Welcome to September!
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September, Week 1
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 10.
2. Sometimes we are tempted to make wrong choices. Read verse 13 again. God promised that he will help us have a way to escape our temptations.
3. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Listen to the whole song.
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 10.
2. President James E. Faust of the First Presidency said:
One of the great myths in life is when [individuals] think they are invincible. Too many think that they are [made] of steel, strong enough to withstand any temptation. They delude themselves into thinking, ‘It cannot happen to me’.
(“It Can’t Happen to Me,” Ensign, May 2002, 46)
3. In what situations might people allow themselves to be exposed to temptation, thinking they are strong enough to withstand it? Paul referred to examples from Israelite history to warn the Corinthian Saints about temptation and sin. What are some things that the children of Israel experienced during the time of Moses that should have made them spiritually strong? (Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-5) Why did these experiences not make them spiritually stronger?
4. We may not always be able to avoid temptation. Because of this, we need to decide now how we will act in the face of temptation. President Spencer W. Kimball said,
Right decisions are easiest to make when we make them well in advance, having ultimate objectives in mind; this saves a lot of anguish [during moments of decision], when we’re tired and sorely tempted. …
Develop discipline of self so that, more and more, you do not have to decide and redecide what you will do when you are confronted with the same temptation time and time again. You only need to decide some things once! …
The time to quit evil ways is before they start. The secret of the good life is in protection and prevention. Those who yield to evil are usually those who have placed themselves in a vulnerable position.
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball [2006], 108–9)
5. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Listen to the whole song.
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 11.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery verse in this chapter, 1 Corinthians 11:11.
11 Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.
3. Men and women are equal in God’s eyes, but they are intended to work together as a team. Husbands and wives have different responsibilities in the family to help each other gain eternal life.
4. Listen to the song “When We’re Helping.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 11.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery verse in this chapter, 1 Corinthians 11:11.
11 Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.
3. Read 1 Corinthians 11:3. What did Paul teach about a husband’s responsibilities? In this verse the word translated as “man” can also be translated as “husband” and the word translated as “woman” can also be translated as “wife.” What is the role of a husband? (The phrase “the head of the woman is the man” means that the husband has the sacred responsibility of presiding in the home. To preside means to righteously lead and guide others in spiritual and temporal matters.)
4. Read the following statement by Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles:
Men and women are equal in God’s eyes and in the eyes of the Church, but equal does not mean they are the same. The responsibilities and divine gifts of men and women differ in their nature but not in their importance or influence. Our Church doctrine places women equal to and yet different from men. God does not regard either gender as better or more important than the other.
(“Men and Women in the Work of the Lord,” New Era, Apr. 2014, 4)
5. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:
By divine design, men and women are intended to progress together toward perfection and a fulness of glory. Because of their distinctive temperaments and capacities, males and females each bring to a marriage relationship unique perspectives and experiences. The man and the woman contribute differently but equally to a oneness and a unity that can be achieved in no other way. The man completes and perfects the woman and the woman completes and perfects the man as they learn from and mutually strengthen and bless each other.
(“Marriage Is Essential to His Eternal Plan,” Ensign, June 2006, 83–84)
Day 3
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 12.
2. Heavenly Father has given all His children spiritual gifts. Why is it important to know that you have gifts from Heavenly Father? Are your gifts the same as everyone else’s? Why does everyone have different gifts?
3. Listen to the song “A Child’s Prayer.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 12.
2. Paul wrote about the many gifts of the Spirit. He compared the Church to a physical body and explained that just as the body needs every part to function properly, each Church member can use the gifts of the Spirit to contribute to and strengthen the Church.
3. Read 1 Corinthians 12:8–11. How many gifts of the Spirit are listed? What are they? The spiritual gifts mentioned specifically in the scriptures are only a few of the numerous gifts we can receive through the Spirit. What other gifts could come to us through the Holy Ghost? What spiritual gifts have you noticed in your family members, friends, and classmates? We can ask Heavenly Father about them in prayer or receive our patriarchal blessings to learn about our spiritual gifts. How can our spiritual gifts be used for our good, or to benefit others?
4. As we use our unique spiritual gifts to serve others, we can strengthen the Church. President Gordon B. Hinckley said,
We are all in this great endeavor together. We are here to assist our Father in His work and His glory, ‘to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man’ (Moses 1:39). Your obligation is as serious in your sphere of responsibility as is my obligation in my sphere. No calling in this church is small or of little consequence. All of us in the pursuit of our duty touch the lives of others.
