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October, Week 1
Day 1
Primary
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 109: 1-42.
2. The Saints worked for nearly three years to build the Kirtland Temple, the first temple built in this dispensation. Doctrine and Covenants 109 is the dedicatory prayer revealed by the Lord to the Prophet Joseph Smith. This prayer contains blessings we can receive today.
3. President Russell M. Nelson testified:
[The temple] is His house. It is filled with His power. Let us never lose sight of what the Lord is doing for us now. … I promise that increased time in the temple will bless your life in ways nothing else can. (Russell M. Nelson, “Focus on the Temple,” Liahona, Nov. 2022, 121)
4. Watch the video “The Kirtland Temple is Dedicated.”
Youth
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 109: 1-42.
2. The Saints worked for nearly three years to build the Kirtland Temple, the first temple built in this dispensation. Doctrine and Covenants 109 is the dedicatory prayer revealed by the Lord to the Prophet Joseph Smith. This prayer contains blessings we can receive today.
3. President Russell M. Nelson testified:
[The temple] is His house. It is filled with His power. Let us never lose sight of what the Lord is doing for us now. … I promise that increased time in the temple will bless your life in ways nothing else can. (Russell M. Nelson, “Focus on the Temple,” Liahona, Nov. 2022, 121)
4. How can temple attendance help me in everyday life? Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles testified:
We do not come to the temple to hide from or escape the evils of the world. Rather, we come to the temple to conquer the world of evil. As we invite into our lives the “power of godliness” [Doctrine and Covenants 84:20–21] by receiving priesthood ordinances and making and keeping sacred covenants, we are blessed with strength beyond our own to overcome the temptations and challenges of mortality and to do and become good. (David A. Bednar, “Let This House Be Built unto My Name,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 86)
5. . What does it mean to “hold a name and standing” in the temple? Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
The process of taking upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ that is commenced in the waters of baptism is continued and enlarged in the house of the Lord. As we stand in the waters of baptism, we look to the temple. As we partake of the sacrament, we look to the temple. We pledge to always remember the Savior and to keep His commandments as preparation to participate in the sacred ordinances of the temple and receive the highest blessings available through the name and by the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ. Thus, in the ordinances of the holy temple we more completely and fully take upon us the name of Jesus Christ. (David A. Bednar, “Honorably Hold a Name and Standing,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2009, 98)
Day 2
Primary
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 110.
2. Why do you think the Lord wants us to strive to keep the commandments in order to come closer to Him in the temple? What does it mean to you to be clean or worthy before the Lord? Brother Bradley R. Wilcox of the Young Men General Presidency taught:
God’s message is that worthiness is not flawlessness. Worthiness is being honest and trying. We must be honest with God, priesthood leaders, and others who love us, and we must strive to keep God’s commandments and never give up just because we slip up. …
… Remember change is possible, repentance is a process, and worthiness is not flawlessness. Most important, remember that God and Christ are willing to help us right here and now. …
… Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf has said: “God does not need people who are flawless. He seeks those who will offer their ‘heart and a willing mind’ [Doctrine and Covenants 64:34], and He will make them ‘perfect in Christ’ [Moroni 10:32–33].” (Bradley R. Wilcox, “Worthiness Is Not Flawlessness,” Liahona, Nov 2021, 62, 67)
3. After the vision of Jesus Christ in the Kirtland Temple on April 3, 1836, “the heavens were again opened” (Doctrine and Covenants 110:11) to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Three ancient prophets appeared and committed essential priesthood keys to them.
4. Why was what happened in the Kirtland Temple so significant? The Savior promised the early Saints tremendous blessings for their labor and sacrifice to construct a temple in Kirtland, Ohio. Those blessings included the keys and powers restored on April 3, 1836. Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained:
The Kirtland Temple, both in location and size, was relatively obscure. But in terms of its enormous significance to mankind, it was eternity-shaping. Ancient prophets restored priesthood keys for the eternal saving ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This resulted in overwhelming joy for faithful members.
These keys provide the “power from on high” [Doctrine and Covenants 38:38] for divinely appointed responsibilities that constitute the primary purpose of the Church. (Quentin L. Cook, “Prepare to Meet God,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 114)
Youth
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 110.
