Lesson Prepration Guide for "The Wind Did Never Cease to Blow"

In his General Conference address, Elder Aroldo B. Cavalcante of the Seventy shares profound insights into the power of service and the eternal truth that no one is forgotten by the Lord. Through compelling stories and scriptural references, he illustrates how we can be like the wind that guided the Jaredites to the promised land, helping others progress on their spiritual journeys. Elder Cavalcante emphasizes the importance of serving others, recognizing the forgotten, and embracing our divine potential through missionary work and personal conversion.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Start with a short video or story about a forgotten individual who was helped, then relate it to the talk's theme of being "the wind" in others" lives.
Share a personal experience or ask a class member to share a time when they felt forgotten and how someone helped them feel valued.
Begin with a discussion on the importance of service and how small acts can have a big impact, tying it to Elder Cavalcante's examples.
Use a visual aid, like a map, to illustrate the journey of the Jaredites and discuss how we can be "winds" guiding others to their promised lands.
Pose a thought-provoking question about what it means to be "forgotten" and how we can recognize those who might feel this way in our communities.

Topics

Serve Others as Service to God

Elder Cavalcante shared how 62 members of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society served the elderly in Brazil, demonstrating King Benjamin's teaching that serving others is serving God. Their efforts led to legal action against those who had wronged the residents.

Their assistance is a perfect example of King Benjamin’s teaching "that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God."

How can we identify those in need of our service in our community?
What are some small ways we can serve others daily, even if they might seem insignificant?
How have you felt the blessings of serving others in your own life?
What lessons can we learn from the legal society's approach to service?
How does serving others help us feel closer to God?

Recognize the Forgotten Among Us

Elder Cavalcante recounted his experience with a brother in his ward who was initially overlooked due to his appearance. By recognizing his potential, Elder Cavalcante helped him become a dedicated leader in the Church.

And yet, years ago, he was an unknown sunglass-wearer sitting essentially forgotten in the pews of the chapel.

Why do you think some people are "forgotten" in our congregations?
How can we better recognize the potential in those around us?
What steps can we take to ensure everyone feels included and valued?
Have you ever felt overlooked, and how did someone help you feel seen?
What can we learn from Elder Cavalcante's decision to recommend the brother as a counselor?

Embrace Trials for Spiritual Growth

Elder Cavalcante emphasized that trials are inevitable but can be consecrated for our gain if we turn to the Savior. He encouraged us to help others through their trials, acting as the wind that guides them to the covenant path.

As we turn to the Savior, He can "consecrate [our] afflictions for [our] gain" and help us respond to our trials in a way that facilitates our spiritual progression.

How can trials be used as opportunities for growth?
What role does faith play in overcoming challenges?
How can we support others going through difficult times?
What personal experiences have strengthened your faith during trials?
How can we recognize the Lord's hand in our afflictions?

Answer the Call to Serve Missions

Elder Cavalcante reiterated President Nelson's call for young men to serve missions, emphasizing that missionary service is a priesthood responsibility. He encouraged youth to trust in the Lord's guidance, despite feelings of inadequacy.

I reaffirm strongly that the Lord has asked every worthy, able young man to prepare for and serve a mission.

What fears or concerns might young people have about serving missions?
How can we support prospective missionaries in their preparation?
What personal growth have you seen in those who have served missions?
Why is missionary service emphasized so strongly in the Church?
How can young women also benefit from serving missions?

Trust in the Lord's Guidance

Elder Cavalcante encouraged individuals to trust in the Lord's guidance, even when they feel inadequate. He shared examples from scripture of prophets who felt unprepared but were supported by the Lord.

And He promises, "Therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say."

What can we learn from the examples of Nephi, Jeremiah, and Moses?
How can we develop greater trust in the Lord's plan for us?
What experiences have strengthened your trust in the Lord?
How can we help others feel confident in their divine potential?
What steps can we take to better recognize the Lord's guidance in our lives?

Additional Discussion Questions

How can we be more aware of those who feel forgotten in our wards?
What are some practical ways to serve those in need around us?
How can we better support our missionaries in the field?
What role does prayer play in recognizing opportunities to serve?
How can we help each other see our divine potential?
What impact can small acts of kindness have on those who feel overlooked?
How can we apply the lessons from the Jaredites' journey to our own lives?
In what ways can we be 'the wind' in guiding others to Christ?
How can we ensure that everyone feels included in our church community?
What can we do to prepare ourselves spiritually for unexpected trials?