Study Guide for "Is the Plan Working?"

In this talk, Elder Adrián Ochoa addresses those who may feel that the Plan of Happiness is not working in their lives. He uses the story of Peter walking on water to illustrate three principles that can help us when we feel that our faith is faltering or life is not unfolding as we had hoped. He encourages us to act in faith, turn to Jesus Christ in times of trouble, and to humble ourselves before the Lord.

Before Reading

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

What three principles does Elder Ochoa learn from Peter's experience of walking on the water?
How does Elder Ochoa suggest we can keep faith when life doesn't unfold as we hoped?
What does it mean to come unto Christ according to Elder Ochoa?
What does Elder Ochoa say about the importance of repentance in our lives?
How does humility play a role in our spiritual growth according to Elder Ochoa?

Topics

Acting in Faith in Jesus Christ

Elder Ochoa points out Peter's act of faith in stepping out of the boat to walk on water as an example for us. He encourages us to act in faith, even in stressful situations, and to trust in Jesus Christ more than we trust in our own abilities or circumstances.

Peter trusted the Savior more than he trusted his boat. And that faith gave him power to act with courage during a stressful, frightening situation.

Faith in the Savior brings peace and the strength to move forward.

Do not minimize the faith you already have.

What does it mean to act in faith in Jesus Christ?
How did Peter demonstrate his faith in the Savior?
How can faith in Jesus Christ bring peace and strength?
How have you demonstrated faith in Jesus Christ in your life?
What situations in your life require you to act in faith?
How can you strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ?

Turning to Jesus Christ in Times of Trouble

Elder Ochoa emphasizes the importance of turning to Jesus Christ when we face challenges. He explains that the Plan of Happiness is also the Plan of Redemption, and that struggles are a part of our mortal journey. He encourages us to reach out to the Savior in times of trouble and to repent without delay.

When we struggle—for any reason—that does not mean the plan isn’t working. That is when we need the plan the most!

In those moments, follow the example of Peter. Turn to the Savior right away.

No matter where we are and where we have been, repentance is the way forward.

Why is it important to turn to Jesus Christ in times of trouble?
How does repentance play a role in turning to Christ?
What does it mean to say that the Plan of Happiness is also the Plan of Redemption?
How have you turned to Jesus Christ in times of trouble?
What steps can you take to repent and turn to Christ more fully?
How have you experienced the Plan of Redemption in your life?

Humbling Ourselves Before the Lord

Elder Ochoa talks about the importance of humility in our spiritual growth. He suggests that when we humble ourselves before the Lord, He can lift us up and help us accomplish great things in His service. He encourages us to seek opportunities to serve and minister to others.

Humble yourself before the Lord, and He will lift you up to greater things.

Peter could have resented this rebuke. But he accepted it humbly.

Never will the plan of happiness become more real to you than when you are helping others to live it.

Why is humility important for our spiritual growth?
How does humility help us to accomplish great things in the Lord's service?
What does it mean to humble ourselves before the Lord?
How have you demonstrated humility in your life?
What opportunities do you have to serve and minister to others?
How can you humble yourself before the Lord?