Finding Answers

If you listen to general conference, you can often find answers to the questions that concern you.

Why do I have to go through trials?

Sometimes we want to have growth without challenges and to develop strength without any struggle. But growth cannot come by taking the easy way. We clearly understand that an athlete who resists rigorous training will never become a world-class athlete. We must be careful that we don’t resent the very things that help us put on the divine nature.

Not one of the trials and tribulations we face is beyond our limits, because we have access to help from the Lord. We can do all things through Christ, who strengthens us.

Elder Paul V. Johnson of the Seventy

How do I know if I am living according to God’s will?

In many of the uncertainties and challenges we encounter in our lives, God requires us to do our best to act and not be acted upon (see 2 Nephi 2:26), and to trust in Him. We may not see angels, hear heavenly voices, or receive overwhelming spiritual impressions. We frequently may press forward hoping and praying—but without absolute assurance—that we are acting in accordance with God’s will. But as we honor our covenants and keep the commandments, as we strive ever more consistently to do good and to become better, we can walk with the confidence that God will guide our steps.

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

How can I measure up to the high expectations of our Heavenly Father?

If we sincerely desire and strive to measure up to the high expectations of our Heavenly Father, He will ensure that we receive all the help we need, whether it be comforting, strengthening, or chastening. If we are open to it, needed correction will come in many forms and from many sources. It may come in the course of our prayers as God speaks to our mind and heart through the Holy Ghost (see D&C 8:2). It may come in the form of prayers that are answered no or differently than we had expected. Chastening may come as we study the scriptures and are reminded of deficiencies, disobedience, or simply matters neglected.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What can I do right now to help the Church grow?

Another way we can serve Heavenly Father’s children is through missionary service—not only as full-time missionaries but also as friends and neighbors. The future growth of the Church will not happen through just knocking on strangers’ doors. It will happen when the members, along with our missionaries, filled with the love of God and Christ, discern needs and respond to those needs in the spirit of charitable service.

When we do this, brothers and sisters, the honest in heart will feel our sincerity and our love. Many will want to know more about us. Then and only then will the Church expand to fill all of the earth. This cannot be accomplished by missionaries alone but requires the interest and service of every member.

Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Should we be afraid of what is happening in the world?

We live in a time of turmoil. Earthquakes and tsunamis wreak devastation, governments collapse, economic stresses are severe, the family is under attack, and divorce rates are rising. We have great cause for concern. But we do not need to let our fears displace our faith. We can combat those fears by strengthening our faith. … Let your faith be focused on our loving Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Can I really be forgiven?

Jesus Christ is the Great Healer of our souls. With the exception of sins of perdition, there is no sin or transgression, pain or sorrow, which is outside of the healing power of His Atonement.

When we sin, Satan tells us we are lost. In contrast, our Redeemer offers redemption to all—no matter what we have done wrong—even to you and to me.

Elder C. Scott Grow of the Seventy

What can I do to make a difference in other people’s lives?

We can follow the example of the good Samaritan and “change the world” of just one person by being benevolent. I would like to invite each of you to do at least one Samaritan-like act this coming week. It may require that you reach beyond your usual friends or overcome your shyness. You may courageously choose to serve someone who doesn’t treat you well. I promise that if you will extend yourself beyond what is easy to do, you will feel so good inside that kindness will start to become a part of your everyday life.

Mary N. Cook, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency

Does a testimony grow and change?

A testimony is similar to a living organism that grows and develops when treated properly. It needs constant nourishment, care, and protection to thrive and prosper. Likewise, neglect or deviance from the pattern of living that a testimony clarifies can lead to its loss or diminishment. The scriptures warn that transgressing or breaking the commandments of God can result in the loss of the Spirit and even to one denying the testimony he or she once possessed.

Elder Cecil O. Samuelson of the Seventy

Why should I listen to my parents when they tell me to change?

Parents can and must correct, even chasten, if their children are not to be cast adrift at the mercy of a merciless adversary and his supporters.

Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What does it mean to be a Latter-day Saint?

A Latter-day Saint is quite an ordinary individual. … We are taught to be in the world but not of the world. Therefore, we live ordinary lives in ordinary families mixed in with the general population.

We are taught not to lie or steal or cheat. We do not use profanity. We are positive and happy and not afraid of life.

We are “willing to mourn with those that mourn … and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places” [Mosiah 18:9].

