Lesson Prepration Guide for "Proved and Strengthened in Christ"

In his General Conference address, Elder Henry B. Eyring of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shares profound insights into the divine process of being "proved and strengthened" by the Lord. Through personal experiences and scriptural examples, he illustrates how trials and challenges are not only tests but opportunities for growth and refinement through Christ's strength. Elder Eyring emphasizes that enduring such proving moments with faith leads to spiritual fortitude and a closer relationship with the Savior.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by sharing a personal experience where you felt overwhelmed but found strength through faith in Christ. Invite class members to think about similar experiences in their own lives.
Start with a brief discussion on the concept of "proving" in everyday life, such as testing the strength of materials, and relate it to spiritual proving.
Show a short video or share a story about someone who overcame significant trials through faith, setting the stage for discussing how trials can prove and strengthen us.
Ask the class to ponder a time when they felt God's love during a trial and invite a few members to share their experiences.
Open with a hymn or song focusing on faith and endurance, such as "How Firm a Foundation," and discuss how the lyrics relate to the themes of the talk.

Topics

Finding Strength in Overwhelming Challenges

Elder Eyring shared his personal experience of feeling overwhelmed while studying physics and mathematics. He learned that these challenges were a gift from the Lord, teaching him that with faith in Christ, he could accomplish what seemed impossible.

I felt the quiet assurance of the Lord. I felt Him say to my mind, "I am proving you, but I am also with you."

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a challenge? How did you find strength to continue?
What does it mean to you to be "proved" by the Lord?
How can we develop faith in Christ to help us through difficult times?
Why might the Lord allow us to face challenges that seem beyond our abilities?
How can we support others who are feeling overwhelmed by their trials?

Understanding the Purpose of Proving

Elder Eyring explained that proving is not just a test but a process to increase strength, much like proving steel. The Lord uses trials to enhance our spiritual strength and reveal our true nature.

To prove a piece of steel is to place it under strain. Heat, weight, and pressure are added until its true nature is enhanced and revealed.

What are some ways the Lord might "prove" us in our lives?
How can understanding the purpose of proving change our perspective on trials?
What experiences have you had where a trial strengthened you spiritually?
How does the process of proving help us become more like Christ?
In what ways can we prepare ourselves to be proved by the Lord?

Learning from Scriptural Examples of Proving

Elder Eyring discussed examples of proving in the scriptures, including Moroni, Jacob, and Joseph Smith. Each faced significant trials that refined and strengthened their faith.

In his proving, Moroni’s faith was refined and strengthened. It became more pure.

What can we learn from Moroni’s example of enduring loneliness and trials?
How did Jacob’s early afflictions prepare him for his future role?
What insights can we gain from Joseph Smith’s experience in Liberty Jail?
How do these scriptural examples inspire you in your own trials?
Why is it important to study the experiences of those who have been proved in the scriptures?

Christ's Atonement as the Ultimate Example of Proving

Elder Eyring highlighted the Savior's Atonement as the greatest example of proving and strengthening. Jesus Christ endured all pains and sorrows, proving faithful in every moment, and can strengthen us in our trials.

Because of His glorious Atonement, Jesus Christ can strengthen us in our times of trial.

How does the Savior’s Atonement provide strength during our trials?
What does it mean that Christ was "proved" through His Atonement?
How can we apply the Atonement in our lives to help us endure trials?
Why is it important to remember Christ’s example when we face our own proving?
In what ways has the Atonement strengthened you personally in your trials?

Recognizing Trials as Evidence of God's Love

Elder Eyring testified that trials are not signs of abandonment but of God's love. Through faithful service, the Lord refines and strengthens us, preparing us for eternal life.

I bear witness that these moments are not evidence that the Lord has abandoned you. Rather, they are evidence that He loves you enough to refine and strengthen you.

How can we see trials as evidence of God’s love?
What role does faith play in recognizing the purpose of our trials?
How can we support each other in understanding the refining nature of trials?
What experiences have helped you recognize God’s love during difficult times?
Why is it important to maintain a perspective of faith and hope during trials?

Additional Discussion Questions

What does it mean to be strengthened by Christ in your personal life?
How can we cultivate an attitude of gratitude during trials?
What are some practical ways to support others who are undergoing their own proving?
How can we prepare ourselves spiritually for future trials?
What role does prayer play in enduring and learning from our trials?
How can we better recognize the Lord’s hand in our lives during challenging times?
What does it mean to 'endure it well' as Joseph Smith was counseled?
How can we apply the lessons from Elder Eyring’s talk in our daily lives?
What are some ways to develop resilience in the face of adversity?
How can we help our families understand and grow from their own trials?