Lesson Prepration Guide for "Trusting Our Father"

In his General Conference talk, "Trusting Our Father," Elder David P. Homer of the Seventy shares the inspiring journey of Louisa Barnes Pratt, who trusted in divine guidance during challenging times. Through her story and other teachings, Elder Homer emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s eternal truths, choosing faith over doubt, and submitting our will to His. He invites us to deepen our relationship with our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, who know our challenges and are always ready to support us.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin with a brief story about a time you had to trust in something or someone despite uncertainty. Ask class members to share similar experiences.
Start with a hymn or song that focuses on trust in God, such as "I Need Thee Every Hour" or "Trust in the Lord." Discuss the feelings and thoughts the song evokes.
Share a short video or clip from a church resource that emphasizes trusting in God, then invite reflections from the class.
Pose a question to the class: "What does it mean to truly trust God?" Allow a few minutes for discussion before diving into the talk.
Read the story of Louisa Pratt from the talk and discuss initial reactions and thoughts about her journey and faith.

Topics

Trust in Divine Guidance

Elder Homer shared the story of Louisa Pratt, who trusted in divine guidance despite her personal reluctance. Her journey was difficult, yet through faith, she found joy and was able to see her circumstances differently.

“The gloom on my mind wore gradually away, and there was not a more mirthful woman in the whole company.”

How can we develop the courage to trust in God’s guidance like Louisa Pratt did?
What are some personal experiences where you felt prompted to trust in divine guidance?
How do you distinguish between your own desires and divine guidance?
What role do prophets and church leaders play in helping us trust in divine guidance?
How can we support others who are struggling to trust in God’s plan for them?

Recognize God's Boundaries of Truth

Elder Homer emphasized that God's boundaries of right and wrong are not for us to redefine. These eternal truths are established by God for our benefit, and deviating from them can lead to sorrow.

“God has established these boundaries Himself, based on eternal truths for our benefit and blessing.”

Why do you think some people find it difficult to accept God’s boundaries of truth?
How can we strengthen our understanding and acceptance of God’s eternal truths?
What are some examples of eternal truths that have blessed your life?
How can we lovingly help others understand and accept God’s truths?
What role does prayer play in seeking to understand God’s truths?

Choose Whom to Trust

Elder Homer discussed the importance of choosing whom to trust, highlighting that trusting in God and His prophets leads to spiritual clarity and blessings.

“Believe in God; believe that he is … ; believe that he has all wisdom … ; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.”

How do we decide whom to trust in our spiritual journey?
What experiences have helped you strengthen your trust in God?
How can we help others who struggle with trusting in God and His prophets?
What are the consequences of trusting in our own judgment over God’s?
How can we cultivate humility to trust in God’s wisdom over our own?

Look to the Savior for Strength

Elder Homer encouraged looking to the Savior when faced with doubts and challenges. Trusting in Christ can help us overcome pride and embrace eternal truths.

“Please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith.”

How can we strengthen our relationship with the Savior to overcome doubts?
What does it mean to "look unto [Him] in every thought"?
How can we support others who are struggling with doubts about their faith?
What role does humility play in looking to the Savior for strength?
How have you experienced the Savior’s strength in your life during challenging times?

Submit Our Will to God's

Elder Homer taught that submitting our will to God's is central to discipleship. It magnifies our agency and brings the presence of the Holy Ghost, which offers joy, peace, and hope.

“The submission of one’s will is really the only uniquely personal thing we have to place on God’s altar.”

What does it mean to submit our will to God?
How can submitting our will to God bring us peace and joy?
What challenges do you face in submitting your will to God?
How can we encourage others to submit their will to God?
What are the blessings that come from submitting our will to God?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we find joy in difficult circumstances as Louisa Pratt did?
What are some ways we can better align our personal views with God’s truths?
How can we practice trusting God in everyday decisions?
In what ways can pride hinder our spiritual growth?
How can we create a supportive environment for those returning to church?
Why is it important to question our doubts rather than our faith?
How can we increase our understanding of God’s eternal truths?
What role does the Holy Ghost play in guiding us to trust in God?
How can we recognize when our will is not aligned with God’s?
What steps can we take to strengthen our faith in times of uncertainty?