2. Why do you think the Lord wants us to strive to keep the commandments in order to come closer to Him in the temple? What does it mean to you to be clean or worthy before the Lord? Brother Bradley R. Wilcox of the Young Men General Presidency taught:
God’s message is that worthiness is not flawlessness. Worthiness is being honest and trying. We must be honest with God, priesthood leaders, and others who love us, and we must strive to keep God’s commandments and never give up just because we slip up. …
… Remember change is possible, repentance is a process, and worthiness is not flawlessness. Most important, remember that God and Christ are willing to help us right here and now. …
… Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf has said: “God does not need people who are flawless. He seeks those who will offer their ‘heart and a willing mind’ [Doctrine and Covenants 64:34], and He will make them ‘perfect in Christ’ [Moroni 10:32–33].” (Bradley R. Wilcox, “Worthiness Is Not Flawlessness,” Liahona, Nov 2021, 62, 67)
3. After the vision of Jesus Christ in the Kirtland Temple on April 3, 1836, “the heavens were again opened” (Doctrine and Covenants 110:11) to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Three ancient prophets appeared and committed essential priesthood keys to them.
4. Why was what happened in the Kirtland Temple so significant? The Savior promised the early Saints tremendous blessings for their labor and sacrifice to construct a temple in Kirtland, Ohio. Those blessings included the keys and powers restored on April 3, 1836. Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained:
The Kirtland Temple, both in location and size, was relatively obscure. But in terms of its enormous significance to mankind, it was eternity-shaping. Ancient prophets restored priesthood keys for the eternal saving ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This resulted in overwhelming joy for faithful members.
These keys provide the “power from on high” [Doctrine and Covenants 38:38] for divinely appointed responsibilities that constitute the primary purpose of the Church. (Quentin L. Cook, “Prepare to Meet God,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 114)
Week 2
Day 1
Primary
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 111.
2. By 1836, the Church was deep in debt due to the costs of building the Kirtland Temple and of purchasing lands in Ohio and Missouri. At the same time, the Saints in Clay County, Missouri, were being forced to relocate. In late July 1836, with these concerns weighing heavily on their minds, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and Sidney Rigdon traveled more than 600 miles (965 kilometers) from Kirtland, Ohio, to Salem, Massachusetts. While the reason for their trip is not certain, they may have been acting on information they thought could help them relieve the debt of the Church. One account states that a Church member had told Joseph Smith about a house in Salem in which was hidden a large amount of money.
3. President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) gave a highly relatable testimony:
It all works out. Don’t worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. (“Latter-day Counsel: Excerpts from Addresses of President Gordon B. Hinckley,” Ensign, Oct. 2000, 73)
4. What can we learn from this?
Youth
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 111.
2. By 1836, the Church was deep in debt due to the costs of building the Kirtland Temple and of purchasing lands in Ohio and Missouri. At the same time, the Saints in Clay County, Missouri, were being forced to relocate. In late July 1836, with these concerns weighing heavily on their minds, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and Sidney Rigdon traveled more than 600 miles (965 kilometers) from Kirtland, Ohio, to Salem, Massachusetts. While the reason for their trip is not certain, they may have been acting on information they thought could help them relieve the debt of the Church. One account states that a Church member had told Joseph Smith about a house in Salem in which was hidden a large amount of money.
3. President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008) gave a highly relatable testimony:
It all works out. Don’t worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. If you do your best, it will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. (“Latter-day Counsel: Excerpts from Addresses of President Gordon B. Hinckley,” Ensign, Oct. 2000, 73)
4. The Lord’s acknowledgement of these Church leaders’ mistakes helps clarify the distinction between making mistakes and committing sin. President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency acknowledged that we all make mistakes and taught that our mistakes can help us progress:
Mistakes are inevitable in the process of growth in mortality. To avoid all possibility of error is to avoid all possibility of growth. In the parable of the talents, the Savior told of a servant who was so anxious to minimize the risk of loss through a mistaken investment that he hid up his talent and did nothing with it. That servant was condemned by his master (see Matt. 25:24–30).
