Study Guide for "Faith to Act and Become"

In his talk, Elder Ciro Schmeil explores the concept of personal growth and development as disciples of Jesus Christ. He shares a personal encounter with President Russell M. Nelson, who told him that he was called for what he could become. This statement leads Elder Schmeil to reflect on the process of becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ, which involves asking, acting, studying, and acting to become. He supports his insights with scriptures and personal experiences.

Before Reading

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

What counsel did President Nelson give to Elder Schmeil about his calling?
What are the key steps Elder Schmeil identifies for becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ?
How does Elder Schmeil relate the story of Nephi and the brass plates to the process of becoming?
What role does studying the scriptures play in our journey to become better disciples of Christ?
How does Elder Schmeil describe the process of "acting to become"?

Topics

Understanding the Call to Become

Elder Schmeil starts his talk with a personal encounter with President Nelson, who told him that he was called for what he could become. This leads Elder Schmeil to reflect on the process of becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ.

“Elder Schmeil, you are called for what you can become.”

As I thought about this, I realized that He wants me to become a better husband, father, and son and a better servant.

What did President Nelson mean when he said, "You are called for what you can become"?
How does this counsel apply to all disciples of Jesus Christ?
How can you apply President Nelson's counsel in your own life?
What do you feel the Lord wants you to become?

Asking in Faith

Elder Schmeil emphasizes the importance of asking through prayer as a key to becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ. He uses the example of the Nephites who were visited by Jesus Christ because they were praying.

Asking through prayer is one of the keys to knowing how to become a better disciple of Jesus Christ.

We need to ask in faith to know the will of the Lord and accept that the Lord knows what is better for us.

Why is asking through prayer important in becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ?
How does the Lord respond when we ask in faith?
What can you do to improve your communication with Heavenly Father through prayer?
How have you seen the Lord's guidance in your life when you have asked in faith?

Acting on Faith

Elder Schmeil discusses the importance of action in becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ. He uses the story of Nephi retrieving the brass plates to illustrate how the Lord guides and directs us as we act in faith.

Acting is another essential key to becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ.

This is how the Lord works as we put forth effort and act, even when we do not have a clear understanding of what needs to be done.

Why is action essential in becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ?
How does the Lord guide us as we act in faith?
What actions can you take today to become a better disciple of Jesus Christ?
How have you seen the Lord's guidance in your life as you have acted in faith?

Studying the Scriptures

Elder Schmeil emphasizes the importance of studying the scriptures as a key to becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ. He refers to the Savior's teaching to the Nephites about reading and teaching from the scriptures.

Studying is then another essential key to becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ.

Prayer and scripture study go hand in hand. They work together for our benefit.

Why is studying the scriptures important in becoming a better disciple of Jesus Christ?
How do prayer and scripture study work together for our benefit?
How can you improve your scripture study habits?
What insights have you gained from the scriptures that have helped you become a better disciple of Christ?

Acting to Become

Elder Schmeil discusses the concept of "acting to become", emphasizing that answers to prayer may not come immediately, but we must persist in faith. He shares personal experiences and quotes from Elder Richard G. Scott to illustrate this principle.

Many times answers to prayer will not come right away. But we must have faith to continue, act in righteousness, and be persistent.

Elder Richard G. Scott said: “Be thankful that sometimes God lets you struggle for a long time before that answer comes. That causes your faith to increase and your character to grow.”

What does Elder Schmeil mean by "acting to become"?
Why is it important to persist in faith even when answers to prayers do not come immediately?
How can you apply the principle of "acting to become" in your life?
Can you recall a time when you had to persist in faith before receiving an answer to prayer?