Elder David A. Bednar (Oct. '21): "With the Power of God in Great Glory"

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 To me, Elder Bednar is an interesting speaker in way that is somewhat unique.  I find that I can often find connections between what Elder Bednar says in one conference and what he has spoken on in other conferences.  These connections are not always in the sense that he builds on the same topics (although there is some of that).  Instead, it is almost as if, he expects us to have learned what he has already spoken on to help us see deeper into what he says in his current talk.  For example, as I allude to in this activity, Elder Bednar has previously spoken on being able to see the blessings that we receive and that it often takes spiritually sensitive eyes (for example, see his talk here).

The Activity:

  1. Provide paper and something to write with to everyone in the class.  You may also want to make available something like clipboards so that everyone can have something to write on.
  2. Read par. 18-20 "I invite you . . . of the Lord."
  3. [Optional] read one or two of the examples of these blessings that Elder Bednar shares.
  4. Point out that (as Elder Bednar has taught in other conferences) sometimes blessings from our Heavenly Father are only recognizable with our spiritual eyes and by taking some time to see ponder and remember.
  5. Ask the class members to consider times in their lives that they have been blessed with "the power of God in great glory."  Allow them a few moments of silence to think about and remember these times.
  6. After this time, invite the class members to record that experience on the paper that you have provided for them
  7. Afterwards, invite them to share that account in an appropriate way.  They may decide to post it to the memories section of their family search page, to share it in their next Family Home Evening, to mail it to someone who would benefit from reading it, or to put it in their journal (or in any way that makes sense for them).   

Using the Activity:

We often overlook writing in our classes for a variety of reasons.  It certainly takes up a bunch of time.  However, it is important that we record our lives and especially our spiritual experiences.  We need to have a way to review those experiences (especially in trying times) and it is important for those in our families to know that we have had these experiences (especially in their trying times).  So, taking time to write things down is time well spent, even if it can't be part of every lesson.  Also, it is important that we share those experiences with our loved ones.  In my 50+ years, I have become convinced that often we have spiritual experiences that yes, help us, but more importantly are provided to help others to find Christ (see II Ne. 25:23).  

God bless you in your efforts to teach with power and authority.  

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