Harden Not Your Heart
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What does it mean to have a hardness of heart, and how can it affect our spiritual growth?
- How did Nephi's approach to the teachings of his father differ from that of Laman and Lemuel?
- What are some practices Elder Kim suggests to avoid hardening our hearts?
- How does repentance play a role in softening our hearts according to Elder Kim?
- What example does Jesus Christ set for us in terms of humility and obedience?
Topics
Understand the Consequences of a Hardened Heart
Elder Kim explains that a hardened heart leads to spiritual blindness and a rejection of the Spirit. Using the example of Laman and Lemuel, he illustrates how stubbornness and worldly desires can close us off from divine guidance and the mysteries of God.
When we harden our hearts, we are blinded, and good things cannot come into our hearts or our minds.
They that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries.
- What are the characteristics of a hardened heart?
- How did Laman and Lemuel's hardened hearts affect their spiritual journey?
- In what ways might I be hardening my heart to the Spirit?
- How can I recognize when I am focusing too much on worldly desires?
Practice Daily Repentance
Elder Kim emphasizes the importance of daily repentance as a means to soften our hearts and progress spiritually. He quotes President Nelson to highlight that repentance is key to moving forward on the covenant path and experiencing the joy of the gospel.
Repenting is the key to progress. Pure faith keeps us moving forward on the covenant path.
Please do not fear or delay repenting. Satan delights in your misery. … Start today to experience the joy of putting off the natural man.
- How does daily repentance help us to soften our hearts?
- What role does repentance play in our spiritual progression?
- What steps can I take to make repentance a daily practice?
- How have I experienced the joy of repentance in my own life?
Embrace Humility
Humility is presented as a vital attribute in softening our hearts and inviting the Spirit. Elder Kim shares a story of a woman who learned to humble herself and align her understanding with God's perspective, leading to spiritual growth and a desire to follow Christ.
She had to let go of her stubbornness and her own wisdom. She started to humble herself through sincere repentance.
The more they became humble, the more they could understand the words of God, and their hearts were softened to follow the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- Why is humility essential in receiving the Spirit?
- How did humility change the woman's perspective and actions in Elder Kim's story?
- In what areas of my life do I need to let go of my own wisdom and embrace humility?
- How can I cultivate a more humble attitude in my daily interactions?
Trust and Rely on the Savior
Elder Kim encourages us to trust in the Lord rather than relying on our own strength. By doing so, we open our hearts to His guidance and support, especially during trials. Nephi's example of unwavering trust in the Lord is highlighted as a model for us to follow.
I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh.
Put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good—yea, to do justly, to walk humbly.
- What does it mean to trust in the Lord?
- How does trusting in the Savior help us during difficult times?
- What are some areas in my life where I need to rely more on the Savior?
- How can I strengthen my trust in the Lord daily?
Follow the Example of Jesus Christ
Elder Kim points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of meekness and obedience. Despite His perfection, Christ submitted to the Father's will, teaching us the importance of humility and willingness to follow God's commandments.
But notwithstanding he being holy, he showeth unto the children of men that, according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments.
Glory be to the Father, and [He] partook and finished [His] preparations unto the children of men.
- How did Jesus Christ exemplify meekness and obedience?
- What can we learn from Christ's submission to the Father's will?
- In what ways can I strive to follow Christ's example of humility and obedience?
- How can I better submit my will to the Father's in my daily life?
