Study Guide for "Be Not Troubled"

In his General Conference talk, "Be Not Troubled," Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addresses the pervasive issue of fear and how it affects the lives of Latter-day Saints. Drawing from scriptural accounts, prophetic counsel, and personal experiences, Elder Rasband provides guidance on how to overcome fear by standing in holy places, trusting in the Lord, and relying on personal revelation. His message is one of faith, courage, and the assurance that the promises of the Lord will be fulfilled.

Before Reading

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

What are some common fears that people experience in today's world?
How does Elder Rasband suggest we can overcome these fears?
What role do holy places play in dispelling fear according to Elder Rasband?
What promises does the Lord give us to help us not be troubled?

Topics

Recognize and Understand Common Fears

Elder Rasband acknowledges the various fears that people experience, from personal anxieties to natural disasters. He emphasizes that fear is not a new phenomenon and has been a part of human experience since ancient times.

Fear is not new. The disciples of Jesus Christ, out on the Sea of Galilee, feared the "wind, and the waves" in the dark of the night.

We fear failure, rejection, disappointment, and the unknown. We fear hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires that ravage the land and our lives.

What are some of the fears mentioned by Elder Rasband?
How does the account of Elisha in 2 Kings relate to our own fears?
What are some fears you currently face, and how do they affect your daily life?
How can you apply the story of Elisha and his servant to your own situations of fear?

Stand in Holy Places

Elder Rasband explains the importance of standing in holy places such as homes, chapels, and temples. These places provide spiritual strength, answers to troubling questions, and the peace of the Lord.

When we stand in holy places—our righteous homes, our dedicated chapels, the consecrated temples—we feel the Spirit of the Lord with us.

There is no room for fear in these holy places of God or in the hearts of His children. Why? Because of love. God loves us—always—and we love Him.

What are some examples of holy places mentioned by Elder Rasband?
How does standing in holy places help dispel fear?
What are your personal holy places where you feel the Spirit of the Lord?
How can you create more holy places in your daily life to help combat fear?

Trust in the Lord and His Promises

Elder Rasband emphasizes the importance of trusting in the Lord and His promises. He reassures that the promises made by the Lord will be fulfilled, and that this trust can help us not be troubled by the challenges of the world.

The Lord has revealed: "For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day."

I know that all His promises will be fulfilled. I know it as firmly as I stand here before you in this sacred meeting.

What does Elder Rasband say about the fulfillment of the Lord's promises?
How can trusting in the Lord help us not be troubled?
What are some promises from the Lord that you hold onto during difficult times?
How can you strengthen your trust in the Lord and His promises?

Seek Personal Revelation

Elder Rasband highlights the necessity of seeking personal revelation to navigate the complexities of life and to stay spiritually strong. He quotes President Nelson on the importance of the Holy Ghost's guidance in the coming days.

President Nelson has cautioned, "In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost."

To receive personal revelation, we must place priority on living the gospel and encouraging faithfulness and spirituality in others as well as ourselves.

What did President Nelson say about the importance of the Holy Ghost?
How does Elder Rasband suggest we can receive personal revelation?
How do you currently seek personal revelation in your life?
What changes can you make to better prioritize living the gospel and encouraging faithfulness?

Overcome Fear Through Love and Faith

Elder Rasband teaches that love and faith in Jesus Christ can dispel fear. He encourages members to focus on their love for God and His gospel to push fear aside and gain an eternal perspective.

Our love for Him and His gospel dispels fear.

Our desire to "always have his Spirit" with us will push fear aside for a more eternal view of our mortal lives.

How does Elder Rasband describe the relationship between love, faith, and fear?
What does it mean to have an eternal perspective on our mortal lives?
In what ways can you increase your love for God and His gospel?
How can you develop a more eternal perspective to help overcome your fears?