(“This Is the Work of the Master,” Ensign, May 1995, 71)
5. The gifts of the Spirit are so important to the Lord that they are taught about in three of our four standard works (see 1 Corinthians 12, Moroni 10, and Doctrine and Covenants 46). Elder Marvin J. Ashton of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught about spiritual gifts not listed specifically in the scriptures:
Taken at random, let me mention a few gifts that are not always evident or noteworthy but that are very important. …
Let us review some of these less-conspicuous gifts: the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost. (“There Are Many Gifts,” Ensign, Nov. 1987, 20).
6. Curious about your spiritual gifts? Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught how we can discover what spiritual gifts have been given to us:
To find the gifts we have been given, we must pray and fast. Often patriarchal blessings tell us the gifts we have received and declare the promise of gifts we can receive if we seek after them. I urge you each to discover your gifts and to seek after those that will bring direction to your life’s work and that will further the work of heaven.
(“Gifts of the Spirit,” Ensign, Feb. 2002, 16)
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 13.
2. The scriptures teach that charity is the “pure love of Christ.” What are some ways that Jesus showed love to others? How can we show Christlike love to the people around us?
3. Listen to the song “I Know That My Redeemer Lives.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 13.
2. Paul taught the importance of charity. He counseled the Corinthian Saints to obtain and follow after charity and seek other spiritual gifts.
3. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:
True charity … is shown perfectly and purely in Christ’s unfailing, ultimate, and atoning love for us. … It is that charity — his pure love for us — without which we would be nothing, hopeless, of all men and women most miserable. …
Life has its share of fears and failures. Sometimes things fall short. Sometimes people fail us, or economies or businesses or governments fail us. But one thing in time or eternity does not fail us — the pure love of Christ.
(Christ and the New Covenant [1997], 337)
4. As recorded in 1 Corinthians 13:4–5, Paul described various attributes of charity; in other words, people who have charity do the things and have the characteristics he described. The phrase “suffereth long” describes someone who endures trials patiently. “Envieth not” describes someone who is not jealous of others. “Vaunteth not itself” describes someone who is not boastful. “Not puffed up” describes the quality of being humble. “Doth not behave itself unseemly” describes someone who is not rude or inconsiderate. “Seeketh not her own” describes the quality of putting God and others before self. “Not easily provoked” describes someone who is not angered easily. “Believeth all things” describes someone who accepts all truth.
5. Elder Bruce C. Hafen of the Seventy taught the following about charity:
It is quite possible to render charitable — even ‘Christian’ — service without developing deeply ingrained and permanent Christlike character. Paul understood this when he warned against giving all one’s goods to feed the poor without true charity. … We can give without loving, but we cannot love without giving. If our vertical relationship with God is complete, then, by the fruit of that relationship, the horizontal relationship with our fellow beings will also be complete. We then act charitably toward others, not merely because we think we should, but because that is the way we are.
(The Broken Heart: Applying the Atonement to Life’s Experiences [1989], 196–97)
Week 2
Day 1
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-33.
2. Last week we talked about spiritual gifts. God has given everyone gifts, but sometimes they are different from person to person. In today’s chapter, Paul taught that we can seek after and strengthen our gifts.
3. Listen to the song “When We’re Helping.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-33.
2. Paul taught the importance of charity. He counseled the Corinthian Saints to obtain and follow after charity and seek other spiritual gifts. Paul also taught that the gift of prophecy is greater than the gift of tongues and is given to Church members so they can strengthen others spiritually.
3. Elder Robert J. Whetten of the Seventy explained:
Like faith, Christlike love is a gift of the Spirit, is granted upon the principles of personal righteousness and in accordance to our level of obedience to the laws upon which it is predicated. Like faith, love must be exercised to grow.
(“True Followers,” Ensign, May 1999, 30)
4. The gift of prophecy is more than just the ability to predict the future. Read the entry on prophecy in the Guide to the Scriptures.
5. Paul said that everyone should strive for the gift of prophecy, but that does not mean that everyone is a prophet. Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained the distinction between members of the Church who have the spiritual gift of prophecy and those called to serve in the prophetic office:
In the sense used in speaking of spiritual gifts, a prophet is one who testifies of Jesus Christ, teaches God’s word, and exhorts God’s people. In its scriptural sense, to prophesy means much more than to predict the future. …
It is important for us to understand the distinction between a prophet, who has the spiritual gift of prophecy, and the prophet, who has the prophetic office.
