Study Guide for "Our Relationship with God"

In this talk, Elder D. Todd Christofferson explores the complexities of our relationship with God, especially during times of trials and tribulations. He emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, even when His plans do not align with our expectations or desires. Through various scriptural and personal accounts, Elder Christofferson illustrates the enduring love and guidance of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and the eternal blessings that come from trusting in Their wisdom and timing.

Before Reading

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

What does Elder Christofferson say about our expectations of God in times of suffering?
How does Elder Christofferson explain the nature of God's blessings?
What is the role of faith in our relationship with God, according to Elder Christofferson?
How does Elder Christofferson use the examples of Job, Abraham, and Joseph to illustrate his points?
What does Elder Christofferson mean when he says that our destiny is to be heirs with Christ?

Topics

Understanding God's Omnipotence and Omniscience

Elder Christofferson discusses the story of Job to highlight the omnipotence and omniscience of God. He emphasizes that we, as mortal beings, cannot fully comprehend God's plans and should not judge Him based on our limited understanding.

It truly is folly for us with our mortal myopia to presume to judge God, to think, for example, "I’m not happy, so God must be doing something wrong."

To us, His mortal children in a fallen world, who know so little of past, present, and future, He declares, "All things are present with me, for I know them all."

What does the story of Job teach us about God's omnipotence and omniscience?
Why is it important for us to remember our limited understanding when questioning God's actions or plans?
How can you apply the lesson from Job's story in your own life?
Can you recall a time when you questioned God's plans? How did you reconcile your doubts with your faith?

Recognizing the Nature of God's Blessings

Elder Christofferson points out the misconception that obedience to God guarantees specific outcomes according to our expectations. He explains that blessings from God are not mechanical or transactional, and that God's blessings, both temporal and spiritual, are managed according to His divine wisdom and timing.

We ought not to think of God’s plan as a cosmic vending machine where we (1) select a desired blessing, (2) insert the required sum of good works, and (3) the order is promptly delivered.

We do our best but must leave to Him the management of blessings, both temporal and spiritual.

What does Elder Christofferson mean when he says that God's blessings are not mechanical or transactional?
How should we view our obedience to God in relation to the blessings we receive?
How can you adjust your expectations of God's blessings in your life?
Can you recall a time when a blessing from God came in an unexpected way or time? How did that experience strengthen your faith?

Embracing Faith and Trust in God

Elder Christofferson emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God, regardless of our circumstances. He shares several examples of faithful individuals, including Abraham, Joseph, and Sister Patricia Parkinson, who trusted in God's plan even in the midst of trials.

In the end, it is the blessing of a close and abiding relationship with the Father and the Son that we seek. It makes all the difference and is everlastingly worth the cost.

I bear witness that no matter what our mortal experience may entail, we can trust God and find joy in Him.

What do the examples of Abraham, Joseph, and Sister Patricia Parkinson teach us about faith and trust in God?
Why is it important to maintain faith and trust in God, even in difficult circumstances?
How can you strengthen your faith and trust in God?
Can you recall a time when your faith and trust in God helped you through a difficult situation? How did that experience impact your relationship with God?

Recognizing Our Divine Heritage and Potential

Elder Christofferson discusses our divine heritage as children of God and our potential to become joint-heirs with Christ. He emphasizes that God's covenant path is tailored to our individual needs and leads to our ultimate happiness with Him.

We are God’s children, set apart for immortality and eternal life. Our destiny is to be His heirs, "joint-heirs with Christ."

Our Father is willing to guide each of us along His covenant path with steps designed to our individual need and tailored to His plan for our ultimate happiness with Him.

What does it mean to be a "joint-heir with Christ"?
How does understanding our divine heritage and potential influence our relationship with God?
How can you better align your life with God's covenant path?
How does understanding your divine heritage and potential influence your daily decisions and actions?

Enduring Trials with Faith and Trust

Elder Christofferson discusses the refining process that comes with trials and tribulations. He encourages us to draw closer to God during these times and to trust in His promises, even when the process is painful.

The process of God-directed purging and purifying will, of necessity, be wrenching and painful at times.

So, in the midst of this refiner’s fire, rather than get angry with God, get close to God.

Why does Elder Christofferson say that trials are necessary for our spiritual growth?
How can we draw closer to God during times of trials?
How can you better endure trials with faith and trust in God?
Can you recall a time when a trial helped you draw closer to God? How did that experience strengthen your faith?