Pres. Henry B. Eyring (Oct. 18): "Try, Try, Try"

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Pres. Eyring says that he wishes "to encourage [us] in the troubles [we] face."  To that end, he teaches us a pattern for facing these troubles and overcoming them.  The activity I describe here is really designed for the end of class, when people have felt and are feeling the Spirit.

The Activity:

  1. At the beginning of class, pass out an index card to each class member and make sure that they all have something to write with.
  2. Explain that this card is for them to write down any promptings they may have during the lesson and will also be used near the end of the lesson today.
  3. Teach the lesson as you have prepared to do so.
  4. After discussing the talk, read aloud para. 36 "Brothers and sisters . . . will be strengthened."
  5. Ask the class members to silently pray and ponder for just a moment about whom the Lord would have them reach out to-- with whom they are to share God's love.  Point out that some people may already have had a name or names come to mind.  Others may not have anyone come to mind even during this time.  Those people will receive a name with a bit more thought and prayer.  Whatever the situation, it is okay.
  6. After an appropriate time, ask them to make further note of any specific thoughts about how they should reach out to the person or persons on their list.
  7. Commit everyone to act on this talk this week by either following the promptings that they received or by seeking further for inspiration on who to reach out to and how to do so.
  8. Bear testimony that this is how Father works-- by directing us who to see and what to do and by using us as His hands.  And that as we do so, we will find our own peace, comfort, and love.
Using the Activity:

We are told to liken the scriptures unto ourselves (I Ne. 19:23) and that the words of the prophets during conference are scripture.  We are also told that the best way to get a testimony of a principle is to apply it (John 7:17).  This activity is designed to help class members do this-- to apply the principles in this talk to themselves and their lives.  As a result, their testimonies of Father's love and the role of living prophets will be strengthened.  

One part that might be difficult is to simply let the class be silent for a few moments.  We are programmed to make noise it seems and we don't want to be quiet.  However, the Spirit is a "small voice"  (III Ne. 11:3; Hel. 5:30; I Ne. 17:45 among others).  So, by living with silence for a bit, we make it easier for everyone to hear the Spirit.  Even if it is uncomfortable, then, rest with it a moment.  One way to make this easier is to have your own notecard and use this time to seek your own inspiration (although some of you will no doubtedly do this beforehand).  Doing this reinforces the importance of what you are asking them to do.

I hope that this activity brings the Spirit into your classes in a mighty way.  The gospel and the Church are true.  May you be blessed for your efforts.  

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