Beware the Second Temptation

Resist the Urge to Hide

Elder Whiting discusses the human tendency to hide after making mistakes, drawing parallels to the story of Adam and Eve. He emphasizes the importance of resisting this "second temptation" and instead facing our errors openly to seek divine help.

Many patterns in human behavior seem to be common in the natural man—the desire to fit in, the desire to prove oneself, the fear of missing out, and the compelling need to hide so we avoid consequences.

This temptation—I will call it the "second temptation"—is the temptation that may bring the greatest consequence if we succumb.

• The natural man often desires to hide after wrongdoing.
• Hiding from God is impossible; He sees all.
• Facing mistakes openly allows for divine help and healing.

• Recall a time when you felt the urge to hide after making a mistake. How did you overcome it?
• Think about a moment when you sought help instead of hiding. What was the outcome?
• Share an experience where being open about your struggles led to unexpected support or guidance.

Understanding the Role of Temptation

Elder Whiting explains that while succumbing to initial temptations is common, the real danger lies in hiding afterwards. He highlights the need for ongoing progression and reliance on the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Surely, to avoid all first temptations to break God’s law is optimal, but we know that all will succumb to a variety of first temptations here on earth.

Beware this second temptation! Follow the counsel of prophets both ancient and modern and know that you cannot hide from a loving Father.

• Initial temptations are part of mortal experience.
• The danger lies in the "second temptation" to hide.
• Progression requires facing our errors and seeking divine help.

• Reflect on a time you overcame a temptation by seeking help.
• Consider how understanding the purpose of temptations has affected your spiritual journey.
• Share how the Atonement has helped you progress after succumbing to temptation.

Support for New Converts

Elder Whiting addresses new converts, acknowledging the challenges they face in changing lifestyles and resisting the adversary's attempts to isolate them. He emphasizes the importance of community support and the power of the Atonement.

The adversary knows that you may be vulnerable to his subtle attacks.

We love you; you can do it; we accept you; and with the Savior, you will have strength to do all.

• New converts may face challenges in changing lifestyles.
• The adversary seeks to isolate and discourage them.
• Community support and the Atonement are vital for overcoming these challenges.

• Think of a time when a community supported you through a difficult change.
• Share an instance where you felt isolated and how you found strength to reconnect.
• Reflect on how the Atonement has helped you overcome feelings of inadequacy.

The Power of the Atonement

Elder Whiting underscores the healing and strengthening power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He encourages members to seek this divine help rather than hide from it, emphasizing its role in our progression.

Through the matchless power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, you can be made whole again.

Instead, avail yourself of the miraculous healing power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

• The Atonement offers healing for spiritual wounds.
• Seeking the Atonement is crucial for overcoming the "second temptation."
• It plays a vital role in our eternal progression.

• Share a personal experience where the Atonement brought healing to your life.
• Reflect on a time when you felt strengthened by the Atonement.
• Consider how the Atonement has helped you progress in your spiritual journey.

Creating a Culture of Belonging

Elder Whiting calls on Church members to foster a culture of love and acceptance. He stresses the importance of welcoming all who seek to progress, helping them resist the temptation to hide.

As His Saints, each of us must foster a culture of belonging in the Church that is loving, accepting, and encouraging of all who desire to progress along His path.

• A culture of belonging helps prevent isolation.
• Love and acceptance are crucial for spiritual growth.
• We must support each other in our progression.

• Think of a time when you felt truly accepted in a community.
• Share how you have helped someone feel they belong in the Church.
• Reflect on the impact of a loving and accepting environment on your spiritual growth.