Study Guide for "My Mind Caught Hold upon This Thought of Jesus Christ"

In his talk, Elder Neil L. Andersen emphasizes the importance of firmly holding onto the thought of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. He uses the story of Alma from the Book of Mormon to illustrate the life-changing power of this thought. Furthermore, he encourages members to consciously shape, strengthen, and secure this thought in their minds and to allow it to guide their thoughts and actions. Elder Andersen also shares a touching personal story to demonstrate the comfort and peace that can come from focusing on the Savior, especially during times of great sorrow and grief.

Before Reading

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

What does it mean to "catch hold upon the thought of Jesus Christ"?
How can focusing on Christ impact our daily lives?
What practices can help us keep our thoughts centered on Christ?
How can the thought of Christ provide comfort during times of sorrow and grief?
What promises does Elder Andersen make to those who focus their lives more fully on the Savior?

Topics

Understanding Alma's Conversion and Applying It to Our Lives

Elder Andersen uses the story of Alma's conversion to illustrate the power of focusing on the thought of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice. Alma's life was transformed when his mind "caught hold" of this thought, leading him to repent and find hope and joy in the Savior.

In his deep despair, he remembered being taught in his youth about “the coming of one Jesus Christ, a Son of God, to atone for the sins of the world.”

“As my mind caught hold upon this thought, I cried within my heart: O Jesus, thou Son of God, have mercy on me.”

“When I thought this,” he said, “I could remember my pains no more.” Suddenly he felt peace and light. “Nothing [was] so exquisite and sweet as was my joy,” he declared.

What led to Alma's conversion?
How did the thought of Jesus Christ change Alma's life?
What can we learn from Alma's experience?
How can you apply Alma's experience to your own life?
What can you do to "catch hold" of the thought of Jesus Christ?
How has the thought of Christ helped you in your life?

Securing the Thought of Jesus Christ in Our Minds

Elder Andersen emphasizes the importance of consciously shaping, strengthening, and securing the thought of Jesus Christ in our minds. He explains that this does not mean that Christ is the only thought we have, but rather that all our thoughts are circumscribed in His love and teachings.

My prayer at this Easter season is that we will more consciously shape, strengthen, and secure this preeminent thought of Jesus Christ in the chambers of our soul, allowing it to eagerly flow into our mind, guide us in what we think and do, and continually bring the sweet joy of the Savior’s love.

Jesus is never in a forgotten corner, because our thoughts of Him are always present and “all that is in [us adores] him!”

What does it mean to secure the thought of Jesus Christ in our minds?
How can this thought guide our actions and bring us joy?
How can you more consciously shape, strengthen, and secure the thought of Jesus Christ in your mind?
What practices can help you keep your thoughts centered on Christ?

Giving Our Mind and Spirit Exceptional Attention

Elder Andersen stresses the need for exceptional attention to our mind and spirit in this mortal life. He highlights the importance of focusing our attention on Jesus Christ and removing distractions that are not in keeping with His light and character.

In this mortal life, our mind and spirit need exceptional attention.

By focusing our attention on Jesus Christ, all else around us—while still present—is viewed through our love for Him.

As you continue to attentively catch hold of this thought of Jesus Christ, trust in Him, and keep His commandments, I promise you not only heavenly guidance but heavenly power—power that brings strength to your covenants, peace to your difficulties, and joy to your blessings.

Why is it important to give our mind and spirit exceptional attention?
How does focusing our attention on Christ affect our perception of the world around us?
What can you do to give your mind and spirit more exceptional attention?
How can you focus your attention more on Christ?

Remembering Jesus Christ During Times of Sorrow and Grief

Elder Andersen shares a personal story to illustrate the comfort and peace that can come from focusing on the Savior during times of great sorrow and grief. He emphasizes the importance of remembering Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation during such times.

Matt’s mind caught hold upon this thought: “The Savior lives. There is no place we would rather be as a family than in His holy house.”

While I feel deep sorrow and grief, I am shouting for joy, knowing my Father’s wonderful plan of salvation.

How did the thought of Jesus Christ provide comfort to Matt and his daughters during their time of grief?
How can remembering Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation bring us joy during times of sorrow?
How can you apply Matt's experience to your own life?
How can the thought of Jesus Christ provide comfort during your times of sorrow and grief?
What can you do to remember Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation during such times?