67 Latter-day Saint Essential Gospel Talks: Recent Episodes
Jason Morales
This podcast contains a collection of 67 of the greatest and most influential talks by leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It contains General Conference talks, BYU Speeches, CES Devotionals, and firesides that will help listeners build a foundation on the Gospel of Jesus Christ and prepare them to face the challenges of life.
This talk is directed toward the youth of the church and has some amazing promises from a prophet of God. He promises you (not the person sitting next to you, but you) that if you will sincerely and persistently do the spiritual work needed to learn how to hear the whisperings of the Holy Ghost, you will have all the direction you will ever need in your life and you will be given answers to your questions in the Lord's way. He invites us to be a part of the greatest challenge, the greatest cause, and the greatest work on earth - gathering Israel. He invites each of us to prepare for the gathering by doing 5 things: hold a seven-day fast from social media, make a weekly sacrifice of time to the Lord for three weeks, keep on the covenant path, pray daily that all of God's children might receive the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and stand out, be different, and be a light. Will you do these 5 things?
This talk was given right after the announcement that Home and Visiting Teaching was being replaced with a higher and holier way of caring for one another - ministering. This talk is meant to help everyone understand what ministering looks like and how we can follow the Savior's example in ministering to one another. Sister Bingham shares several examples of ministering and emphasizes that ministering is loving others as the Savior does. Are you loving and serving your ministering families as the Savior would? What can you do to help them feel the Savior's love for them?
In this BYU devotional, Sheri Dew teaches that we are the spiritual runners the Lord has saved for the last leg of the race. In a race, the strongest runners are saved for the last leg. The Lord knows our potential and has recommended us for the last leg of the race. To help us live up to the Lord's recommendation he has given us 5 ways to access his power. First, there is power in the Word of God. Second, there is power in the gift of the Holy Ghost. Third, there is power in the Priesthood. Fourth, there is power in the House of the Lord. Fifth, there is power in the Atonement of Jesus Christ. We can use these principles to be leaders and examples for good in our communities. In what ways can you be a leader during this last leg of the Lord's spiritual race?
In this talk President Hinkley reminds us of the importance of treating others with Christ-like love, regardless of their ethnicity, background, or beliefs. He also stresses the importance of fulfilling our responsibilities in the home. The gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to heal pains of the past and help us feel hope again. In what ways can you exhibit Christ-like love?
Elder Holland teaches that, to help us overcome the calamities of the latter-days, the Lord gave us the Book of Mormon to combat those challenges and help guide us in difficult times. He teaches some of the powerful principles it teaches and bears witness of its truthfulness. As you listen to this talk, ponder how the Book of Mormon has influenced your life. If it has been a while, commit to read and re-read the Book of Mormon - you will find answers and strength as you do so.
This is a long episode (listen to it at 1.5 speed) but it is filled with so many wonderful principles. Elder Bednar begins by outlining five principles (not a pattern) of revelation. First, we are given the gift of the Holy Ghost "that it may be with us always", not only in certain moments. We often act as if revelation is a big event that we must prepare for and that comes infrequently. However, if we are striving to be worthy, the Spirit will be our constant companion. Second, sometimes we think promptings from the Spirit should be a big, loud event, but the Spirit is most often still and small and the revelation we receive is incremental and builds upon itself over time. Third, you do not need to recognize revelation in the moment you receive it. We often, like Nephi, will see revelation in action after the fact rather than in the moment. Fourth, revelation is not only about what to do, it's also about when to do. This also ties into the principle that revelation is incremental and will build over time so that we will know what to do when the moment to do it comes. Fifth, revelation is more readily recognized when you are in the place and with the people for whom you are seeking revelation. There is also a great question and answer session about revelation and some excellent tips about teaching others. As you listen to the talk answer this question: what are you hearing that has not been said?
President Monson shares a story where, as a young secretary in his Deacon's quorum, he was asked in ward conference to share his testimony. It taught him to follow Paul's admonition to "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you." He encourages us to prepare for this by following three suggestions that, when observed and followed, will lead to safety. First, study diligently. Daily reading and application of the scriptures will have the greatest impact on our lives. Second, pray fervently remembering that with God all things are possible. Third, live righteously. Regardless of our intelligence or talents, God will sustain those who serve in righteousness. As we do these three things, the Lord will enable us to bear the burdens placed upon us.