(“Spiritual Gifts,” Ensign, Sept. 1986, 71)
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-29.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s reading! 1 Corinthians 15:20-22. (There is a song you can listen to for this one!)
20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.
21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
3. Because Jesus was resurrected, we can be resurrected too, and go to live again with Heavenly Father. We can only go to live with Heavenly Father if we have been baptized, however. Many people died without the opportunity to be baptized, which if why we perform baptisms for the dead in our temples. When you are older, you can go to the temple and perform baptisms for the dead. Then those people will have the opportunity to decide for themselves whether they want to accept it or not.
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-29.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s reading! 1 Corinthians 15:20-22. (There is a song you can listen to for this one!)
20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.
21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.
22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
3. Paul learned that people in Corinth were teaching that there was no Resurrection of the dead. He testified to Church members in Corinth that Jesus Christ rose from the dead. Paul then further explained the doctrine of the Resurrection and its implications for all of Heavenly Father’s children. Paul mentioned that the ordinance of baptism for the dead would be meaningless without the Resurrection.
4. Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught how believing that Jesus Christ was resurrected means we can also have faith that we will be resurrected:
If Jesus was in fact literally resurrected, it necessarily follows that He is a divine being. No mere mortal has the power in himself to come to life again after dying. Because He was resurrected, Jesus cannot have been only a carpenter, a teacher, a rabbi, or a prophet. Because He was resurrected, Jesus had to have been a God, even the Only Begotten Son of the Father.
Therefore, what He taught is true; God cannot lie.
Therefore, He was the Creator of the earth, as He said.
Therefore, heaven and hell are real, as He taught.
Therefore, there is a world of spirits, which He visited after His death.
Therefore, He will come again, as the angels said, and ‘reign personally upon the earth.’
Therefore, there is a resurrection and a final judgment for all.
(“The Resurrection of Jesus Christ,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 113)
5. President Joseph Fielding Smith testified that all people will be resurrected:
No person who has lived and died on this earth will be denied the resurrection. Reason teaches this, and it is a simple matter of justice. Adam alone was responsible for death, and therefore the Lord does not lay this to the charge of any other person. Justice demands that no person who was not responsible for death shall be held responsible for it, and therefore, as Paul declared, ‘As in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive’.
(Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:274)
6. Verse 29 is an important one, as it explicitly states that the early Saints were performing baptisms for the dead. Paul asked why they would bother doing that if they had no faith that the dead would rise (be resurrected) in the future. Paul helped them see that we do ordinances for the dead with faith that Christ will raise us all to live again in the Resurrection.
Day 3
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 15:34-58.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s reading! 1 Corinthians 15:40-42. (There is a song you can listen to for this one!)
40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.
41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:
3. In these verses, Paul talks about the three degrees of glory (the glory of the sun, the moon, and the stars) and the three kingdoms (celestial, terrestrial, and telestial). After we are resurrected, we can go live with our families in the Celestial Kingdom with Heavenly Father.
4. Listen to the song “A Child’s Prayer.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 15:34-58.
2. There is a doctrinal mastery scripture in today’s reading! 1 Corinthians 15:40-42. (There is a song you can listen to for this one!)
40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.
41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:
3. Paul compared the glory of the sun, moon, and stars to the glory of resurrected bodies. President Joseph Fielding Smith explained how the various glories of resurrected bodies will differ from each other. “Celestial bodies,” refers ti those who obtain the highest degree of the celestial kingdom.
In the resurrection there will be different kinds of bodies; they will not all be alike. The body a man receives will determine his place hereafter. There will be celestial bodies, terrestrial bodies, and telestial bodies. …
… Some will gain celestial bodies with all the powers of exaltation and eternal increase. These bodies will shine like the sun as our Savior’s does. … Those who enter the terrestrial kingdom will have terrestrial bodies, and they will not shine like the sun, but they will be more glorious than the bodies of those who receive the telestial glory.
(Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:286, 287)
4. In 1 Corinthians 15:51 we read that Paul said he would show the Corinthian Saints a mystery related to the Resurrection. Years earlier, while writing to the Saints in Thessalonica, Paul had taught that when the Resurrection of the dead occurs at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, all of the faithful then living on earth will be “caught up … to meet the Lord in the air.” Paul added another detail to his description of events related to the Second Coming that is recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:52. Paul taught that those who are alive when Jesus Christ returns will continue to live mortal lives but will not “sleep” (1 Corinthians 15:51) in the grave when they die during the Millennium. Instead, they will be resurrected quickly, “in the twinkling of an eye” (1 Corinthians 15:52). (See also D&C 63:50–51.)
5. Elder Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that the Resurrection of Jesus Christ can help remove the sting of physical death and suffering:
The gift of immortality to all mankind through the reality of the Resurrection is so powerful a promise that our rejoicing in these great and generous gifts should drown out any sorrow, assuage any grief, conquer any mood, dissolve any despair, and tame any tragedy.
(“All Hell Is Moved” [Brigham Young University devotional, Nov. 8, 1977], 7, speeches.byu.edu)
President Ezra Taft Benson testified of the reality of the Resurrection and our need to prepare for it:
The literal resurrection of every soul who has lived and died on earth is a certainty, and surely one should make careful preparation for this event. A glorious resurrection should be the goal of every man and woman, for resurrection will be a reality.
(“The Meaning of Easter,” Ensign, Apr. 1992, 2)
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 1 Corinthians 16.
2. Paul instructed the Corinthian Saints to help care for the poor in Jerusalem, “stand fast in the faith” (verse 13), and do all things “with charity” (verse 14). What does it mean to stand fast in the faith? It means not to be shaken from the things that we know are true.
3. Listen to the song “I Know That My Redeemer Lives.”
Youth
1. Read 1 Corinthians 16.
2. Listening to the Lord’s appointed servants and holding to the simple truths they repeatedly teach can help us find peace and “stand fast in the faith” (1 Corinthians 16:13). What does it mean to stand fast in the faith? Imagine that you drew a circle on the ground and stood inside it. Now, imagine that all your friends are trying to push you out of the circle. Sometimes it can be difficult to stand where we know we should when the influence of the world is all around us.
3. Watch the video “Stay in the Boat.”
Week 3
Day 1
Primary
1. Today read 2 Corinthians 4.
2. In verse 2, Paul writes that he has “renounced the hidden things of dishonesty.” How can we increase our desire to be honest in all things? Why is it important to be honest?
3. Read the story “Score One for Honesty.”
4. Listen to the song “Books in the New Testament.” Make sure you can sing it through 2 Corinthians!
Youth
1. Today read 2 Corinthians 4.
2. In his letter to the Saints in Corinth, Paul taught that the trials and afflictions of this life are temporary and small compared to the blessings of eternity.
3. First, look at this picture. What is happening in it? What does the person who is being pushed think of the person who is pushing him? Next, look at this picture. How does getting a wider view change your opinion of what is happening in the picture?
4. Sometimes when we have trials and troubles, we have difficulty seeing the bigger picture. Paul wrote to the Corinthian Saints to help them see the larger context of their tribulations. Our trials and afflictions in this life are small compared to the everlasting blessings and growth that come as we faithfully endure them. Because temporary afflictions can bring about eternal growth and glory, we need not despair in times of trouble. There is eternal purpose in our afflictions, even when we cannot see it in mortality.
5. During a difficult time, George A. Smith, First Counselor to Brigham Young, received counsel from his cousin the Prophet Joseph Smith that was similar to Paul’s teachings to the Corinthian Saints:
He told me I should never get discouraged, whatever difficulties might surround me. If I was sunk in the lowest pit of Nova Scotia and all the Rocky Mountains piled on top of me, I ought not to be discouraged but hang on, exercise faith, and keep up good courage and I should come out on the top of the heap at last.
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith [2007], 235)
6. Elder Paul V. Johnson of the Seventy used Paul’s words to help us put our mortal afflictions into an eternal perspective:
The Apostle Paul taught, ‘For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory’ [2 Corinthians 4:17]. It is interesting that Paul uses the term ‘light affliction.’ This comes from a person who was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, imprisoned, and who experienced many other trials [see 2 Corinthians 11:23–28]. I doubt many of us would label our afflictions light. Yet in comparison to the blessings and growth we ultimately receive, both in this life and in eternity, our afflictions truly are light.
(“More Than Conquerors through Him That Loved Us,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2011, 79)
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 2 Corinthians 2.
2. It can be hard to forgive others when they are unkind to us. But we will experience love, peace, and happiness as we learn to forgive.
