Value beyond Measure
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What experiences led Mariama from Sierra Leone to discover her divine worth?
- How did learning about her divine nature impact Renu from India?
- What role does the Holy Ghost play in confirming our divine worth?
- How does Joy D. Jones differentiate between "worth" and "worthiness"?
- What did President Spencer W. Kimball and President Brigham Young teach about our individual worth?
- How can we overcome negative thoughts and feelings about ourselves according to this talk?
- What is the relationship between our worth and the Savior's atoning sacrifice?
Topics
Discovering Divine Worth through the Gospel
Joy D. Jones shares the stories of Mariama from Sierra Leone and Renu from India, who both discovered their divine worth through the teachings of the gospel. Their experiences illustrate how understanding our identity as children of God can transform our lives.
Mariama testified that she was like a moth attracted to the light. She said, "When I found the gospel, I found myself."
Renu shared, "When I learned the gospel and learned that I was a daughter of our Heavenly Father, it changed me."
- What led Mariama to feel a sense of divine worth?
- How did Renu's understanding of her divine nature change her perspective on life?
- Reflect on a time when learning a gospel principle helped you understand your worth.
- How can you help others discover their divine worth through the gospel?
The Role of the Holy Ghost in Confirming Our Worth
The Holy Ghost plays a crucial role in confirming our divine worth. Joy D. Jones emphasizes that the Spirit can individually affirm our value as children of God, guiding us in our daily service and helping us face life's challenges with confidence.
The Spirit will confirm to each of us individually our divine worth.
Knowing she was a daughter of God gave her peace and courage to face her overwhelming trial in the positive way she did.
- What role does the Holy Ghost play in confirming our divine worth?
- How did the Holy Ghost help Taiana face her trials with courage?
- How can you seek the Holy Ghost's confirmation of your worth?
- In what ways can you recognize the Spirit's presence in your daily life?
Differentiating between Worth and Worthiness
Joy D. Jones clarifies the distinction between worth and worthiness. Our worth is inherent and determined by God, while worthiness is achieved through obedience. Despite our sins, our worth remains intact in the eyes of Heavenly Father.
Spiritual worth means to value ourselves the way Heavenly Father values us, not as the world values us.
If we sin, we are less worthy, but we are never worth less!
- What is the difference between worth and worthiness?
- How does understanding this distinction affect our view of ourselves?
- Reflect on a time when you felt less worthy. How did you regain your sense of worth?
- How can you help others understand their worth despite their mistakes?
Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Feelings
Joy D. Jones addresses the challenge of overcoming negative thoughts and feelings about ourselves. She highlights the importance of virtuous thoughts and avoiding comparisons, which can lead to confidence and a stronger sense of divine worth.
Thinking small about ourselves does not serve us well. Instead, it holds us back.
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.
- Why is it important to avoid comparing ourselves to others?
- How can virtuous thoughts influence our confidence and self-worth?
- What strategies can you use to overcome negative thoughts about yourself?
- How can you cultivate virtuous thoughts in your daily life?
Recognizing Our Worth through the Savior's Atonement
Joy D. Jones explains the profound connection between our worth and the Savior's atoning sacrifice. Understanding that the Savior suffered for us individually helps us recognize our great worth in the sight of God.
Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God;
If the love we feel for the Savior and what He did for us is greater than the energy we give to weaknesses, self-doubts, or bad habits, then He will help us overcome the things which cause suffering in our lives.
- How does the Savior's atoning sacrifice demonstrate our worth?
- What did King Benjamin teach about the Savior's suffering?
- Reflect on how the Savior's atonement has helped you recognize your worth.
- How can you deepen your appreciation for the Savior's sacrifice in your daily life?