Elder Scott shares lessons he's learned throughout his life that have helped him have peace and happiness. His primary source of peace and happiness has come through his family, his home, and the blessings of temple ordinances. He talks about the importance of having experiences with our children. He teaches about building a home with love in it. To love another righteously is to protect, to elevate, to keep pure and undefiled, and to sacrifice one’s self for the benefit of the other. He also talks about practices that will lead to a successful marriage. It's a very tender talk and you can feel the love he has for his wife as you listen to his talk. What advice will you take from his talk to help you find peace and happiness?
In this BYU Devotional Elder Uchtdorf shares five messages that all of God's Children need. First, move toward the light - God, like the sun, is always there. Second, you are better than you think you are. The scriptures are full of examples of people who thought they weren't good enough but the Lord helps them in their weakness. Third, learn to love God and your neighbor. It is the answer to many of life's challenges. Fourth, conflict is inevitable and contention is a choice. We cannot control the actions of others, but we can choose how we respond. Fifth, our Heavenly Father is a God of new beginnings. Every day can be a fresh start and opportunity to recommit and begin again to lead a more Christ-like life. Which of these messages was meant for you today?
In this talk Elder Christofferson discusses the importance of moral discipline - the consistent exercise of agency to choose the right because it is right, even when it is hard. He discusses the role of moral discipline in societies and teaches that moral discipline begins with a constant and consistent teaching and example in the home. In what ways have you learned and strengthened your moral discipline?
In this talk, Elder Bednar talks about the importance of receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost as part of our baptismal covenant. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing what thoughts and actions bring the Spirit and which ones withdraw the Spirit. He discusses the Liahona that guided Lehi's family but worked according to their faithfulness. The Holy Ghost is our spiritual Liahona - the Spirit will guide us as we are faithful. As you study this talk, the Holy Ghost will help you know what you need to do to have its companionship in your life more abundantly.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2006/04/that-we-may-always-have-his-spirit-to-be-with-us?lang=eng
Learning to feel, recognize, and follow the promptings of the Spirit is one of the most important skills you will develop in your life. In this talk, Elder Rasband teaches who the Holy Ghost is, how he speaks to us, and how to always have him with us. First, strive to live worthy of the Spirit, second, be willing to receive the Spirit, third, recognize the spirit when it comes, and fourth, act on the first prompting. How does the Holy Ghost speak to you? What do you do when you receive promptings from the Holy Ghost?
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2017/04/let-the-holy-spirit-guide?lang=eng
This is a beautiful and heart-felt talk about our personal relationship with Jesus Christ as our Mediator. Elder Packer explores justice and mercy through a parable and helps us see that both can only be satisfied with a Mediator. He pays our debts, he sets the new terms, and he provides the way for us to be free. Listen to this talk carefully and imagine yourself sitting with Elder Packer as he shares this parable.
This General Relief Society meeting talk is the first time President Hinkley introduced The Family: A Proclamation to the World. It also includes a wonderful message for young women and mothers, a hope-filled message for single mothers, and encouragement for grandmothers. How has The Family: A Proclamation to the World shaped your family? What are aspects you want to make sure you incorporate into your future family?
You might be wondering why this is a relatively obscure BYU speech is included in this list. There are two reasons: first, it is important to remember how the Lord blessed our pioneer ancestors and will do the same for us as we labor diligently on his behalf. Second, toward the end President Hinkley shares an experience he had on his mission - it is often cited by others but this is the first and only time I could find it in President Hinkley's own words. The experience and advice he shares, to forget yourself and go to work, is the key - not just to missionary work - but to overcoming and thriving through the ups and downs of life.
Elder Holland gave this talk at the MTC in 2011. In this talk Elder Holland discusses the goal behind the development of Preach My Gospel. I think it's really important for prospective missionaries to understand its purpose, which is multi-layered. First it is to enable missionaries to follow the Spirit and share what they are prompted to teach. Second, it is meant to strengthen and convert the missionary teaching the gospel. As we listen to those we teach and love them the way the Lord loves them, the Spirit will prompt us to know what to share with them and how to answer their questions and concerns. There are so many excellent nuggets in this talk for prospective missionaries. Listen to this talk with a pen and paper to write down what the Lord is trying to teach you.