3. Read the story “Learning to Forgive.”
4. Listen to the song “When We’re Helping.”
Youth
1. Read 2 Corinthians 2.
2. Forgiving others can be very difficult. Paul wrote to the Corinthian Saints about forgiving a transgressor in their community. Paul invited them to forgive, both for the good of the person being forgiven as well as for their own benefit.
3. Through the Savior Jesus Christ, we can forgive and reach out in love to others and if we do not forgive others, Satan will have an advantage over us. Forgiving others does not mean that the sinner should not be held accountable for his or her actions. Nor does it mean putting ourselves in situations in which people can continue to mistreat us. Rather, forgiving others means treating with love those who have mistreated us and harboring no resentment or anger toward them. We are commanded to forgive all men.
4. Elder Kevin R. Duncan of the Seventy said:
I am convinced that most of us want to forgive, but we find it very hard to do. When we have experienced an injustice, we may be quick to say, “That person did wrong. They deserve punishment. Where is the justice?” We mistakenly think that if we forgive, somehow justice will not be served and punishments will be avoided.
This simply is not the case. God will mete out a punishment that is fair, for mercy cannot rob justice (see Alma 42:25). God lovingly assures you and me: “Leave judgment alone with me, for it is mine and I will repay. [But let] peace be with you. [ Doctrine and Covenants 82:23 ]
(Kevin R. Duncan, “The Healing Ointment of Forgiveness,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 33–34)
Day 3
Primary
1. Today read 2 Corinthians 5.
2. Sometimes, we do not see the blessings of keeping the commandments right away. Instead, we have to “walk by faith.” (2 Corinthians 5:6-7) When we have faith in Heavenly Father and keep his commandments, we can be sure we are going the right way.
3. Listen to the song “A Child’s Prayer.”
Youth
1. Today read 2 Corinthians 5.
2. Paul said that though in mortality we are separated from God and will eventually die, we will be resurrected and live again. Read 2 Corinthians 5:6-7. What did Paul teach the Saints they should do, knowing they were separated from God in mortality? Because we are separated from God in mortality, we are to walk by faith and not by sight.
3. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can become new creatures and be reconciled to God. What do you think it means to become “a new creature”? (verse 17).
4. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained how we can become new creatures.
The essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ entails a fundamental and permanent change in our very nature made possible through the Savior’s Atonement. True conversion brings a change in one’s beliefs, heart, and life to accept and conform to the will of God (see Acts 3:19; 3 Nephi 9:20) and includes a conscious commitment to become a disciple of Christ.
… As we honor the ordinances and covenants of salvation and exaltation (see D&C 20:25), ‘press forward with a steadfastness in Christ’ (2 Nephi 31:20), and endure in faith to the end (see D&C 14:7), we become new creatures in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:17)
(“Converted unto the Lord,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2012, 107)
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 2 Corinthians 7.
2. In 2 Corinthians 7:8–10, Paul referred to a letter he had previously written to the Saints, boldly warning them about their sins. Why was Paul glad that the Saints were sorrowful? Sometimes when we do something wrong, we are sad or upset when we get caught, or because we get in trouble. Other times, we are sad because we know what we did was wrong. This kind of sorrow is called godly sorrow. How can feeling godly sorrow help us to make better choices?
3. Listen to the song “I Know That My Redeemer Lives.”
Youth
1. Read 2 Corinthians 7.
2. In 2 Corinthians 7:8–10, Paul referred to a letter he had previously written to the Saints, boldly warning them about their sins. Why was Paul glad that the Saints were sorrowful?
3. President Ezra Taft Benson explained the meaning of the term “worldly sorrow”:
It is not uncommon to find men and women in the world who feel remorse for the things they do wrong. Sometimes this is because their actions cause them or loved ones great sorrow and misery. Sometimes their sorrow is caused because they are caught and punished for their actions. Such worldly feelings do not constitute ‘godly sorrow’.
(Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Ezra Taft Benson [2014], 82)
4. Worldly sorrow can lead us to spiritual death, or separation from God, but Godly sorrow leads us to repent of our sins and receive salvation. President Ezra Taft Benson said:
Godly sorrow is a gift of the Spirit. It is a deep realization that our actions have offended our Father and our God. It is the sharp and keen awareness that our behavior caused the Savior, He who knew no sin, even the greatest of all, to endure agony and suffering. Our sins caused Him to bleed at every pore. This very real mental and spiritual anguish is what the scriptures refer to as having ‘a broken heart and a contrite spirit.’ … Such a spirit is the absolute prerequisite for true repentance.
