Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What are the three parables discussed by Elder Renlund in his talk?
- How can the teachings of these parables help us prepare for the Second Coming?
- What does Elder Renlund say about avoiding deception?
- How does Elder Renlund suggest we use our talents and gifts?
- What is the significance of serving others according to the parable of the sheep and goats?
Topics
Prepare for the Second Coming with Joyful Optimism
Elder Renlund emphasizes that preparation for the Second Coming should be approached with optimism rather than fear. He reassures us that by following the Savior’s teachings, we can live without anxiety about the future.
When President Nelson speaks about the Second Coming, it is always with joyful optimism.
The best advice for her, for you, and for me is to follow the Savior’s teachings.
- How does Elder Renlund suggest we can overcome fear about the Second Coming?
- What role does following the Savior's teachings play in preparing for His return?
- What specific steps can you take to cultivate a joyful optimism about the Second Coming?
- How can you help others who may feel anxious about the future?
Receive the Truth and Abide the Day
Elder Renlund discusses the parable of the ten virgins and highlights the importance of receiving the truth, having the Holy Ghost as a guide, and avoiding deception. These steps prepare us to meet the Savior without fear.
For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall … abide the day.
- What are the three aspects of preparation highlighted in the parable of the ten virgins?
- Why is it important to have the Holy Ghost as a guide?
- What personal acts of devotion can you perform to invite the Holy Ghost into your life?
- How can you strengthen your ability to discern truth and avoid deception?
Magnify Your God-Given Abilities
Elder Renlund uses the parable of the talents to teach that God expects us to magnify our abilities without comparing them to others. We should rely on the Savior’s grace to become the best version of ourselves.
Indeed, God will be disappointed if we do not rely upon the merits, mercy, and grace of the Savior to magnify the God-given abilities we have received.
- What is the main message of the parable of the talents?
- How does Elder Renlund suggest we should view our abilities in relation to others?
- What talents or abilities do you feel you have been given by God?
- How can you work on magnifying these abilities in your daily life?
Serve Others as You Serve God
The parable of the sheep and goats illustrates that serving others is equivalent to serving God. Elder Renlund emphasizes the importance of using our gifts to bless others, especially the most vulnerable.
The message of the parable is clear: when we serve others, we serve God; when we don’t, we disappoint.
- What does the parable of the sheep and goats teach about service?
- Why is serving others considered serving God?
- Who in your life could benefit from your service right now?
- What are some ways you can use your talents to help those in need?
Trust in Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost
Elder Renlund encourages us to trust in Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost. By doing so, we can develop our unique abilities and help others, preparing ourselves for the Savior's return.
My invitation to the anxious Primary child I mentioned earlier, and to each of you, is to follow Jesus Christ and to trust the Holy Ghost as you would a cherished friend.
- What role do Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost play in our personal preparation?
- How can trusting in the Holy Ghost help us develop our abilities?
- How can you strengthen your relationship with the Savior and the Holy Ghost?
- In what ways can you seek guidance from the Holy Ghost in your daily decisions?
