Lesson Prepration Guide for "Look to God and Live"

In his talk, "Look to God and Live," Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares a poignant message about the power of turning to God in times of trial and uncertainty. He recounts a tragic accident in Lesotho that claimed the lives of several Church members, highlighting the survivors" resilience and faith. Elder Christofferson uses this story to illustrate the broader principle of looking to God for comfort, guidance, and strength, drawing upon scriptural examples and teachings from Church leaders to reinforce the importance of keeping God as our highest priority.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin the lesson by sharing the story of the accident in Lesotho mentioned in the talk. Ask class members to reflect on how they have found comfort in their own lives during times of tragedy.
Play a hymn or song about faith in Christ to set the tone for the lesson and invite the Spirit.
Ask the class to think of a time when they felt distant from God and what actions helped them to "look to God" again.
Share a personal experience or testimony about a time when looking to God provided guidance and peace.
Invite a class member to share a brief testimony or experience related to enduring trials with faith in God.

Topics

Finding Comfort in Tragedy

Elder Christofferson shared the story of a tragic accident in Lesotho that led to the loss of many lives. Despite the pain, the survivors and community found solace in turning to God through music, scripture, and prayer.

“Jesus Christ loves us and is with us, even though our hearts hurt.”

How can we find comfort in God during times of personal tragedy?
What role do prayer and scripture play in finding solace after a loss?
How have you seen others find strength in their faith during difficult times?
What can we do to support others who are experiencing grief or loss?
How does our faith in Jesus Christ help us cope with unanswered questions?

The Power of Looking to God

Elder Christofferson emphasized the importance of looking to God for guidance and strength. He cited examples from scripture, such as the brass serpent, to illustrate how looking to God can lead to spiritual and temporal blessings.

“If they would look they might live. … And if we … look we may live forever.”

What does it mean to "look to God" in our daily lives?
How do the stories of the brass serpent and the Liahona relate to our own faith journey?
In what ways have you experienced blessings from looking to God?
How can we encourage others to turn to God in times of need?
What are some practical ways to keep God as our highest priority?

Prospering Through Obedience

The talk highlighted the promise that obedience to God's commandments leads to prosperity. This prosperity includes spiritual guidance, economic well-being, and the ability to rise above challenges.

“Inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments ye shall prosper in the land.”

What does "prosper" mean in the context of the gospel?
How have you seen the promise of prosperity fulfilled in your life or others" lives?
Why is obedience to God's commandments crucial for spiritual prosperity?
How can we maintain faith in this promise during times of economic hardship?
What are some examples of spiritual prosperity you have witnessed?

The Importance of Chastity

Elder Christofferson reiterated the importance of keeping the law of chastity, as taught in For the Strength of Youth, and the consequences of violating this divine law.

“Few things will complicate your life more quickly than violating this divine law [of chastity].”

Why is chastity considered a divine law?
How can we teach the importance of chastity to the youth?
What are the spiritual consequences of violating the law of chastity?
How does living a chaste life bring us closer to God?
What role does repentance play in overcoming past mistakes related to chastity?

The Role of the Holy Ghost

The talk emphasized the importance of the Holy Ghost in providing guidance, inspiration, and the ability to make righteous decisions. Losing the companionship of the Holy Ghost can lead to feeling spiritually adrift.

“He brings inspiration and guidance, enhances and refines one’s native gifts and abilities.”

How can we invite the Holy Ghost into our daily lives?
What are the signs that we might be losing the companionship of the Holy Ghost?
How does the Holy Ghost help us make better decisions?
In what ways can we strengthen our connection with the Holy Ghost?
What experiences have you had where the Holy Ghost provided guidance?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does it mean to you to 'look to God and live'?
How can we apply the principle of looking to God in our daily challenges?
What are some ways we can support each other in keeping God as our highest priority?
How does the Atonement of Jesus Christ empower us to endure to the end?
How can we better recognize the blessings that come from keeping the commandments?
In what ways can we help others who are struggling with faith to 'look to God'?
What role does gratitude play in maintaining a focus on God?
How can we use the scriptures to strengthen our resolve to follow God?
What are some personal experiences where looking to God changed your perspective?
How can we teach our children to prioritize God in their lives?