(Teachings: Ezra Taft Benson, 83)
5. As we feel godly sorrow rather than worldly sorrow for our sins, we will be able to truly repent, be cleansed of our sins, and ultimately receive salvation.
Week 4
Day 1
Primary
1. Today read 2 Corinthians 8.
2. Paul told the Corinthian Saints that Church members in Macedonia had given generously to help the poor. Paul explained that the Macedonian members did so because they wanted to do the will of God. There are always people in need, and as we follow the Savior, we can think of ways to help them.
3. Listen to the song “When We’re Helping.”
Youth
1. Today read 2 Corinthians 8.
2.
Down through history, poverty has been one of humankind’s greatest and most widespread challenges. Its obvious toll is usually physical, but the spiritual and emotional damage it can bring may be even more debilitating.
– Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (from “Are We Not All Beggars?” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2014, 40)
3. Paul told the Corinthian Saints that Church members in Macedonia had given generously to help the poor in their temporal needs. Paul explained that the Macedonian members did so because they desired to do the will of God. He encouraged the Saints of Corinth to follow this example of providing for the needs of others out of sincere love.
4. Read 2 Corinthians 8:9. In what ways was Jesus Christ rich in the premortal life? In what ways might He have been considered poor during His time in mortality? What do you think it means that we “through [the Savior’s] poverty might be rich”? (Because Jesus Christ condescended from His premortal throne and came to earth to minister, set an example for us, and perform the Atonement, we can gain the riches of eternal life.)
5. In a general priesthood session, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First Presidency shared the following statement, which applies equally to both men and women:
This very hour there are many members of the Church who are suffering. They are hungry, stretched financially, and struggling with all manner of physical, emotional, and spiritual distress. They pray with all the energy of their souls for succor, for relief.
Brethren, please do not think that this is someone else’s responsibility. It is mine, and it is yours. We are all enlisted. ‘All’ means all — every Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood holder, rich and poor, in every nation. In the Lord’s plan, there is something everyone can contribute.
(“Providing in the Lord’s Way,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2011, 54)
6. As we come to understand all the Savior has given us, we will be more willing to give of our substance to others. God wants us to be willing to give even when we may not have anything to give.
Day 2
Primary
1. Read 2 Corinthians 9.
2. It is always good to serve others, but it is even better to serve cheerfully. What do you think it means to be “a cheerful giver?”
3. Read the story “The Last Present.”
Youth
1. Read 2 Corinthians 9.
2. Have you ever given something to someone or provided a service for someone in a grudging manner? Why is it sometimes hard to be cheerful about giving your time, money, or other resources to help others?
3. Paul taught that if we give to those in need with a cheerful heart, God will generously bless us. How can giving to others with a cheerful attitude actually lead to our receiving more than we began with?
4. As we come to understand all that the Savior has done for us, we will be more willing to give to others. Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained how the generosity of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ can change us.
Each of us has received gifts that we could not provide for ourselves, gifts from our Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son, including redemption through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. We have received life in this world; we will receive physical life in the hereafter, and eternal salvation and exaltation — if we choose it — all because of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Every time we use, benefit from, or even think of these gifts, we ought to consider the sacrifice, generosity, and compassion of the givers. Reverence for the givers does more than just make us grateful. Reflecting on Their gifts can and should transform us.
(Dale G. Renlund, “Consider the Goodness and Greatness of God,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2020, 42)
Day 3
Primary
1. Read 2 Corinthians 12.
2. Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” was a trial, something difficult in his life. Even though Paul asked God to remove the trial, God did not. Instead, God taught Paul that challenges can help us learn to be humble and trust Him. Then God can make us strong. Can you think of a trial in your life you wish was gone? How can faithfully enduring our trials help us?
3. Listen to the song “A Child’s Prayer.”
Youth
1. Read 2 Corinthians 12.
2. Paul used the concept of a thorn to symbolize a trial or weakness he experienced. Read the following statement by Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Ask the class to listen and consider what kinds of trials or weaknesses they or their loved ones have experienced:
Some have lost a loved one to death or care for one who is disabled. Some have been wounded by divorce. … Others have crippling physical or mental impairments. Some are challenged by same-gender attraction. Some have terrible feelings of depression or inadequacy. In one way or another, many are heavy laden.
