Finding Answers

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

How can I tell if an impression comes from God?

Two indicators that a feeling or prompting comes from God are that it produces peace in your heart and a quiet, warm feeling.

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Is it too late for me to be forgiven?

It is never too late so long as the Master of the vineyard says there is time [see Matthew 20:1–15]. Please listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit telling you right now, this very moment, that you should accept the atoning gift of the Lord Jesus Christ and enjoy the fellowship of His labor. Don’t delay.

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

What if I come from a single-parent family?

Please never feel that you are in some kind of second-tier subcategory of Church membership, somehow less entitled to the Lord’s blessings than others. In the kingdom of God there are no second-class citizens.

We hope that when you attend meetings and see seemingly complete and happy families or hear someone speak of family ideals, you will feel glad to be part of a church that does focus on families and teaches of their central role in Heavenly Father’s plan for the happiness of His children; that in the midst of world calamity and moral decay, we have the doctrine, authority, ordinances, and covenants that do hold out the best hope for the world, including for the future happiness of your … families.

Elder David S. Baxter of the Seventy

What is the difference between revelation and inspiration?

The Holy Ghost communicates important information that we need to guide us in our mortal journey. When it is crisp and clear and essential, it warrants the title of revelation. When it is a series of promptings we often have to guide us step by step to a worthy objective, … it is inspiration.

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

How can I help my less-active friend come back to church?

Many less-active members have loved ones on their knees daily petitioning the Lord for help in rescuing their loved one.

… It is not all that easy or comfortable for a less-active member to just walk back into the Church. They need help. They need support. They need fellowship.

… We have less-active members who are trying and willing to find the path back to activity.

… Many less-active members will hold callings if asked.

… A less-active member deserves to be treated as an equal and be viewed as a son or daughter of a loving God.

Bishop Richard C. Edgley, Former First Counselor in the Presiding Bishopric

What are some of the ways God communicates with the prophet?

How does the Savior reveal His will and doctrine to prophets, seers, and revelators? He may act by messenger or in His own person. He may speak by His own voice or by the voice of the Holy Spirit—a communication of Spirit to spirit that may be expressed in words or in feelings that convey understanding beyond words (see 1 Nephi 17:45; D&C 9:8). He may direct Himself to His servants individually or acting in council (see 3 Nephi 27:1–8).

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

Do I really have to go to all my church meetings if I’m living the gospel?

Sometimes we use the terms gospel and Church interchangeably, but they are not the same. They are, however, exquisitely interconnected, and we need both. …

Some have come to think of activity in the Church as the ultimate goal. Therein lies a danger. It is possible to be active in the Church and less active in the gospel. Let me stress: activity in the Church is a highly desirable goal; however, it is insufficient. Activity in the Church is an outward indication of our spiritual desire. If we attend our meetings, hold and fulfill Church responsibilities, and serve others, it is publicly observed.

By contrast, the things of the gospel are usually less visible and more difficult to measure, but they are of greater eternal importance. For example, how much faith do we really have? How repentant are we? How meaningful are the ordinances in our lives? How focused are we on our covenants?

I repeat: we need the gospel and the Church. In fact, the purpose of the Church is to help us live the gospel.

Elder Donald L. Hallstrom of the Presidency of the Seventy

I’m struggling with one of the standards. What should I do?

President Harold B. Lee taught, “The most important of all the commandments of God is that one that you are having the most difficulty keeping today.” … If you are struggling with keeping these standards and commandments, I encourage you to look for support within the gospel. Read your scriptures. Spend time on … LDS.org to find answers to your questions. Talk to your parents, your Church leaders, and those who shine brightly as they live the gospel. Pray. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father, who loves you. Use the gift of repentance daily. Serve others. And most important, listen to and obey the promptings of the Holy Ghost.

Ann M. Dibb, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency

I want to be a stay-at-home mom rather than have a career. Why do I need to get an education?

Gaining knowledge now will pay huge dividends when you become a mother. “A mother’s education level has a profound influence on the educational choices of her [children].” … Educated women “tend to: Give birth to healthier babies, have children who are healthier, be more confident, resilient and have improved reasoning and judgment.”

We learn in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” that “mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children.” Providing an education for your children is part of that nurturing and is your sacred responsibility. Like the stripling warriors, who “had been taught by their mothers” [Alma 56:47], you will be the most important teacher your children will ever have, so choose your learning carefully. Bless your children and your future home by learning as much as you can now.

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

I loved general conference! I tried to come as prepared as possible with questions, as Elder Richard G. Scott has advised. I fasted and prayed that I could get the most out of my conference experience. The Spirit was so strong in each session, and I received answers to each of my questions in a special way. Priesthood session really motivated me to act in fulfilling my duty to God and live so that the Light of Christ shows in my everyday actions. I shared on Facebook my conference experience and received positive feedback from nonmember friends about the gospel. I know that Heavenly Father cares for us and answers our prayers through living prophets! The music, especially the closing hymn, “I Need Thee Every Hour” [Hymns, no. 98], strengthened my testimony of the Savior and inspired me to rely more on Him. I know He lives.

Brandyn Y., 17, Arkansas, USA

The Saturday morning talk [from Elder Donald L. Hallstrom] on being active in the Church but inactive in the gospel gave me a new perspective.

Adyson S., 16, Utah, USA

General conference renewed an eternal perspective in my heart. I find it easier to do what is right and be happy after listening to and truly pondering the words spoken at general conference. My testimony has been greatly strengthened. I had questions about my own cleanliness from sin and what I needed to do to help myself and some of my friends, and general conference has brought me to the answers to those questions.

Samuel M., 18, Oregon, USA

I had come into general conference thinking about the Atonement and how it applies to me. This conference it seemed to be a main point that we can all repent and improve our lives, that Jesus suffered for me, and that I can repent to live with Him again. Jesus suffered for me so that I don’t have to suffer. Some of the talks brought tears to my eyes as I thought of the Savior’s love. Elder Bednar started his talk by telling the brethren that he loved us. It brought tears to my eyes, thinking of a General Authority loving me. As I listened to other talks, many mentioned their love for us. If they can love us, surely Jesus can love us even more.

Joseph R., 15, Colorado, USA