If we are willing to be corrected for our mistakes, … innocent mistakes can be a source of growth and progress. (Dallin H. Oaks, “Sins and Mistakes,” Ensign, Oct. 1996, 67)
5. What else can I do so that God will “order all things for [my] good”? President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, then of the First Presidency, testified:
Those who heed the inner call and seek God, those who pray, believe, and walk the path the Savior has prepared—even if they stumble along the path at times—receive the consoling assurance that “all things shall work together for [their] good” (Doctrine and Covenants 90:24). (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “A Yearning for Home,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 22)
6. Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles declared:
All things can work together for our good when we are “sanctified in Christ … in the covenant of the Father” [Moroni 10:33]. Every good and promised blessing comes to those who remain faithful to the end. The “happy state of those that keep the commandments of God” is to be “blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual,” and to “dwell with God in … never-ending happiness” [Mosiah 2:41]. (Gerrit W. Gong, “Covenant Belonging,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 81)
Day 2
Primary
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 112.
2. In 1837, Thomas B. Marsh was serving as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. A spirit of apostasy and fault-finding had developed among some of the Kirtland Saints, including some members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. In January of 1837, Church leaders organized a bank called the Kirtland Safety Society. Facing a variety of challenges, including a nationwide financial crisis, the bank ultimately failed, intensifying the outcry against the Prophet Joseph Smith. Concerned about these dissensions, Thomas B. Marsh left his home in Missouri and traveled to Kirtland, determined to meet with the Twelve and show support for Joseph. However, upon his arrival, President Marsh learned that Joseph had sent two members of the Twelve to England on missions. As quorum president, President Marsh was upset that Joseph had not first sought his counsel. Nevertheless, Thomas B. Marsh visited Joseph Smith to seek direction from the Lord.
3. How do think humility helps us receive answers to our prayers? Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
I believe, brothers and sisters, that only those who are humble are able to acknowledge and understand the Lord’s answers to their prayers. The humble are teachable, recognizing how dependent they are on God and desiring to be subject to His will. The humble are meek and have the ability to influence others to be the same. God’s promise to the humble is that He will lead them by the hand. I truly believe that we will avoid detours and sadness in our lives as long as we walk hand in hand with the Lord. (Ulisses Soares, “Be Meek and Lowly of Heart,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 10)
4. How is the Savior an example of humility? President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, then a member of the First Presidency, taught:
In all things, Jesus Christ is our perfect example. Whereas Lucifer tried to change the Father’s plan of salvation and obtain honor for himself, the Savior said, “Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever” [Moses 4:1–2]. Despite His magnificent abilities and accomplishments, the Savior was always meek and humble. (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Pride and the Priesthood,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 57)
Youth
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 112.
2. In 1837, Thomas B. Marsh was serving as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. A spirit of apostasy and fault-finding had developed among some of the Kirtland Saints, including some members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. In January of 1837, Church leaders organized a bank called the Kirtland Safety Society. Facing a variety of challenges, including a nationwide financial crisis, the bank ultimately failed, intensifying the outcry against the Prophet Joseph Smith. Concerned about these dissensions, Thomas B. Marsh left his home in Missouri and traveled to Kirtland, determined to meet with the Twelve and show support for Joseph. However, upon his arrival, President Marsh learned that Joseph had sent two members of the Twelve to England on missions. As quorum president, President Marsh was upset that Joseph had not first sought his counsel. Nevertheless, Thomas B. Marsh visited Joseph Smith to seek direction from the Lord.
3. How do think humility helps us receive answers to our prayers? Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
I believe, brothers and sisters, that only those who are humble are able to acknowledge and understand the Lord’s answers to their prayers. The humble are teachable, recognizing how dependent they are on God and desiring to be subject to His will. The humble are meek and have the ability to influence others to be the same. God’s promise to the humble is that He will lead them by the hand. I truly believe that we will avoid detours and sadness in our lives as long as we walk hand in hand with the Lord. (Ulisses Soares, “Be Meek and Lowly of Heart,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 10)
4. How is the Savior an example of humility? President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, then a member of the First Presidency, taught:
In all things, Jesus Christ is our perfect example. Whereas Lucifer tried to change the Father’s plan of salvation and obtain honor for himself, the Savior said, “Father, thy will be done, and the glory be thine forever” [Moses 4:1–2]. Despite His magnificent abilities and accomplishments, the Savior was always meek and humble. (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Pride and the Priesthood,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 57)
Week 3
Day 1
Primary
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 115.
