GCBC Week 20: All Things Work Together for Good

General Conference Book Club, Week 20:

“All Things Work Together for Good” by Elder James B. Martino of the Seventy

When we are in the midst of challenges, it is difficult to see the purpose in our struggles.  We sometimes fear that the trial is bigger than our ability to bear it.  Even Joseph Smith, in a dark time during his imprisonment, cried out to the Lord, “O God, where art thou?” (D&C 121:1), to which he received this reassurance:  “… Know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.”

In this conference talk, Elder Martino testifies:

“Our trials come in many forms, but each will allow us to become more like the Savior as we learn to recognize the good that comes from each experience. As we understand this doctrine, we gain greater assurance of our Father’s love. We may never know in this life why we face what we do, but we can feel confident that we can grow from the experience.”

What insights do you gain about facing trials as you study this talk?

Go here to find the media versions of the talk (audio, video, mp3, etc.).  If this is your first visit to the General Conference Book Club,  click here to learn more about it.

GCBC Week 19: Mother Told Me, Things Pertaining to Righteousness

I’m back-dating this to Sunday.  (I’m a little slow lately.  Moving bites. Thanks for being patient.)  We’re going to study two talks this week:

“Mother Told Me” by Elder Bradley D. Foster of the Seventy

“Things Pertaining to Righteousness” by Elder Francisco J. Vinas of the Seventy

Only 4 more weeks and 4 more talks (after this) until a new General Conference and new messages from heaven.  Both of these talks give great insights into motherhood and parenthood.  The first honors the role of motherhood and the second reminds us of our great responsibility to teach our children the things that matter most.

As you study these talks, please share in the comments any insights you have about the role of mothers.

Go here to find the media versions of the talks (audio, video, mp3, etc.).  If this is your first visit to the General Conference Book Club,  click here to learn more about it.

GCBC Week 18: Generations

“Generations Linked in Love” by Elder Russell M. Nelson

“Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation” by Elder Robert D. Hales

Because of the missed weeks, we’re doubling up a little in an attempt to catch up.  These two talks (links above) kick off our return to GCBC.  Thanks for being patient.

In the Sunday afternoon session of General Conference, Elder Nelson and Elder Scott spoke consecutively about our responsibility to our families; Elder Nelson referred to our ancestors, and Elder Scott spoke of our children.  The two talks together provide a great context of the eternal nature of our families.  They remind us of the blessings and duties that come from being part of an eternal unit in a great plan of salvation.

What stands out to you as you study these talks?

Go here to find the media versions of the talks (audio, video, mp3, etc.).  If this is your first visit to the General Conference Book Club,  click here to learn more about it.

On the road again

Early in the morning, we begin the return journey from my parents’ house to our soon-to-be-old home.  We’ll be there two days before the movers come and start packing everything up.  By next weekend, we’ll be on our way to the new home.  The kids will start school about a week and a half later.  At some point, I hope I can take a 36-hour nap.

Since I’ll be traveling, this is the talk that will be for General Conference Book Club next week:.

“He Is Risen!” by President Thomas S. Monson

I’ll try to get the actual post up when I get “home,” but for those of you who are participating, feel free to go ahead and start studying it.  Have a great weekend.

GCBC Week 17: We Follow Jesus Christ

General Conference Book Club Week 17:

“We Follow Jesus Christ” by Elder Quentin L. Cook

In the Sunday morning session of General Conference, Elder Cook’s message declared that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormons) believe in and follow Jesus Christ. His message is a great reminder of what it really means to be a Christian, and to be an example of Him in all that we do.

“As we ponder what it means to be Christians today, think about what our path of discipleship will require of us. I suggest that we contemplate and in appropriate ways emulate what the Savior did in those last two days of His mortal life.”

What do you learn as you study Elder Cook’s testimony about Jesus Christ?

Go here to find the media versions of the talk (audio, video, mp3, etc.).  If this is your first visit to the General Conference Book Club,  click here to learn more about it.