Ladder of Faith
Contents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- How does Elder Kacher define the "ladder of faith"?
- What role does choice play in our faith journey according to Elder Kacher?
- How can adversity affect our faith according to Elder Kacher?
- What are the benefits of aligning our will with God's will as discussed by Elder Kacher?
- What does Elder Kacher suggest are the steps to increasing our faith in Jesus Christ?
Topics
Understanding the Ladder of Faith
Elder Kacher introduces the concept of the "ladder of faith", illustrating that faith is not static and can increase or decrease based on our choices. He emphasizes that faith is a journey, not a destination, and that we must actively work to climb this ladder.
Part of life’s purpose is to allow these potential stumbling blocks to become stepping-stones as we climb what I call the “ladder of faith”—a ladder because it suggests that faith is not static. It can go up or down according to the choices we make.
- What is the "ladder of faith" as described by Elder Kacher?
- How does Elder Kacher suggest we can climb this ladder?
- How can you apply the concept of the "ladder of faith" in your own life?
- What steps can you take to climb your own "ladder of faith"?
Accepting God's Will
Elder Kacher discusses the importance of accepting God's will in our lives. He shares personal experiences to illustrate how accepting God's will can bring peace and joy, even in the face of adversity.
As we accept the Lord’s will, He teaches us how to walk with Him.
Accepting His will in place of our own is key to finding joy no matter our circumstances.
- Why is it important to accept God's will according to Elder Kacher?
- How can accepting God's will bring joy and peace?
- How can you better accept God's will in your life?
- Can you recall a time when accepting God's will brought you peace or joy?
Increasing Faith through Obedience and Trust
Elder Kacher teaches that obedience and trust in God are key to increasing our faith. He explains that obedience can enable us to be trusted by God and that this trust can increase our spiritual light, guiding us on our journey of faith.
We recognize that obedience and faith in the Savior qualify us to have His Spirit always to be with us. Obedience is no longer an irritant but becomes a quest.
We recognize that obedience to God’s commands enables us to be trusted of Him. With His trust comes increased light.
- How do obedience and trust relate to faith according to Elder Kacher?
- What are the benefits of obedience and trust in God?
- How can you increase your obedience and trust in God?
- Can you recall a time when your obedience or trust in God increased your faith?
Aligning Our Will with God's Will
Elder Kacher emphasizes the importance of aligning our will with God's will. He suggests that this alignment can lead to increased faith and happiness. Elder Kacher also shares a personal experience to illustrate the power of aligning our will with God's will.
Our progression is an eternal one.
Like the Savior, we want to act “not as I will, but as thou wilt.” We want to do God’s work and be an instrument in His hands.
Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught: “Only by aligning our wills with God’s is full happiness to be found. Anything less results in a lesser portion.”
- Why is it important to align our will with God's will according to Elder Kacher?
- What are the benefits of aligning our will with God's will?
- How can you better align your will with God's will?
- Can you recall a time when aligning your will with God's will increased your faith or happiness?
Faith and Adversity
Elder Kacher discusses the relationship between faith and adversity. He shares personal experiences to illustrate how adversity can either strengthen or weaken our faith, depending on our choices. Elder Kacher emphasizes that faith can guide us through life's challenges and bring us closer to God.
The road through their afflictions has been long and painful, but from somewhere came the spiritual reserves to not lose hope but to “hold on [their] way.”
Though the pain and loss would not and could not leave completely, Carolyn and Doug have been comforted by the assurance that by their staying firmly on the covenant path, their beloved Jennie would be theirs forever.
- How can adversity affect our faith according to Elder Kacher?
- What role does choice play in how adversity affects our faith?
- How has adversity affected your faith in the past?
- How can you use your faith to navigate future adversities?