2. To escape persecution in Jackson County, Missouri, thousands of Saints gathered about 50 miles (80 km) north and created a new settlement called Far West. In a revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in Far West, the Lord revealed that His Church should be called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
3. President Russell M. Nelson discussed the importance of using the correct name of the Lord’s Church:
The name of the Church is not negotiable. When the Savior clearly states what the name of His Church should be and even precedes His declaration with, “Thus shall my church be called,” He is serious. …
My dear brothers and sisters, I promise you that if we will do our best to restore the correct name of the Lord’s Church, He whose Church this is will pour down His power and blessings upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints, the likes of which we have never seen. We will have the knowledge and power of God to help us take the blessings of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people and to prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord. (Russell M. Nelson, “The Correct Name of the Church,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 87, 89)
4. What can we learn about the Church from its name? President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
I have thought a lot about why the Savior gave the nine-word name to His restored Church. It may seem long, but if we think of it as a descriptive overview of what the Church is, it suddenly becomes wonderfully brief, candid, and straightforward. How could any description be more direct and clear and yet expressed in such few words?
Every word is clarifying and indispensable. The word The indicates the unique position of the restored Church among the religions of the world.
The words Church of Jesus Christ declare that it is His Church. …
Of Latter-day explains that it is the same Church as the Church that Jesus Christ established during His mortal ministry but restored in these latter days. …
Saints … simply refers to those who seek to make their lives holy by covenanting to follow Christ. (M. Russell Ballard, “The Importance of a Name,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 80)
Youth
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 115.
2. To escape persecution in Jackson County, Missouri, thousands of Saints gathered about 50 miles (80 km) north and created a new settlement called Far West. In a revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in Far West, the Lord revealed that His Church should be called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
3. President Russell M. Nelson discussed the importance of using the correct name of the Lord’s Church:
The name of the Church is not negotiable. When the Savior clearly states what the name of His Church should be and even precedes His declaration with, “Thus shall my church be called,” He is serious. …
My dear brothers and sisters, I promise you that if we will do our best to restore the correct name of the Lord’s Church, He whose Church this is will pour down His power and blessings upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints, the likes of which we have never seen. We will have the knowledge and power of God to help us take the blessings of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people and to prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord. (Russell M. Nelson, “The Correct Name of the Church,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 87, 89)
4. What can we learn about the Church from its name? President M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
I have thought a lot about why the Savior gave the nine-word name to His restored Church. It may seem long, but if we think of it as a descriptive overview of what the Church is, it suddenly becomes wonderfully brief, candid, and straightforward. How could any description be more direct and clear and yet expressed in such few words?
Every word is clarifying and indispensable. The word The indicates the unique position of the restored Church among the religions of the world.
The words Church of Jesus Christ declare that it is His Church. …
Of Latter-day explains that it is the same Church as the Church that Jesus Christ established during His mortal ministry but restored in these latter days. …
Saints … simply refers to those who seek to make their lives holy by covenanting to follow Christ. (M. Russell Ballard, “The Importance of a Name,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 80)
Day 2
Primary
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 116.
2. Take a look at the pictures.
3. Read about Adam-ondi-ahman.
Youth
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 116.
2. Take a look at the pictures.
3. Read about Adam-ondi-ahman.
Day 3
Primary
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 119.
2. By July 1838, the Church was under enormous financial strain. Still, Church members had been instructed to relocate to northern Missouri and build a temple in Far West. The Prophet Joseph Smith met with other Church leaders to consider how to be obedient to the Lord’s commands. In response to their prayerful petition, the Savior provided counsel about the law of tithing.
3. President Steven J. Lund, Young Men General President, taught:
When youth pay a full tithe, they form a link with Heavenly Father that remains. Every time they obey that commandment and make that payment, a new bond of sacrifice and connection is created. (Steven J. Lund, “Seminary, Institute, and Other Things that Work” [address given at the Seminary & Institute annual training broadcast, Jan. 27, 2023], broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org)
4. While serving as a member of the Seventy, Elder Stanley G. Ellis asked:
Do we have the faith to trust [the Lord’s] promises regarding tithing that with 90 percent of our increase plus the Lord’s help, we are better off than with 100 percent on our own? (Stanley G. Ellis, “Do We Trust Him? Hard Is Good,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 114)
5. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
Often as we teach and testify about the law of tithing, we emphasize the immediate, dramatic, and readily recognizable temporal blessings that we receive. And surely such blessings do occur. Yet some of the diverse blessings we obtain as we are obedient to this commandment are significant but subtle. …
For example, a subtle but significant blessing we receive is the spiritual gift of gratitude that enables our appreciation for what we have to constrain desires for what we want. …
Sometimes we may ask God for success, and He gives us physical and mental stamina. We might plead for prosperity, and we receive enlarged perspective and increased patience. (David A. Bednar, “The Windows of Heaven,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 17–18)
Youth
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 119.