Elder Uchtdorf teaches that just like we can develop physical or emotional ailments we can also develop spiritual ailments. Through sin, emotional wounds, or the absence of light in our lives, we can have spiritual pain and grief. In his talk, Elder Uchtdorf talks about how to overcome spiritual ailments through the light of Christ. He is the great physician. We can also be "bearers of light" as we help strengthen and uplift one another. How can you bring more spiritual light into your life and the lives of those around you?
Elder Wirthlin teaches that everyone passes through trials and challenges in life and how we react to adversity significantly influences our happiness throughout life. He shares some ideas that have helped him face adversity in his life: 1) learn to laugh, 2) seek an eternal perspective, 3) understand the principle of compensation, and trust in Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. As you listen to this talk, listen for promptings that will help you overcome adversity in your life.
Sister Okazaki, 1st Counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency from 1990-1997, teaches us the importance of learning by study and by faith. She likens them to rowing a boat. If we only use one of the two oars we will go in a circle no matter how fast we row - both oars are needed to make progress. Similarly, study and faith, when combined, can help us make significant strides towards our goals when we use them both. In what ways can you learn by study and by faith in your life?
President Nelson gave this talk during the General Conference after his wife, Dantzel, passed away. After expressing love for his wife and gratitude for the support his family had received, President Nelson taught a lesson that we can learn from his wife's passing: now is the time to prepare to meet God. He teaches that difficulties are a necessary part of mortal life, encourages us to repent now, and invites us to align our goals with Heavenly Father's goals. This is a tender talk with a plea to do everything we can to have an eternal family.
Guess what this talk is about...I chose this talk because during my mission I taught about the Law of Chastity a lot and our youth need to understand the "why" behind it. In this talk Elder Bednar talks about why the Law of Chastity is Important, what its purpose is, how Satan wants to abuse it, and how we can be blessed and become more like our Heavenly Father through it. As you listen to this talk, think about how you would explain the blessings of the Law of Chastity and the "why" behind it.
This is such a sweet and tender talk. Elder Holland expresses gratitude for the faithful members of the church and their examples. He shares a story from his youth learning that his parents sacrificed to pay for his mission so that he would be able to use the money he had saved to help him after his mission. This talk inspires me to be and do my best. Who has helped you become the person you are today? When was the last time you thanked them?
Elder Packer does a great job of teaching us about the importance of serving in the church and of sustaining others - weaknesses and all. The Lord promises that the weak and simple will be able to help in his work if we have faith in him and follow the Spirit. I have seen many times in my life where I have been inadequate for a calling and the Lord has helped me overcome my weaknesses and fulfill what the Lord has asked me to do. I invite each of you to have faith and commit to accept and magnify the callings extended to you.
Sister Craven does a wonderful job of reminding us about how true happiness is found and admonishes us to be careful rather that casual in keeping our covenants with the Lord. She teaches, "we can rationalize all we want, but the fact is, there is not a right way to do the wrong thing." She offers several situations and asks us to consider how careful vs. casual we are in those situations. What can you do to be more careful is keeping your covenants with the Lord?
In this talk President Nelson praises the example and ability of women and encourages them to use their abilities to help gather Israel. He gives us to do four things: 1) participate in a 10-day social media fast, 2) read the Book of Mormon between October and the end of the year, 3) establish regular temple attendance, and 4) participate fully in Relief Society (Elder's Quorum for men and individual quorums and classes for youth). As you listen to President Nelson's talk, consider how these four invitations will help you gather Israel.
Elder Eyring teaches us about the Law of the Fast - what it is, why it was given to us, and the blessings that come from obeying it. You will receive strength to overcome as you fast with a sincere heart. What will you fast for next Fast Sunday?
