Lesson Prepration Guide for "His Hand Ready to Help Us"

Elder Juan Pablo Villar shares a personal childhood experience to illustrate the power and readiness of the Savior to help us in our times of need. Through a story about being rescued by his brother from the waves of the ocean, Elder Villar draws parallels to how Jesus Christ is always ready to reach out and lift us from our trials. He invites us to "think celestial" and recognize the Savior's constant presence and willingness to aid us, emphasizing the importance of faith and the Savior's ministering example.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin with a personal story of a time you felt overwhelmed and how you found help, similar to Elder Villar's experience with the waves.
Show a short video clip or image of a stormy sea and ask the class to reflect on how life can feel like turbulent waters.
Ask class members to think of a time when someone reached out to help them in a moment of need and how that impacted their lives.
Start with a hymn or song that speaks about the Savior's love and rescue, such as "Master, the Tempest is Raging."
Invite a class member to share a brief testimony of how they have seen the Savior's hand in their life.

Topics

Recognize the Savior’s Power over Adversity

Elder Villar emphasized that the Savior has power over all adversities we face, similar to how He has power over the waves. By reaching out to Him in faith, we can be rescued from any situation.

He has the power to help us out of every miserable condition or adverse situation.

How have you experienced the Savior's power in overcoming challenges in your life?
What does it mean to you to "think celestial" in the face of adversity?
How can we strengthen our faith to reach out to the Savior during difficult times?
In what ways can we remind ourselves of the Savior's power daily?
How can we help others recognize the Savior’s power in their lives?

Emulate the Savior’s Ministering Example

Elder Villar highlighted the importance of following the Savior's example in ministering to others. This involves more than just being present; it requires discernment and action to meet the needs of those around us.

Having an eternal perspective can help us receive revelation to offer timely assistance to others in need.

What are some ways we can minister more effectively to those in need?
How can we develop the ability to discern the specific needs of others?
Share a time when someone ministered to you in a meaningful way.
Why is it important to have an eternal perspective in our ministering efforts?
How can we involve the Holy Ghost in our efforts to minister to others?

Trust in the Savior’s Readiness to Rescue

Elder Villar reminded us that the Savior is always ready to rescue us, as demonstrated in the story of Peter walking on water. His readiness to save is a testament to His role as our Redeemer.

Jesus "immediately … stretched forth his hand, and caught him."

How can we develop greater trust in the Savior’s readiness to help us?
What lessons can we learn from Peter's experience with the Savior?
How does knowing the Savior is ready to rescue us bring peace into our lives?
What steps can we take to more readily recognize the Savior's hand in our lives?
In what ways can we help others see that the Savior is ready to help them?

Persevere with the Savior’s Support

Elder Villar shared that the Savior, like his brother Claudio, does not give up on us. He is persistent in helping us learn, change, and overcome challenges.

Our Savior will be there as many times as necessary to provide help.

How does knowing the Savior does not give up on us encourage you?
In what ways can we show persistence in our spiritual growth?
How can we support others in their journey of learning and overcoming?
What role does patience play in receiving the Savior’s help?
Share a time when the Savior’s support helped you persevere through a challenge.

Reflect on the Symbolism of the Savior’s Hands

Elder Villar spoke about the significance of the Savior’s hands, which were pierced for our sake. His hands symbolize His eternal willingness to help and save us.

His hand will always be there for us, even if we cannot see it or feel it at first.

What does the symbolism of the Savior’s hands mean to you personally?
How can we remember the significance of the Savior’s sacrifice in our daily lives?
In what ways can we extend our hands to help others, following the Savior’s example?
Why is it important to remember that the Savior’s help is always available?
How can we use the knowledge of the Savior’s sacrifice to inspire our actions?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we apply the principle of 'thinking celestial' in our daily decisions?
What are some practical ways to reach out to the Savior in times of need?
How does the story of Elder Villar’s brother Claudio inspire you to help others?
In what ways can we cultivate a deeper relationship with the Savior?
How can the example of the Savior’s ministering influence our relationships with family and friends?
What role does prayer play in seeking the Savior’s help and guidance?
How can we better recognize when others are in need of our help?
What does it mean to you to have the Savior as your Advocate with the Father?
How can we prepare ourselves to receive revelation for ministering to others?
What are some ways to strengthen our faith when we feel like we are 'sinking'?