2. By July 1838, the Church was under enormous financial strain. Still, Church members had been instructed to relocate to northern Missouri and build a temple in Far West. The Prophet Joseph Smith met with other Church leaders to consider how to be obedient to the Lord’s commands. In response to their prayerful petition, the Savior provided counsel about the law of tithing.
3. President Steven J. Lund, Young Men General President, taught:
When youth pay a full tithe, they form a link with Heavenly Father that remains. Every time they obey that commandment and make that payment, a new bond of sacrifice and connection is created. (Steven J. Lund, “Seminary, Institute, and Other Things that Work” [address given at the Seminary & Institute annual training broadcast, Jan. 27, 2023], broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org)
4. While serving as a member of the Seventy, Elder Stanley G. Ellis asked:
Do we have the faith to trust [the Lord’s] promises regarding tithing that with 90 percent of our increase plus the Lord’s help, we are better off than with 100 percent on our own? (Stanley G. Ellis, “Do We Trust Him? Hard Is Good,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 114)
5. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
Often as we teach and testify about the law of tithing, we emphasize the immediate, dramatic, and readily recognizable temporal blessings that we receive. And surely such blessings do occur. Yet some of the diverse blessings we obtain as we are obedient to this commandment are significant but subtle. …
For example, a subtle but significant blessing we receive is the spiritual gift of gratitude that enables our appreciation for what we have to constrain desires for what we want. …
Sometimes we may ask God for success, and He gives us physical and mental stamina. We might plead for prosperity, and we receive enlarged perspective and increased patience. (David A. Bednar, “The Windows of Heaven,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2013, 17–18)
Week 4
Day 1
Primary
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 121.
2. There is a Doctrinal Mastery scripture in this chapter, Doctrine and Covenants 121:36, 41-42.
36 That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
41 No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
42 By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile
3. Amid the trying circumstances of Liberty Jail, the Lord taught the Prophet Joseph Smith how to access the powers of heaven through principles of righteousness. How can you increase your access to the powers of heaven? Sister Camille N. Johnson, Relief Society General President, explained:
[Priesthood] power comes from personal righteousness” (Topics and Questions, “Priesthood”). It is available to members of the Church who make covenants at baptism and in the house of the Lord and who keep them. President Nelson taught during November 2019 general conference, “Every woman and every man who makes covenants with God and keeps those covenants, and who participates worthily in priesthood ordinances, has direct access to the power of God” (“Spiritual Treasures,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 77). Through personal righteousness we invite God’s priesthood power to flow into our lives. (“President Camille N. Johnson: What must women and men do to have access to priesthood power?,” Church News, Oct. 30, 2022)
Youth
1. Today, read Doctrine and Covenants 121.
2. There is a Doctrinal Mastery scripture in this chapter, Doctrine and Covenants 121:36, 41-42.
36 That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
41 No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
42 By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile
3. Molly was recently called to serve in her class presidency. She wants to help the young women in her class but is unsure how to do so. What advice would you give Molly if she asked you for counsel? After asking the young women’s president for advice, the president texted the following statement to Molly and counseled her to ponder how it applies to helping those she has been called to serve.
You cannot lift another soul until you are standing on higher ground than he is. (Harold B. Lee, “Stand Ye in Holy Places,” Ensign, July 1973, 123)
How do you think this statement applies to Molly’s desire to help the young women in her class?