You may wonder why this talk is on the list, especially since it references old internet and teaching material. This talk is a great reminder to make sure we are fulfilling our family responsibilities, choosing the best media sources, and taking full advantage of the sabbath day and Family Home Evening as opportunities to strengthen our families. I especially love the admonition from the First Presidency at the end of Elder Perry's talk and believe we would all benefit from its message to each of us. Youth, what are some suggestions from this talk that you want to incorporate into your future families?
Elder Uchtdorf begins by teaching us about the importance of slowing down, particularly when we experience trials or "turbulence." Often we complicate our lives with long to-do lists and activities at the cost of focusing on the basics. Elder Uchtdorf encourages us to focus on the basics: our relationship with God, our relationship with family members, our relationship with our fellowman, and our relationship with ourselves. Take some time to ponder these relationships and identify some suggestions from Elder Uchtdorf that you want to work on.
Sister Burton teaches of the importance of the divine role of fathers and mothers and the importance of working as a team to complete one another rather than compete with one another. She also teaches principles of using kind words and specifically invites us to ask ourselves 5 questions to help us see where we can improve. It's a great remind of how we should treat one another. What can you improve as you ponder the 5 questions Sister Burton asked?
In this talk Elder Christofferson outlines our beliefs about Christ - that he atoned for our sins, was crucified and resurrected, and that through faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost we can be saved. He also discusses how doctrine is revealed to modern prophets and apostles today. What a blessing it is to have living prophets and apostles. Consider his invitation: “I appeal to all who hear or read this message to seek through prayer and study of the scriptures that same witness of the divine character, the Atonement, and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Accept His doctrine by repenting, being baptized, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and then throughout your life following the laws and covenants of the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Thanksgiving is a wonderful reminder for us to count the blessings we have and recognize the Lord's hand in our lives. President Monson was a shining example of this throughout his life. In this talk he teaches about the importance of gratitude as the virtue that leads to many other virtues. Enjoy this talk and count your many blessings on during the Thanksgiving week.
This is an excellent talk about learning how to listen to an be edified by others. In this devotional given a the beginning of the semester at BYU, President Eyring talks about sustaining others and the importance of instructing one another. He counsels us to do four things to prepare to be instructed by the Holy Ghost through others: 1) pray diligently, 2) study and learn, 3) live righteously, and 4) serve in the church. He also shared the secret his father used to never be in a bad meeting - a story that has stuck with me since I first heard this talk years ago. Are you receiving the message the Spirit is trying to tell you as you listen to others?
In his talk Elder Callister teaches us about the truths Joseph Smith learned while in the sacred grove and about his mission to restore the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Elder Callister likens the gospel to a puzzle. Through the prophet Joseph Smith, many pieces of the gospel missing from religions of his day were restored. These pieces answer questions of the soul, help us better understand our relationship with God and Jesus Christ, and our fruits of a prophet called in our day. Take some time today to ponder the restored gospel and what impact these restored truths have had on your life.
In this talk, Elder Gong talks about how the Savior is our Good Samaritan and invites us to make his church an Inn that is a refuge for all. As we seek to follow the Savior's example and prepare an Inn for others we learn 5 things: 1) We come to the Inn as we are, imperfections and all. 2) The Lord wants us to make his Inn a place of grace where all are welcome. 3) Perfection is in Jesus Christ, not in the perfectionism of the world. 4) In his Inn we become part of a gospel community centered on Jesus Christ. 5) God loves His children in our different backgrounds, circumstances, and origins. What are you doing to help others feel welcome and cared for in the Lord's Inn?
President Hinkley talks to the young men of the church about the attributes they should develop as they prepare for marriage and an eternal relationship. This include obeying the law of chastity, avoiding pornography, and keeping our hearts and minds clean, pure, and faithful. We should also obey the Word of Wisdom, be slow to anger and use a soft and kind tone in our homes. He also discusses the importance of work and getting a good education and being engaged in the gospel. We should be our spouses greatest support and cheerleader - focusing on their virtues rather than their weaknesses, and be quick to forgive. Young women, President Hinkley describes the attributes you should look for in a young man. There are so many great pieces of advice I would encourage you to listen to this with a notebook out so you're ready to catch the many one-liners that can be your motivation as you prepare for an eternal relationship.
