiences play in building faith?
How did Elder Cook's spiritual confirmation influence his life?
Can you recall a spiritual experience that has had a significant impact on your faith?
How can you seek out and recognize spiritual confirmations in your life?

Learn from Historical Examples of Faith

Elder Cook recounts the experience of early Church members, particularly the challenges faced during the completion of the Kirtland Temple and the financial crisis of 1837. He illustrates how these events tested the faith of the Saints but ultimately strengthened their spiritual foundations.

The completion of the Kirtland Temple was foundational for the entire Church. It was accompanied by spiritual outpourings, doctrinal revelations, and restoration of essential keys for the continuing establishment of the Church.

Adversity should not be viewed as either disfavor from the Lord or a withdrawal of His blessings.

What lessons can we learn from the early Saints" experiences with adversity?
How did the completion of the Kirtland Temple strengthen the faith of the early Church members?
How have you seen adversity strengthen your own faith?
What can you do to maintain your faith during challenging times?

Recognize the Power of Faith

Elder Cook discusses the principle of faith as a source of power, drawing on the scriptural account of the woman who was healed by touching the Savior's garment. He emphasizes that faith can bring about blessings and miracles beyond our comprehension.

Faith is a principle of power.

Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.

How does faith function as a principle of power?
What can we learn from the story of the woman who touched the Savior's garment?
In what ways have you experienced the power of faith in your life?
How can you strengthen your faith to access greater spiritual power?

Embrace the Blessings of Faith

Elder Cook outlines the numerous blessings that come from having faith in Jesus Christ, including forgiveness of sins, communion with the Holy Spirit, and strength to endure challenges. He underscores that faith in Jesus Christ is the essential foundation for eternal salvation and exaltation.

What, then, are the blessings of faith? What does faith accomplish? The list is almost endless.

In the end, our faith in Jesus Christ is the essential foundation for our eternal salvation and exaltation.

What are some of the blessings that come from having faith in Jesus Christ?
Why is faith in Jesus Christ essential for our eternal salvation and exaltation?
How have you experienced the blessings of faith in your life?
What can you do to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ to receive more of these blessings?