4. Read the following statement by President Russell M. Nelson.
We know what will give us greater access to the powers of heaven. We also know what will hinder our progress—what we need to stop doing to increase our access to the powers of heaven. (Russell M. Nelson, “We Can Do Better and Be Better,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 68)
5. How can I increase my access to the powers of heaven? Sister Camille N. Johnson, Relief Society General President, explained:
[Priesthood] power comes from personal righteousness” (Topics and Questions, “Priesthood”). It is available to members of the Church who make covenants at baptism and in the house of the Lord and who keep them. President Nelson taught during November 2019 general conference, “Every woman and every man who makes covenants with God and keeps those covenants, and who participates worthily in priesthood ordinances, has direct access to the power of God” (“Spiritual Treasures,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 77). Through personal righteousness we invite God’s priesthood power to flow into our lives. (“President Camille N. Johnson: What must women and men do to have access to priesthood power?,” Church News, Oct. 30, 2022)
Day 2
Primary
1. The bottom level of the jail in Liberty, Missouri, was known as “the dungeon.” The walls were thick, the stone floor was cold and filthy, food was scarce and rotten, and the two narrow, iron-barred windows near the ceiling allowed for very little light. This is where Joseph Smith and a few others spent four frigid months during the winter of 1838–39. During this time, Joseph was constantly receiving news about the suffering of the Saints. The peace and optimism felt in Far West had lasted only a few months, and now the Saints were without a home once again, driven into the wilderness in search of yet another place to start over—this time with their Prophet in prison. And yet, even in that miserable jail, “knowledge from heaven” came “pouring down” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:33). Joseph’s question “O God, where art thou?” was answered clearly and powerfully: “Fear not … , for God shall be with you forever and ever.”
2. Watch the video “Liberty Jail.”
3. When we or people we love are suffering, it is normal to wonder if God is aware of us. Read Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–6 and think about times when you have had questions or feelings similar to Joseph Smith’s. What do you find in the Lord’s response that might help you when you have these questions or feelings? For example, in verses 7–10, notice the blessings He promises. What do you think it means to “endure … well”? How does the Savior help you do this?
Youth
1. The bottom level of the jail in Liberty, Missouri, was known as “the dungeon.” The walls were thick, the stone floor was cold and filthy, food was scarce and rotten, and the two narrow, iron-barred windows near the ceiling allowed for very little light. This is where Joseph Smith and a few others spent four frigid months during the winter of 1838–39. During this time, Joseph was constantly receiving news about the suffering of the Saints. The peace and optimism felt in Far West had lasted only a few months, and now the Saints were without a home once again, driven into the wilderness in search of yet another place to start over—this time with their Prophet in prison. And yet, even in that miserable jail, “knowledge from heaven” came “pouring down” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:33). Joseph’s question “O God, where art thou?” was answered clearly and powerfully: “Fear not … , for God shall be with you forever and ever.”
2. When we or people we love are suffering, it is normal to wonder if God is aware of us. Read Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–6 and think about times when you have had questions or feelings similar to Joseph Smith’s. What do you find in the Lord’s response that might help you when you have these questions or feelings? For example, in verses 7–10, notice the blessings He promises. What do you think it means to “endure … well”? How does the Savior help you do this?
3. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
The lessons of the winter of 1838–39 teach us that every experience can become a redemptive experience if we remain bonded to our Father in Heaven through it. These difficult lessons teach us that man’s extremity is God’s opportunity, and if we will be humble and faithful, if we will be believing and not curse God for our problems, He can turn the unfair and inhumane and debilitating prisons of our lives into … a circumstance that can bring comfort and revelation, divine companionship and peace. (Jeffrey R. Holland, “Lessons from Liberty Jail,” Ensign, Sept. 2009, 28)
Day 3
Primary
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 122.
2. While the Prophet Joseph Smith was suffering in Liberty Jail, God taught him that though his suffering was deep and painful, it would help him become more Christlike. Because of Jesus Christ, even difficult experiences can help us progress and become more like Him.
3.
What is required for rough rocks to become smooth or polished? Rocks can become polished by rubbing against and colliding with other rocks or sand over an extended period. This process (called “tumbling”) smooths their edges and reveals their deeper, natural colors.
4. The Prophet Joseph Smith shared the following about himself:
I am like a huge rough stone rolling down from a high mountain, and the only polishing I get, is when some corner gets rubbed off by coming in contact with something else striking with accelerated force … ; … knocking off a corner here and a corner there; thus, I will become a smooth and polished shaft in the quiver of the Almighty. (Joseph Smith, in History, 1838–1856 [Manuscript History of the Church], volume D-1, 1556, josephsmithpapers.org)
Youth
1. Today read Doctrine and Covenants 122.
2. While the Prophet Joseph Smith was suffering in Liberty Jail, God taught him that though his suffering was deep and painful, it would help him become more Christlike. Because of Jesus Christ, even difficult experiences can help us progress and become more like Him.
