Not as the World Giveth
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What is the difference between the peace that Christ offers and the peace that the world offers?
- What are the principles of righteousness that Elder Holland discusses?
- How does Elder Holland suggest we can find peace in our lives?
- What role does the Atonement of Jesus Christ play in finding peace?
- What challenges does Elder Holland identify in the world today?
Topics
Understanding Christ's Peace
Elder Holland discusses the unique peace that Christ offers, which is unlike the peace that the world gives. This peace is not troubled or afraid, and is a reassurance amidst the challenges of mortality.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
- What characteristics distinguish Christ's peace from the peace of the world?
- How does Christ's peace provide reassurance in challenging times?
- How can you seek Christ's peace in your life?
- Can you recall a time when you felt Christ's peace amidst a challenging situation?
Recognizing the Challenges of the World
Elder Holland identifies various challenges in the world today, including conflict, anger, incivility, and a lack of faith, hope, and charity. He emphasizes that these challenges require solutions beyond what the world can offer.
We cannot afford—and this world cannot afford—our failure to put these gospel concepts and fortifying covenants to full use personally and publicly.
But many of these we are not strong enough to address in and of ourselves, for the help and peace we need is not the kind “the world giveth.”
- What challenges does Elder Holland identify in the world today?
- Why are these challenges beyond the solutions that the world can offer?
- What challenges in the world today resonate with you?
- How can the gospel help you to address these challenges?
Living by Principles of Righteousness
Elder Holland discusses the importance of living by principles of righteousness, including patience, long-suffering, gentleness, and love unfeigned. He warns of the consequences of neglecting these principles.
To access these powers we must live by what these same scriptures call “principles of righteousness.”
In the cold, uncaring confinement of Liberty Jail, he was taught that the principles of righteousness included such virtues as patience, long-suffering, gentleness, and love unfeigned.
- What principles of righteousness does Elder Holland discuss?
- Why are these principles important in our lives?
- How can you better live by these principles of righteousness?
- Can you recall a time when living by these principles made a difference in your life?
Applying the Atonement of Jesus Christ
Elder Holland emphasizes the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in providing peace and healing. He encourages members to apply the Atonement in their lives and in their interactions with others.
So, this Easter let’s try to practice peace in a personal way, applying the grace and healing balm of the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ to ourselves and our families and all those we can reach around us.
Its untold possibilities have already been paid for by the Prince of Peace, whom I love with all my heart, whose Church this is, and of whom I bear unequivocal witness, even the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.
- How does the Atonement of Jesus Christ provide peace and healing?
- What does it mean to apply the Atonement in our lives?
- How can you better apply the Atonement of Jesus Christ in your life?
- Can you recall a time when the Atonement brought peace and healing to you?
Promoting Peace and Love in Relationships
Elder Holland discusses the importance of promoting peace and love in our relationships, especially within families. He condemns any form of abuse or unrighteous dominion, and encourages members to be peacemakers.
Everyone has the right to be loved, to feel peaceful, and to find safety at home.
The promise of being a peacemaker is that you will have the Holy Ghost for your constant companion and blessings will flow to you “without compulsory means” forever.
- Why is it important to promote peace and love in our relationships?
- What does it mean to be a peacemaker?
- How can you promote peace and love in your relationships?
- Can you recall a time when you acted as a peacemaker?