If someone is looking for a church that requires very little, this is not the one. It is not easy to be a Latter-day Saint, but in the long run it is the only true course.

President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What does it mean to rest from our labors on the Sabbath?

Sometimes we think of resting from our labors as merely letting the hay baler stand idle in the field or putting a Closed sign on the business door. Yet in today’s world, labor includes the everyday work of our lives. This could mean business activities we may accomplish from home, athletic competitions, and other pursuits that take us away from Sabbath day worship and the opportunity to minister to others.

Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What should I wear on Sunday?

I believe [Christ] … desires us to dress appropriately. Our youth may think the old saying “Sunday best” is outdated. Still, we know that when Sunday dress deteriorates to everyday attire, attitudes and actions follow. Of course, it may not be necessary for our children to wear formal Sunday attire until the sun goes down. However, by the clothing we encourage them to wear and the activities we plan, we help them prepare for the sacrament and enjoy its blessings throughout the day.

Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Who can receive revelation?

The spirit of revelation is available to every person who receives by proper priesthood authority the saving ordinances of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost—and who is acting in faith to fulfill the priesthood injunction to “receive the Holy Ghost.” This blessing is not restricted to the presiding authorities of the Church; rather, it belongs to and should be operative in the life of every man, woman, and child who reaches the age of accountability and enters into sacred covenants. Sincere desire and worthiness invite the spirit of revelation into our lives.

Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

What if my health doesn’t allow me to serve a full-time mission?

President Monson spoke of “every worthy, able young man [preparing] to serve a mission.” On occasion, because of health or other reasons, one might not be able to serve. You will know your ability to serve as you speak with your parents and your bishop. Should this be your situation, please do not feel less important in the noble commission before you. The Lord is very generous to those who love Him, and He will open other doors for you.

Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

How are general conference topics chosen?

Perhaps you already know (but if you don’t you should) that with rare exception, no man or woman who speaks here is assigned a topic. Each is to fast and pray, study and seek, start and stop and start again until he or she is confident that for this conference, at this time, his or hers is the topic the Lord wishes that speaker to present regardless of personal wishes or private preferences. Every man and woman you have heard during the past 10 hours of general conference has tried to be true to that prompting. Each has wept, worried, and earnestly sought the Lord’s direction to guide his or her thoughts and expression. … My Brethren and sisters among the general officers of the Church [are] mortal messengers with angelic messages, … who with faith have consecrated their lives to the callings that have come to them and the duty to preach God’s word, not their own.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The music especially touched me. When the choir sang one closing hymn, “More Holiness Give Me,” I knew that Heavenly Father will help me as I try daily to become more like Christ. I know that the messages (through both music and word) were inspired.

Brandyn Y., 16, Arkansas, USA

I enjoyed general conference because of the Spirit I felt when watching it. I had many questions coming into the weekend, and one by one they were answered. I am grateful for the opportunity to listen and learn from our prophet and all of his counselors. Because of their diligence in preparing their talks and listening to the Spirit, my questions were answered.

Taylor B., 16, Utah, USA

This past conference was very spiritual for me. As I took notes I felt more enlightened and found new things to work on to become more like my Savior. I cannot wait to begin changing, become better, give more service to others, and try to make this world a better place. I feel more motivated to share the gospel.

Chelsey F., 18, Illinois, USA

The messages in this conference reminded me of how important our families are and how precious our time with them is. They also made me realize the importance of service to others, within and outside of our families.

Jorri F., 17, Utah, USA

I liked how Elder L. Tom Perry talked about the Sabbath day. It reminded me of how important it is to keep the Sabbath day holy and to do my priesthood duties every week.

Jarom L., 13, Alberta, Canada

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland talked about how conference topics are chosen by the Spirit and some apply specifically to each of us. I know that one talk especially applied to me and a challenge I am going through. I know it will help me. Some people may get tired of hearing the same lessons or advice over and over again, but sometimes we need that extra time to really dedicate ourselves to try harder.

Christina G., 13, Missouri, USA

I found conference very spiritually uplifting. I learned many things, including the importance of calling ourselves “Latter-day Saints” instead of “Mormons,” which I know I will apply in my daily life. I am very glad I have the gospel in my life and that it was restored through Joseph Smith. I would like to apply every bit of wisdom I heard into my life as much as I can.

Jeffrey H., 14, Indiana, USA