Lesson Prepration Guide for "Smiling Faces and Grateful Hearts"

In his heartfelt General Conference address, Elder Carlos A. Godoy shares his experiences and observations from serving in the Africa South Area of the Church. Through inspiring stories of faith and resilience, he illustrates how the Saints in Africa embody the profound teaching that true joy comes from focusing on God's plan and Jesus Christ, regardless of life's circumstances. Elder Godoy emphasizes the power of gratitude and a positive attitude in overcoming challenges, drawing on scriptural insights and personal testimonies to affirm the Savior's healing power.

Ideas for Opening the Lesson

Begin by sharing a personal experience where you found joy despite challenging circumstances. Invite class members to think of similar experiences in their lives.
Show a short video or slideshow of the Saints in Africa, highlighting their smiling faces and grateful hearts, to set the tone for the lesson.
Ask the class to reflect on a time when they witnessed someone showing gratitude in difficult situations and how it impacted them.
Start the lesson by reading the quote from President Russell M. Nelson on joy and ask the class to consider what the focus of their lives is.
Invite a class member to share their favorite scripture about gratitude and discuss why it is meaningful to them.

Topics

Witnessing the Growth of the Church in Africa

Elder Godoy shared his experiences serving in Africa, where the Church is thriving. He noted how many members, despite modest means, are transforming their lives through faithfulness and Church educational programs.

It has been a blessing to serve among the faithful Saints in the Africa South Area and witness the Lord’s love for them.

What can we learn from the growth of the Church in Africa about the strength of faith?
How do the educational opportunities provided by the Church help members improve their lives?
In what ways can we support the growth of the Church in our own areas?
How does witnessing the faith of others strengthen your own testimony?
What role does gratitude play in the growth and success of the Church?

Finding Joy Amidst Challenges

Elder Godoy highlighted the ability of the African Saints to find joy regardless of their circumstances by focusing on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.

How can we find joy in our own lives, regardless of our circumstances?
What does it mean to focus our lives on God’s plan of salvation?
How can we help others find joy despite their challenges?
What are some practical ways to shift our focus to the Savior during difficult times?
Can you share a time when you felt joy despite a challenging situation?

The Power of Gratitude

Throughout his talk, Elder Godoy emphasized the gratitude of the Saints in Africa, who face many challenges yet remain thankful and positive.

Again, no complaints—only a smiling face and a grateful heart.

Why is gratitude important in our spiritual journey?
How can we cultivate a grateful heart in challenging times?
What are some ways to express gratitude daily?
How does gratitude influence our relationships with others?
Can you share an experience where gratitude changed your perspective?

The Savior’s Healing Power

Elder Godoy testified of the Savior’s ability to succor us in all circumstances, referencing scriptures that emphasize His empathy and understanding of our burdens.

No human being, perhaps, knows. But the Son of God perfectly knows and understands.

How can we access the Savior’s healing power in our lives?
What does it mean to take the Savior’s yoke upon us?
How can understanding the Savior’s empathy help us in our trials?
In what ways have you felt the Savior’s healing power?
Why is it important to remember that the Savior understands our burdens?

Examples of Faith and Resilience

Elder Godoy shared multiple examples of African Saints who demonstrate faith and resilience, such as enduring long walks to church and worshiping in humble conditions.

They faced this journey back and forth, every Sunday, with no complaints—only smiling faces and grateful hearts.

What can we learn from the resilience of the Saints in Africa?
How does faith help us overcome difficult circumstances?
Why is it important to maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity?
Can you share a time when you witnessed someone’s resilience in their faith?
How does resilience strengthen our relationship with the Savior?

Additional Discussion Questions

What role does service play in finding joy and gratitude?
How can we apply the principle of smiling faces and grateful hearts in our daily lives?
What are some ways to support those who are struggling to find joy?
How can we better focus our lives on the gospel of Jesus Christ?
In what ways can we express gratitude for the Savior’s atonement?
What can we do to help others feel the Savior’s love and healing power?
How can we strengthen our faith to be more resilient in trials?
What are some small acts of gratitude that can have a big impact?
How can we teach our children to find joy and gratitude in all circumstances?
What changes can we make to better align our lives with the teachings of the Savior?