The Needs before Us
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What recent events have highlighted the need for service according to Sister Oscarson?
- How does Sister Oscarson suggest we can find purpose in our lives?
- What are some of the distractions that prevent us from serving those around us?
- How can small acts of service within our families and wards make a difference?
- What role does prayer play in recognizing opportunities to serve?
Topics
Focus on Immediate Needs Around Us
Sister Oscarson emphasizes the importance of serving those who are closest to us. She shares that while global disasters garner attention and inspire large-scale acts of service, we must not overlook the immediate needs of our family, friends, and community members.
What good does it do to save the world if we neglect the needs of those closest to us and those whom we love the most?
Heavenly Father may have placed those who need us closest to us, knowing that we are best suited to meet their needs.
- Why is it important to focus on the immediate needs of those around us?
- How can serving those close to us fulfill our gospel covenants?
- Who in my immediate circle needs my help right now?
- What small acts of service can I perform today to help those around me?
Service as the Essence of Living the Gospel
The talk highlights that service is fundamental to living the gospel of Jesus Christ. Sister Oscarson explains that losing oneself in service to others is essential for personal growth and fulfillment.
Unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives.
Those who lose themselves in service to others grow and flourish—and in effect save their lives.
- How does service help us grow and flourish?
- What does it mean to "lose oneself" in service?
- How can I incorporate more service into my daily routine?
- What are some ways I can help others while also fulfilling my personal responsibilities?
Overcoming Distractions to Serve
Sister Oscarson discusses how modern technology and social media can distract us from meaningful interactions and service. She encourages us to be vigilant in our use of personal devices to ensure they do not hinder our ability to serve.
We are often more concerned with how many followers and likes we have than with putting an arm around a friend and showing love, concern, and tangible interest.
If we are not vigilant in how we use our personal devices, we too can begin to turn inward and forget that the essence of living the gospel is service.
- What are some of the distractions that prevent us from serving others?
- How can we use technology in a way that supports rather than hinders our service?
- How can I limit my use of technology to ensure I am present for those around me?
- What are some ways I can use social media to uplift and serve others?
Serving Within Our Families
The talk emphasizes the importance of serving within our own families. Sister Oscarson shares examples of how small acts of service within the family can strengthen relationships and invite the Spirit into the home.
Serving others can begin at almost any age. … It need not be on a grand scale, and it is noblest within the family.
Changing the world begins with strengthening your own family.
- Why is family service considered the noblest form of service?
- How can serving family members strengthen relationships?
- What are some specific ways I can serve my family members today?
- How has serving my family in the past brought us closer together?
Serving in Our Ward Families
Sister Oscarson encourages members to look for opportunities to serve within their ward families. She explains that attending church meetings is not just about what we receive but also about what we can give to others.
You have something important to contribute to every meeting or activity, and the Lord desires for you to look around at your peers and then minister as He would.
We are not just receivers and takers of what is offered at church; we are needed to be givers and suppliers.
- What is the importance of serving within our ward families?
- How can we contribute to our church meetings and activities?
- Who in my ward needs my help or friendship?
- What are some ways I can be more proactive in serving during church meetings?
