In early August 1831, Joseph Smith and other elders of the Church were preparing to return to Kirtland after a short visit to the “land of Zion” (Doctrine and Covenants 59:3). The Lord had wanted them to preach the gospel during their trip (see Doctrine and Covenants 52:10), and some of them did so diligently. But others were hesitant. “They hide the talent which I have given unto them,” the Lord said, “because of the fear of man” (Doctrine and Covenants 60:2). Many of us know how these elders felt. Even though we love the gospel, fear and doubt might keep us from sharing it. But the Lord is merciful. He “knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor [us]” (Doctrine and Covenants 62:1). Scattered throughout these revelations to early missionaries are reassurances that can help us overcome our fears and shortcomings: “I am able to make you holy.” “All flesh is in mine hand.” “I am with the faithful always.” And “He that is faithful and endureth shall overcome the world.” (Doctrine and Covenants 60:7; 61:6; 62:9; 63:47.)
I can share my love and testimony of Jesus Christ.
How is your testimony of the gospel like a “talent,” or a treasure from God? In what ways do we sometimes “hide [our] talent”? (Doctrine and Covenants 60:2; see also Matthew 25:14–30).
What encouraging messages from the Lord do you find in sections 60 and 62? How do these messages build your confidence in sharing the gospel? As you ponder these questions, consider singing or reading the words to “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 149). What do you learn from this children’s song about sharing the gospel?
As He instructed His missionaries, the Lord revealed important truths about Himself. Look for these truths in Doctrine and Covenants 60:2–4; 61:1–2, 20, 36–38; 62:1, 6. What accounts from the scriptures illustrate the roles and attributes of the Savior that you found? (see, for example, John 8:1–11; Ether 2:14–15).
My decisions should balance “judgment and the direction of the Spirit.”
The Lord gives direction about eternal truths and principles, but He often leaves it to us to determine the specific details about how to act on these principles. How do you see this principle illustrated in Doctrine and Covenants 62? (see also Doctrine and Covenants 60:5; 61:22). How have you seen this principle in your life? Why is it good for us to make some decisions without expecting God to tell us exactly what to do?
At the end of this outline, there’s an illustration of a miracle that deeply impressed Ezra Booth: Elsa Johnson’s arm was miraculously healed. After seeing that, Ezra was eagerly baptized. And yet, within just a few months, Ezra lost his faith and became critical of the Prophet. How could this be, considering the miracle he’d witnessed?
In Doctrine and Covenants 63:16, the Savior reaffirmed what He taught in the New Testament—that the law of chastity should govern not just our actions but also our thoughts (see Matthew 5:27–28). As you read Doctrine and Covenants 63:16, write down the warnings the Savior gives about lustful thoughts. You might also ponder the opposite of each warning. For example, what are some words or phrases that are the opposite of fear? What other blessings come from having chaste thoughts and actions?
Many people think the Lord’s standards of chastity of thought and action are old-fashioned or even oppressive. What difference would it make if all of God’s children were striving to live this law? You might look for answers to this question in Elder David A. Bednar’s message “We Believe in Being Chaste” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2013, 41–44) or “Your body is sacred” (For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices, 23–26). What messages of hope do you find?
Even when we know the blessings of being chaste in our thoughts and actions, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. You might take some time to ponder what makes it difficult for you to keep the Savior’s standard of chastity—and what makes it easier. What tips might you share with others about what to do when you are tempted with unworthy thoughts?
Support one another. One of the great blessings of meeting together in Church meetings and classes is the opportunity to get support from fellow Saints in our efforts to follow the Savior. Many of us face similar challenges, and our common experiences can be a great strength. Don’t be afraid to admit that you have challenges. Share with each other what helps you live God’s laws and overcome temptation.
The principles in Doctrine and Covenants 63:58–64 go beyond taking the Lord’s name in vain. What other sacred things come “from above,” or from God? What does it mean for you to speak of these things “with care”?
For more ideas, see this month’s issues of the Liahona and For the Strength of Youth magazines.
Perhaps you could write some of the statements about the Savior found in Doctrine and Covenants 60–62 on small pieces of paper. Your children could then match these statements to pictures of Jesus from His earthly ministry (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 34–61) that demonstrate these attributes. How does He make Himself known to us today?
As you read Doctrine and Covenants 60:7; 61:2 with your children, help them find words that these verses have in common. Remind them that these revelations were given to Joseph Smith and other Church leaders. What did the Lord want them to know? You could also talk about how the Savior feels about us when we make mistakes and what it means to repent. According to Doctrine and Covenants 62:1, how can Jesus help when we are tempted?
You might ask your children what they would say if someone asked them what they love about Jesus Christ and His Church. Singing together a song about sharing the gospel, such as “I Want to Be a Missionary Now” (Children’s Songbook, 168), could give them ideas. You could then read Doctrine and Covenants 62:3 and ask your children to listen for what happens when we share our testimonies. How can the promise in verse 9 help if we feel nervous?
To introduce Doctrine and Covenants 63:64, you could sing a song about reverence with your children, such as “Reverence Is Love” (Children’s Songbook, no. 31). Then you could talk about different ways to show reverence for Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
You can help your children understand what reverence is by talking with them about an item that is special to them, such as a favorite toy, book, or blanket. Ask them how they take care of and protect things that are special to them. You could then read together Doctrine and Covenants 63:64. What things are special—or sacred—to Heavenly Father? (see, for example, verse 61 and this week’s activity page). How should we treat these things—with our words and our actions?
For more ideas, see this month’s issue of the Friend magazine.