(“He Heals the Heavy Laden,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2006, 6)
3. Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles drew from his personal experience with physical challenges to explain how the Savior’s grace can make us strong in weakness:
In the past two years, I have waited upon the Lord for mortal lessons to be taught me through periods of physical pain, mental anguish, and pondering. I learned that constant, intense pain is a great consecrating purifier that humbles us and draws us closer to God’s Spirit. If we listen and obey, we will be guided by His Spirit and do His will in our daily endeavors.
There were times when I have asked a few direct questions in my prayers, such as, ‘What lessons dost Thou want me to learn from these experiences?’
As I studied the scriptures during this critical period of my life, the veil was thin and answers were given to me as they were recorded in lives of others who had gone through even more severe trials. …
On a few occasions, I told the Lord that I had surely learned the lessons to be taught and that it wouldn’t be necessary for me to endure any more suffering. Such entreaties seemed to be of no avail, for it was made clear to me that this purifying process of testing was to be endured in the Lord’s time and in the Lord’s own way. It is one thing to teach, ‘Thy will be done’ (Matt. 26:42). It is another to live it. I also learned that I would not be left alone to meet these trials and tribulations but that guardian angels would attend me. …
The experiences of the last two years have made me stronger in spirit and have given me courage to testify more boldly to the world the deep feelings of my heart. (“The Covenant of Baptism: To Be in the Kingdom and of the Kingdom,” Ensign, Nov. 2000, 6)
Day 4
Primary
1. Read 2 Corinthians 13.
2. Generally, to criticize someone means to judge them negatively, pointing out their faults or mistakes. In the scriptures, criticism may be referred to as evil speaking or murmuring against someone. It is possible to recognize faults or weaknesses in others without being critical. We are being critical when we speak or write about others in a judgmental or negative way. How can we deal with others’ weaknesses in a Christlike way?
3. Listen to the song “I Know That My Redeemer Lives.”
Youth
1. Read 2 Corinthians 13.
2. Generally, to criticize someone means to judge them negatively, pointing out their faults or mistakes. In the scriptures, criticism may be referred to as evil speaking or murmuring against someone. It is possible to recognize faults or weaknesses in others without being critical. We are being critical when we speak or write about others in a judgmental or negative way. How can we deal with others’ weaknesses in a Christlike way?
3. Read 2 Corinthians 13:3. What were some Church members in Corinth seeking proof of from Paul? The demand of these people to see proof that Paul was truly speaking for Christ may be evidence that people were publicly criticizing him. Read the following statement by President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency, looking for how criticizing our leaders can affect us.
President George Q. Cannon gave a warning that I pass on to you as my own. I believe he spoke the truth: “… No man … can speak evil of the Lord’s anointed and find fault with God’s authority on the earth without incurring His displeasure. The Holy Spirit will withdraw himself from such a man, and he will go into darkness. This being the case, do you not see how important it is that we should be careful?
(Henry B. Eyring, “The Power of Sustaining Faith,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 59)
4. Rather than criticizing Church leaders, we should examine our faithfulness to the Lord. President Eyring stated the following about our attitude toward those whom the Lord calls to serve.
It takes faith to believe that [Jesus Christ] knows the people He calls perfectly, both their capacities and their potential, and so makes no mistakes in His calls.
That may bring a smile or a shake of the head to some in this audience — both those who think their own call to serve might have been a mistake as well as those who picture some they know who seem poorly suited to their place in the Lord’s kingdom. My counsel to both groups is to delay such judgments until you can better see what the Lord sees. The judgment you need to make, instead, is that you have the capacity to receive revelation and to act on it fearlessly.
(Henry B. Eyring, “The Lord Leads His Church,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2017, 82)
5. Is it all right to have questions? President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, then of the First Presidency, taught:
Is it all right to have questions about the Church or its doctrine? My dear young friends, we are a question-asking people … because we know that inquiry leads to truth. …
… Some might feel embarrassed or unworthy because they have searching questions regarding the gospel, but they needn’t feel that way. Asking questions isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a precursor of growth. …
Fear not; ask questions. Be curious, but doubt not! Always hold fast to faith and to the light you have already received. Because we see imperfectly in mortality. Not everything is going to make sense right now.
(Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “The Reflection in the Water” [Church Educational System devotional for young adults, Nov. 1, 2009], broadcasts.ChurchofJesusChrist.org)