Sister Beck talks about the challenges facing youth today and the important decisions they will soon make. As we make those decisions we must keep in mind our divine lineage and potential. Patriarchal blessings are a way the Lord has given us to see the blessings he has in store for us if we are faithful in keeping the covenants we have made. Patriarchal blessings are also a guide to help us navigate the difficult decisions and challenges we will face. Have you read your patriarchal blessing lately? If not, read it and pick out a couple lines that will help you today.
President Nelson teaches that repentance is changing our mind, knowledge, and spirit and describes the joy of repentance. He reminds us that it is never too late to repent and return to the covenant path. Repentance may seem like a daunting task if you've strayed from the path but we return one step at a time. He specifically admonishes men to repent in the way they treat their families and their bodies. Repentance will help us access the power of the priesthood. After listening to President Nelson's talk, ponder what your efforts to repent look like.
In this talk Elder Holland discusses the principle caring for the poor and needy which the Lord teaches frequently in the scriptures. When we recognize that we are all beggars we can begin to empathize and see people, regardless of their circumstances, as children of God. Elder Holland teaches that, if we are not sure how to help, turn to God for answers - he knows how we can help. Elder Holland discusses several ways we can help the poor and needy. What are you doing to follow the Saviors commandment to care for the poor and needy?
With all that the Lord asks of his disciples, some wonder why anybody would want to join a church that demands so much. Elder Uchtdorf answers this question during this talk. He also teaches that it's okay to have questions about aspects of the gospel and lovingly encourages us to continue on with the knowledge that everybody has a place in the Lord's church. This is a wonderfully comforting message. Can you think of someone who would benefit from this message? Share it with them.
Elder Eyring teaches what the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood is, what we covenant, and the blessings that come from fulfilling our covenants. The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood is the standard we should strive to achieve and is something that everyone should understand, men and women alike. It is tightly connected to our temple covenants. Sisters, the link below talks about how the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood can be accessed by women. What does the Lord expect you to do as you accept and fulfill the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood?
Link for Sisters: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2017/04/oath-and-covenant-of-the-priesthood?lang=eng
President Nelson talks about how to develop faith to move the mountains in our lives. He encourages us to put forth effort by studying the words of the Lord, believing in Jesus Christ, acting in faith, partaking of sacred ordinances, and asking Heavenly Father for help. He reminds us not to minimize the faith we already have but to nourish it so that it will grow. How will you grow your faith?
I love this talk! This devotional was given to missionaries at the Missionary Training Center. It highlights the growth and blessings that will come from serving a mission. You can feel Elder Holland's love and concern for the missionaries. I was at the MTC the week after this devotional was given and remember hearing about it from other missionaries. We had the opportunity to watch it in the MTC and it was such a motivator for me not only in the MTC but throughout my mission. Pay particular attention towards the end about how missionary work teaches us about the atonement. It's a long talk but worth it.
In this talk Elder Packer teaches about the Word of Wisdom, it's blessings, and how to answer questions about it. I would particularly draw your attention to the latter half of the talk where Elder Packer teaches us about the Holy Ghost as our companion to help us make good choices. What are the blessings promised in the Word of Wisdom? Have you seen some of them in your life?
In this talk Elder Mutombo talks about the difference between life with and without the gospel and highlights the changes that took place in his life as a result of the gospel. What changes have taken place in your life as a result of the restored gospel?
In this talk, Sister Cordon describes a conversation with President Nelson where he tells her the most important thing that youth need to know: who they are and what their purpose is. Sister Cordon expounds on who you are, what your purpose is, and how to help others learn these truths as well. What is your purpose and who will you bring along with you?
In this COVID-era talk, amidst many struggles and challenges faced all around us, Elder Holland addresses the questions we all ponder during hard times - why does the Lord allow us to have struggles and difficulties? Why doesn't he take them away? As you listen to this talk, this about how you have grown from your struggles. Remember that, while our prayers are heard and answered, it may not be in the way or on the timeline that we want, but in the Lord's way and timeline.
This devotional from President Hinkley to the youth of the church is one of my favorite! In it he teaches the youth to overcome challenges and be successful in life by following the 6 B's: Be grateful, Be smart, Be clean, Be true, Be humble, and Be prayerful.I encourage you to re-read this talk several times and focus on improving one B at a time in your life.