3.
What is required for rough rocks to become smooth or polished? Rocks can become polished by rubbing against and colliding with other rocks or sand over an extended period. This process (called “tumbling”) smooths their edges and reveals their deeper, natural colors.
4. The Prophet Joseph Smith shared the following about himself:
I am like a huge rough stone rolling down from a high mountain, and the only polishing I get, is when some corner gets rubbed off by coming in contact with something else striking with accelerated force … ; … knocking off a corner here and a corner there; thus, I will become a smooth and polished shaft in the quiver of the Almighty. (Joseph Smith, in History, 1838–1856 [Manuscript History of the Church], volume D-1, 1556, josephsmithpapers.org)
5. How can we benefit from all of our sufferings? Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught:
My brothers and sisters, it is my promise to you that increasing your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ will bring you added strength and greater hope. For you, the righteous, the Healer of our souls, in His time and His way, will heal all your wounds. No injustice, no persecution, no trial, no sadness, no heartache, no suffering, no wound—however deep, however wide, however painful—will be excluded from the comfort, peace, and lasting hope of Him whose open arms and whose wounded hands will welcome us back into His presence. At that day, the Apostle John testifies, the righteous “which [come] out of great tribulation” [Revelation 7:14] will stand “arrayed in white robes … before the throne of God.” The Lamb will “dwell among [us] … and God shall wipe away all tears from [your] eyes” [see Revelation 7:13, 15, 17]. This day will come. I so witness in the name of Jesus Christ. (Neil L. Andersen, “Wounded,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 86)
6. Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:
Brothers and sisters, I believe that one day, each of you will look back at the canceled events, the sadness, the disappointments, and the loneliness attendant to the challenging times we are passing through to see them overshadowed by choice blessings and increased faith and testimonies. I believe that in this life, and in the life to come, your afflictions, … your Liberty Jail, will be consecrated for your gain. I pray that, along with Nephi, we can acknowledge the afflictions in the course of our days while at the same time recognizing that we are highly favored of the Lord.
… Jesus Christ … Himself was no stranger to affliction and as part of His infinite Atonement descended below all things. He understands our grief, pain, and desperation. He is our Savior, our Redeemer, our hope, our consolation, and our Deliverer. (Gary E. Stevenson, “Highly Favored of the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 105)
Day 4
Primary
1. Read Doctrine and Covenants 123.
2. In Doctrine and Covenants 123:7–8, Joseph Smith referred to false beliefs that led to suffering, including the persecution of the Saints. In March 1839, it may have seemed that there wasn’t much the Saints could do about that. But in his letters written from Liberty Jail, Joseph told them what they could do: “[gather] up a knowledge of all the facts” and “stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 123:1, 17). As you consider the problems in the world today, think about ways to address them that “lie in [your] power” (verses 12, 17). And don’t overlook the seemingly “small things” (verse 15). Why is it important to do these things “cheerfully”? (verse 17).
3. Many of the accounts that Joseph asked for in this letter were submitted to the government and published as an 11-part series in a Nauvoo newspaper, the Times and Seasons (see “A History, of the Persecution, of the Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter Day Saints in Missouri, December 1839–October 1840,” [josephsmithpapers.org]).
4. The rudder of a ship is very small, but it is able to steer the entire vessel. Just like this, in our life, small changes can have a big impact.
Youth
1. Read Doctrine and Covenants 123.
2. In Doctrine and Covenants 123:7–8, Joseph Smith referred to false beliefs that led to suffering, including the persecution of the Saints. In March 1839, it may have seemed that there wasn’t much the Saints could do about that. But in his letters written from Liberty Jail, Joseph told them what they could do: “[gather] up a knowledge of all the facts” and “stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God” (Doctrine and Covenants 123:1, 17). As you consider the problems in the world today, think about ways to address them that “lie in [your] power” (verses 12, 17). And don’t overlook the seemingly “small things” (verse 15). Why is it important to do these things “cheerfully”? (verse 17).
3. Many of the accounts that Joseph asked for in this letter were submitted to the government and published as an 11-part series in a Nauvoo newspaper, the Times and Seasons (see “A History, of the Persecution, of the Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter Day Saints in Missouri, December 1839–October 1840,” [josephsmithpapers.org]).
4. Read what Elder Gong had to say about “cheerfully” doing the things that are in our power.
