Lesson Prepration Guide for "Cherishing Life"

In his profound and heartfelt talk, Elder Neil L. Andersen, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, addresses the sacredness of life and the importance of cherishing and protecting it. He shares stories of individuals who have faced difficult decisions regarding unanticipated pregnancies and highlights the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life. Elder Andersen emphasizes the role of love, faith, and support from the Church community in helping individuals navigate these challenging situations, ultimately underscoring the eternal significance of each life in God's plan.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin with a personal story or testimony about the sanctity of life and how it has influenced your decisions or perspective.
Share a short video or excerpt from previous General Conferences that discuss the importance of life and choice.
Ask class members to reflect on a time when they felt the love of their ward family, similar to the story shared in the talk.
Present a scenario involving a difficult choice related to life and family, and invite initial thoughts from the class.
Start with a hymn or song that emphasizes love, life, or discipleship, setting a contemplative tone for the lesson.

Topics

Express Love and Support to Those in Need

Elder Andersen shared a story about a young woman who received immense love and support from her ward family during a difficult time. This love and support helped her and her family return to the Church and embrace the gospel.

I have received so much love and support from our ward family. It has been overwhelming.

How can we as a ward or community better support those in need?
What are some ways we can show love and kindness to others?
Why is it important for us to express love and support to those facing difficult decisions?
How has receiving love and support from others impacted your life?
What role does the Church play in providing a support system for its members?

Help Others Make Righteous Choices

Elder Andersen emphasized the importance of helping others make righteous choices by offering spiritual, emotional, and financial support. He stressed that life is a precious part of God's plan, and we should cherish and preserve it.

Our words, our hands, our hearts—spiritually, emotionally, and financially—can bless them to feel the Savior’s love.

How can we assist others in making righteous choices?
What are some challenges people face when making difficult decisions about life and family?
Why is it important to offer support during these times?
How can we better understand and empathize with those facing difficult choices?
What personal experiences have you had with helping others make righteous decisions?

Understand the Doctrine of Mortal Life

Elder Andersen reiterated the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life and the doctrine surrounding mortal birth. He highlighted the Church's stance on abortion and the importance of prayer and counsel in making such decisions.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes in the sanctity of human life.

What is the Church's stance on the sanctity of life and abortion?
How can we better understand the doctrine of mortal life?
Why is it important to seek divine guidance in making decisions about life?
How can we support those who are making decisions about life and family?
What role does prayer and counsel play in the decision-making process?

Speak Openly About the Sanctity of Life

Elder Andersen encouraged open discussions about the Lord’s law of chastity, the sanctity of life, and the care of the unborn. He emphasized the importance of speaking with faith and compassion, especially to the youth.

Let us speak more often with faith and compassion to our youth.

How can we create an environment where discussions about life and chastity are open and honest?
Why is it important to speak openly about these topics?
How can we ensure that our youth feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics?
What challenges do we face when discussing the sanctity of life?
How can we use compassion and faith in these conversations?

Demonstrate Faith and Courage in Difficult Times

Elder Andersen shared stories of individuals who demonstrated faith and courage in the face of difficult decisions regarding life and family. He highlighted the importance of trusting in God's plan and finding strength through the Savior.

Undaunted faith and remarkable courage are hallmarks of disciples of Jesus Christ.

What examples of faith and courage have inspired you in your own life?
How can we develop faith and courage in the face of difficult decisions?
Why is it important to trust in God’s plan during challenging times?
How can the Savior provide strength and comfort during trials?
What role does prayer and scripture study play in developing faith and courage?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does it mean to cherish life as a disciple of Jesus Christ?
How can we better support families in our ward facing unexpected challenges?
In what ways can we show love and compassion to those who have experienced regret or pain from past decisions?
Why is it important to have open discussions about sensitive topics in the Church?
How can we teach our youth about the importance of the sanctity of life?
What are some ways we can demonstrate our commitment to the Lord’s teachings on life and choice?
How can we strengthen our own testimonies of the sanctity of life?
What role does the Church play in guiding members through difficult decisions?
How can we balance compassion and adherence to Church teachings when supporting others?
What personal experiences have you had that have strengthened your understanding of the sanctity of life?