Elder Holland talks about the rich young man who, when asked to give up everything to follow the Savior, faltered in his ability to give up everything. Like this young man, the Lord asks that we give up flaws, prejudices, and sin. We do this when love of God and our fellow men dwells in our hearts. What has the Lord asked you to let go of? Will you do it?
President Nelson shares a message to those who are now or will be married about two steps that will help us have a more joyful marriage. First, he explores the doctrinal foundation and purpose of family and marriage. Second, he admonishes us to identify and carry out specific actions that will help us appreciate our spouse, communicate with them lovingly, and contemplate covenants made in the temple. As you listen to this talk, think of specific things you want to do have a more joyful marriage now and in the future.
I love this talk! I remember hearing for the first time and hoping that everyone in our stake was listening. Brother Wilcox does an excellent job of teaching that the Lord loves us wants us to improve. He has given us repentance as a process to help us change. The Lord doesn't expect us to be perfect all at once but he does expect us to be persistent in our efforts to change, even if it means failing over and over. This talk so clearly explains some common questions or misconceptions about repentance and our relationship with the Lord.
Elder Packer begins his seminary devotional by telling students they "are growing up in enemy territory" and proceeds to give wisdom he has gained throughout his life that will help each of us. He shares the importance of listening to and acting on promptings from the Holy Ghost, using our agency to create virtuous lives, exercising self-discipline as disciples of Christ, repenting often, and making the most of seminary. Which pieces of wisdom will you apply in your life?
Elder Uchtdorf tells the story of an elder's quorum moving a grand piano, a difficult and monumental task, by standing close together and lifting where they stand. Much like moving a grand piano, gathering Israel in Iowa is a monumental task that requires everyone lifting. How can you lift where you stand in the gospel and in the church today?
In this talk President Nelson highlights the many ways women are pivotal to the Lord's church and His Gospel. He asks, "Sisters, do you realize the breadth and scope of your influence when you speak those things that come to your heart and mind as directed by the Spirit?" Sisters, pay attention to the ways the Spirit prompts you to lead in the church. Brethren, as you listen to this talk, ponder the impact women have had in your life and how you can support the Sisters in your ward and family in gathering Israel.
Do you young people want a sure way to eliminate the influence of the adversary in your life? Elder Scott teaches that such help can come through Temple and Family History Work. We find joy as we learn about our ancestors and give them the opportunity to receive the gospel through proxy ordinances. Have you taken the name of one of your ancestors to the temple? Talk to your ward or branch Temple and Family History Consultant if you need help getting started!
In his address to "stone cold sober" students at Brigham Young University, President Hinkley admonishes students to be leaders and stand up for truth rather than blending in with the crowd. Speak up for moral standards, stand up for integrity, and stand up for loyalty. Follow these principles and be an example of them to others. What can you do to stand up for truth in the world today?
https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/gordon-b-hinckley/stand-truth/
The Lord has established the Law of Tithing as a way to bring the blessings of heaven to his children. Elder Oaks teaches the principle of tithing and shares examples of the blessings that come when we obey the Law of Tithing. He goes on to share that some people say, “I can’t afford to pay tithing.” Those who place their faith in the Lord’s promises say, “I can’t afford not to pay tithing.” What blessings have you seen in your life as you have obeyed the Law of Tithing?
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1994/04/tithing?lang=eng
In his talk, Elder D. Todd Christofferson eloquently outlines God's Plan of Happiness and the role of marriage and family in accomplishing it.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/04/why-marriage-why-family?lang=eng
25 years ago President Gordon B. Hinkley taught us what the Lord needs us to do to further the work moving forward. It's exciting to see some of the things to spoke of fulfilled. He specifically spoke about keeping the sabbath day and strengthening the family. 25 years later these two topics have been emphasized more than ever. Is there something you can do to make your sabbath day more holy?
