Study Guide for "Has the Day of Miracles Ceased?"

In his General Conference talk, Elder Donald L. Hallstrom of the Seventy explores the concept of miracles in our lives. Through a poignant story of a miraculous survival and recovery, Elder Hallstrom delves into the nature of miracles, the role of faith, and the eternal perspective needed to understand God's will. He challenges us to recognize and appreciate the spiritual miracles that surround us and to place our faith firmly in God's plan and the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Before Reading

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

What is a miracle according to Elder Hallstrom?
How did Clark Fales experience miracles during his traumatic event?
What role does faith play in the receipt of miracles?
How should we understand miracles in the context of God's eternal plan?
What are some examples of spiritual miracles mentioned by Elder Hallstrom?

Topics

Recognize the Nature of Miracles

Elder Hallstrom defines a miracle as a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand. He emphasizes that miracles are not only physical healings or avoiding danger but also include spiritual blessings and divine interventions that align with God's eternal plan.

Often we describe a miracle as being healed without a full explanation by medical science or as avoiding catastrophic danger by heeding a clear prompting.

Defining a miracle as "a beneficial event brought about through divine power that mortals do not understand" gives an expanded perspective into matters more eternal in nature.

How does Elder Hallstrom define a miracle?
What are some examples of miracles that go beyond physical healing?
Can you think of a time in your life when you experienced a miracle that wasn't a physical healing?
How can you develop a greater awareness of the spiritual miracles in your life?

Understand the Role of Faith in Miracles

Elder Hallstrom highlights the essential role of faith in experiencing miracles. He references scriptural accounts and teachings to illustrate that miracles occur after faith is exercised. He also discusses the importance of having faith in God's will, even if the desired miracle does not occur.

Moroni taught, "Neither at any time hath any wrought miracles until after their faith."

Ammon proclaimed, "God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles."

What role does faith play in the occurrence of miracles?
How did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego demonstrate their faith in God's will?
Do you have the faith to accept God's will, even if it means not receiving the miracle you desire?
How can you strengthen your faith to be more aligned with God's eternal plan?

Place Faith in God's Eternal Plan

Elder Hallstrom encourages us to focus our faith on God's plan and the Atonement of Jesus Christ rather than solely on the relief of our immediate suffering. He emphasizes that understanding and accepting God's will is crucial for our spiritual growth and eternal preparation.

A critical question to ponder is "Where do we place our faith?"

Faith in the Father and the Son allows us to understand and accept Their will as we prepare for eternity.

Why is it important to place our faith in God's eternal plan?
How does faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ help us understand and accept God's will?
In what ways can you shift your focus from immediate relief to trusting in God's eternal plan?
How has your faith in God's plan helped you through challenging times?

Recognize Everyday Spiritual Miracles

Elder Hallstrom reminds us that being a child of God, receiving a body in His image, the gift of a Savior, and the potential for eternal life are all profound miracles. He encourages us to recognize and be grateful for these everyday spiritual miracles that are available to all of God's children.

Being a child of God is a miracle. Receiving a body in His image and likeness is a miracle. The gift of a Savior is a miracle. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is a miracle. The potential for eternal life is a miracle.

What are some everyday spiritual miracles mentioned by Elder Hallstrom?
Why is it important to recognize these spiritual miracles in our lives?
How can you cultivate a greater sense of gratitude for the spiritual miracles in your life?
What steps can you take to remind yourself daily of the miracles of being a child of God and having the potential for eternal life?

Embrace the Eternal Perspective on Miracles

Elder Hallstrom emphasizes the importance of having an eternal perspective when it comes to understanding miracles. He teaches that while it is good to seek physical protection and healing, our supreme focus should be on the spiritual miracles that prepare us for eternity.

While it is good to pray for and work for physical protection and healing during our mortal existence, our supreme focus should be on the spiritual miracles that are available to all of God’s children.

Why is it important to have an eternal perspective on miracles?
How can focusing on spiritual miracles help us prepare for eternity?
How can you develop an eternal perspective in your daily life?
What are some ways you can shift your focus from temporary challenges to eternal blessings?