I Am a Teacher in the Church of Jesus Christ

I have been called of God to teach His children. I was set apart to this calling by the authority of His holy priesthood. I may not be formally trained to teach in the world’s way, but my calling is to teach in the Savior’s way. I qualify by living worthily, praying daily, and studying the scriptures.

As I do this, God grants me the influence and power of the Holy Spirit. Through that Spirit, He guides me during my preparation and while I am teaching. He reveals to me what I should say and what I should do.

I teach only the doctrine of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as found in the scriptures and the words of latter-day prophets. Pure doctrine invites the Spirit and has the power to change lives.

And that is the essence of my calling—to change lives, starting with my own. I am never satisfied with simply presenting a good lesson or impressing others with my abilities. My goal is the conversion of those I teach, a goal that extends far beyond our brief time together. So I invite those I teach to participate actively in their own learning. I encourage them to make their individual and family efforts—outside of class—the primary focus of gospel learning. These acts of faith will invite the Spirit and affect their lives more deeply and permanently than anything I might do.

It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times. But I know that God called me, and He will never forsake me. This is, after all, His work, not mine. And as I serve with all my heart, mind, and strength, He enlarges my capacities, gifts, and talents. The more I give in His service, the more I am able to give—and the more I can bless my family members, friends, and others I am called upon to teach.