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1997/10/look-to-the-future?lang=eng
Sister Linda S. Reeves, former 2nd counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, teaches that our bodies are sacred gifts that are a vital part of Heavenly Father's plan for us and outlines how we should treat them. She contrasts the world's message of instant gratification with the Lord's plan and admonishes us to surround ourselves with things that invite the Spirit into our lives.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/10/worthy-of-our-promised-blessings?lang=eng
Isaiah referred to the Sabbath as a delight. However, sometimes we can go through the motions during our Sabbath observance, even treating certain Sabbath activities as a checklist that we need to get out of the way. In this talk President Nelson teaches ways in which the Sabbath is a gift to us and how we can make the Sabbath a delight in our lives. See if you can identify one change in your Sabbath day that will help you find more joy.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2015/04/the-sabbath-is-a-delight?lang=eng
As I sought input for talks to include on this list, the talk, "Beware of Pride" was mentioned repeatedly and is a fan favorite. In this talk, President Benson teaches about the nature of pride. Pride, at its core, is putting our will in competition with the Lord's will. It is especially dangerous because it can be subtle and difficult to recognize in our own lives. He sites many examples in the scriptures where pride was the downfall of individuals and nations. The antidote for pride is humility, a broken heart and a contrite spirit. It is aligning our will with the Lord's will. We can choose to be humble. Are there areas in your life where your will is not the Lord's will?
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1989/04/beware-of-pride?lang=eng
Often we read stories in the scriptures of people like Saul who sees the Lord while journeying on the road to Damascus and wish we could have a similar experience. However, most often, we come to know the Savior as we learn to hear our Savior's voice and time time to listen to it. As we seek to know the Lord's will and act on it, he will give us experiences, relationships, answers to prayers, and knowledge that, together, will create our road to Damascus.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2011/04/waiting-on-the-road-to-damascus?lang=eng
Elder Holland expounds upon the story in Mark 9:14-27 of the father of an afflicted child who comes to Jesus seeking for his son to be healed. The Lord says, "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth" to which the father responds with tears, "Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief." Through this story Elder Holland teaches us to hold fast to the faith we have and what we already know when questions come. Focusing on what you do know will help you stay strong until the answers to your questions do come. When doubts or questions come, ask for help from others and from God. As we do this throughout our life, our faith will grow.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2013/04/lord-i-believe?lang=eng
Elder Dallin H. Oaks teaches us that, in a world filled with demands that compete for our time, it is important to recognize what is most important. With so many good things out there it is important to prioritize the best things in our lives. Are there good things that are taking priority over the best things in your life?
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2007/10/good-better-best?lang=eng
This moving talk was Elder Bruce R. McConkie's final conference talk before his death. His declining health did not prevent him from sharing an impactful testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ. This was the first time that the words to "I Believe in Christ", written by Elder McConkie, were shared with the public. As you listen to Elder McConkie's testimony ponder your own testimony and the experiences you have had that have drawn you closer to our Savior.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1985/04/the-purifying-power-of-gethsemane?lang=eng
President Benson, prophet from 1985-1994, teaches us about the importance of the Book of Mormon in our lives. He teaches that the Book of Mormon is important to us because it is the keystone of our religion, was written for our day, and helps us draw nearer to God. This talk is where the phrase "Keystone of our religion" originated. In this talk, listen for ways that the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1986/10/the-book-of-mormon-keystone-of-our-religion?lang=eng
In this landmark talk, Brad Wilcox teaches about justice, mercy, grace, and our relationship with Jesus Christ. As you listen to this talk, consider who Christ is helping you become and the potential he sees in you.
"The grace of Christ is sufficient—sufficient to cover our debt, sufficient to transform us, and sufficient to help us as long as that transformation process takes."
https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/brad-wilcox/his-grace-is-sufficient/
"Momentum is a powerful concept. We all have experienced it in one form or another—for example, in a vehicle that picks up speed or with a disagreement that suddenly turns into an argument. What can ignite spiritual momentum? We have never needed positive spiritual momentum more than we do now, to counteract the speed with which evil and the darker signs of the times are intensifying."
President Nelson shares five things we can do to increase spiritual momentum in our lives.
1) Get on the covenant path and stay there
2) Discover the joy of daily repentance
3) Learn about God and how He works
4) Seek and expect miracles
5) End conflict in your personal life
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2022/04/47nelson?lang=eng