Lesson Prepration Guide for "Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior"

In his General Conference talk, Elder Dale G. Renlund emphasizes the importance of personal preparation for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. He draws on the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly the parables in Matthew 25, to illustrate how we can prepare ourselves spiritually and live without fear. Elder Renlund encourages each of us to follow the Savior's teachings, develop our God-given talents, and serve others as we prepare to meet the Savior.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by asking the class to share their initial thoughts or feelings when they hear about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This can help set the stage for discussing how we can prepare without fear.
Share a brief overview of the three parables mentioned in the talk (the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and goats) and ask the class to think about how these stories relate to personal preparation.
Play a hymn or song that speaks about the Second Coming and invite class members to reflect on the lyrics and what they mean to them personally.
Start with a personal story or testimony about a time when preparation or readiness made a significant difference in your life, and tie it to spiritual preparation.
Pose the question: "What does it mean to you to be personally prepared to meet the Savior?" and encourage a few responses before diving into the talk.

Topics

Prepare for the Second Coming with Optimism

Elder Renlund emphasized the importance of preparing for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ with joyful optimism, as taught by President Russell M. Nelson. He reassured that by following the Savior's teachings, we can overcome fear and anxiety.

When President Nelson speaks about the Second Coming, it is always with joyful optimism.

How can we cultivate a sense of joyful optimism about the Second Coming?
What are some practical ways we can prepare for the Second Coming in our daily lives?
Have you ever felt anxious about the Second Coming? How did you overcome those feelings?
Why do you think President Nelson focuses on optimism when discussing the Second Coming?
How can we help others, especially children, feel less anxious about the Second Coming?

Learn from the Parable of the Ten Virgins

The parable of the ten virgins teaches the importance of personal preparation through receiving the truth, having the Holy Ghost as a guide, and avoiding deception. These actions ensure our readiness to meet the Savior.

We are wise when we accept the gospel, seek to have the Holy Ghost with us, and avoid deception.

What does it mean to have the Holy Ghost as a guide in our lives?
How can we ensure we are not deceived by false teachings or influences?
What are some "drops" of oil that we can add to our spiritual lamps daily?
Why is personal preparation emphasized in this parable?
How can we support each other in our personal preparations?

Magnify Your God-given Talents

Elder Renlund discussed the parable of the talents, highlighting that God expects us to magnify our abilities without comparing them to others. We should strive to become the best version of ourselves with the Savior's help.

With His loving assistance, He expects us to become the best version of ourselves.

How can we identify and magnify our unique talents?
What role does the Savior play in helping us develop our talents?
Why is it important not to compare our talents to those of others?
How can we encourage others to develop their talents?
What might hold us back from magnifying our talents, and how can we overcome these obstacles?

Serve Others as Serving the Savior

The parable of the sheep and goats illustrates that serving others is equivalent to serving God. We are encouraged to use our gifts to bless the lives of others, especially the most vulnerable.

When we serve others, we serve God; when we don’t, we disappoint.

In what ways can we serve those who are most vulnerable in our communities?
How does serving others prepare us to meet the Savior?
What are some barriers to serving others, and how can we overcome them?
How can we make service a more integral part of our lives?
Can you share an experience where serving someone else brought you closer to the Savior?

Trust in the Holy Ghost and Trusted Individuals

Elder Renlund encouraged trusting the Holy Ghost and seeking counsel from faithful disciples to avoid deception and receive guidance. This trust helps us develop our abilities and prepare for the Savior's return.

Rely on those who love you and who love the Savior.

How can we strengthen our relationship with the Holy Ghost?
Why is it important to seek counsel from trusted individuals in our spiritual journey?
How can we discern between true and false guidance?
What role does the Holy Ghost play in helping us prepare for the Second Coming?
How can we become more receptive to the promptings of the Holy Ghost?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does personal preparation for the Second Coming mean to you?
How can we help others feel optimistic about the future despite challenges?
What lessons can we learn from the parable of the talents about personal growth?
How can we apply the principles of the parable of the sheep and goats in our daily lives?
What are some ways to invite the Holy Ghost more fully into our lives?
How can we better recognize and avoid deception in our spiritual journey?
Why is it important to focus on serving others as we prepare for the Savior's return?
What are some practical steps we can take to be ready to meet the Savior?
How can we balance personal preparation with helping others prepare for the Second Coming?
What role does faith play in our preparation for the Second Coming?