Study 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.

Before Reading

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

What does Elder Andersen say about the role of love in being disciples of Jesus Christ?
How does Elder Andersen describe the Church's stance on abortion?
What examples does Elder Andersen provide to illustrate the sanctity of life?
How can Church members support those facing unanticipated pregnancies?
What does Elder Andersen emphasize about the eternal nature of life?

Topics

Demonstrate Love as Disciples of Christ

Elder Andersen shares a touching story of a young woman who felt immense love from her ward family during a difficult time. This love and support exemplified the Savior's teaching that His disciples are known by their love for one another. The ward's actions reflect the Church's commitment to ministering to individuals with kindness and compassion.

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

A ward such as mine is the family everyone needs, especially a young woman in my position.

How does Elder Andersen illustrate the importance of love in discipleship?
What role did the ward family play in supporting the young woman in the story?
How can you show love and support to someone in your community who is facing a difficult situation?
Reflect on a time when you felt the love of your ward family. How did it impact you?

Support Righteous Choices

Elder Andersen discusses the challenges faced by individuals dealing with unanticipated pregnancies and emphasizes the importance of supporting them in making righteous choices. He highlights the power of the Savior's atoning grace in healing past regrets and stresses the Church's teachings on cherishing life and moral agency.

Although we cannot change the past, God can heal the past.

Life is a most precious part of our Father’s perfect plan, and by His decree we cherish and preserve life.

What does Elder Andersen say about the role of agency in making righteous choices?
How can God's atoning grace help those who regret past decisions?
Consider a decision you are facing. How can you seek divine guidance to make a righteous choice?
Reflect on how you can support someone who is making a difficult choice. What actions can you take?

Understand the Doctrine of Mortal Life

Elder Andersen reiterates the Church's unwavering stance on the sanctity of life and the importance of protecting unborn children. He explains that the Church opposes elective abortion except in rare cases and encourages individuals to seek divine confirmation in such situations.

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

Nurturing and protecting life that is yet unborn is not a political position. It is a moral law confirmed by the Lord through His prophets.

What are the exceptions to the Church's stance on abortion, as outlined by Elder Andersen?
Why is the protection of unborn life considered a moral law rather than a political position?
How can you uphold the sanctity of life in your everyday actions and decisions?
Reflect on how you can educate others about the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life.

Speak Openly About Sacred Topics

Elder Andersen encourages open discussions about the Lord's law of chastity, the sanctity of life, and the care of the unborn. He highlights the eagerness of youth to learn gospel truths and gain testimonies, urging members to speak with faith and compassion in various Church settings.

The youth of the Church are hungry for things of the Spirit; they are eager to learn the gospel, and they want it straight, undiluted.

What does Elder Andersen say about the importance of speaking openly with youth about sacred topics?
How can open discussions strengthen testimonies and understanding of gospel principles?
How can you create opportunities for open and honest discussions about gospel topics in your family or Church group?
Reflect on a time when an open discussion helped you gain a deeper understanding of a gospel principle.

Exemplify Faith and Courage

Elder Andersen shares stories of individuals who demonstrated remarkable faith and courage in difficult circumstances, such as choosing life for their unborn children despite challenges. He emphasizes that such faith and courage are hallmarks of true disciples of Jesus Christ.

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

The Savior healed my heart and gave me a sense of peace and excitement about our baby girl.

How do the stories shared by Elder Andersen illustrate faith and courage in the face of adversity?
What role does faith play in making difficult decisions according to Elder Andersen?
Reflect on a challenge you are currently facing. How can you draw upon your faith to find peace and courage?
Consider how you can support others in your community who are demonstrating faith and courage in their trials.