I know this isn't technically a General Conference talk, it's from the General Relief Society Meeting, but it IS in the Conference Ensign, so we're going to count it.
We Never Walk Alone
by President Thomas S. Monson
"Wherever you are in life, there are times when all of us have challenges and struggles. Although they are different for each, they are common for all. . . There will be times when you will walk a path strewn with thorns and marked by struggle. There may be times when you feel detached---even isolated---from the Giver of every good gift. You worry that you walk alone. Fear replaces faith."
When we go through times like this, President Monson admonishes us to:
1. Pray
"When you find yourself in such circumstances, I plead with you to remember prayer. . .We were not placed on this earth to walk alone. What an amazing source of power, of strength, and of comfort is available to each of us. He who knows us better than we know ourselves. He who sees the larger picture and who knows the end from the beginning, has assured us that He will be there for us to provide help is we but ask."
2. Study the Scriptures
"Allied with prayer in helping us cope in our difficult world is scripture study. . . As we read and ponder the scriptures, we will experience the sweet whisperings of the Spirit to our souls. We can find answers to our questions. We learn of the blessings which come through keeping God's commandments. We gain a sure testimony of our Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ, and Their love for us."
Several Months ago, my family was trying to adjust to a "rough patch" in our lives. My sweet parents secretly placed the following sign on everyone's bathroom mirror. It says:
Remember. . .
- You are a good person. . .
- You are an AWESOME parent (or son or daughter)
- Heavenly Father loves you and is mindful of you. . .
- Your family loves you. . .
- You WILL make it through today with a smile on your face. . .
"You are doing the best you can, and that best results in good to yourself and to others. Do not nag yourself with a sense of failure. Get on your knees and ask for the blessings of the Lord; then stand on your feet and do what you are asked to do." -President Gordon B. Hinckley
"Things work out, it isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. 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. If we will put our trust in him, if we will pray to him, if we will live worthy of his blessings, he will hear our prayers." - President Gordon B. Hinckley
When I heard this talk by President Monson, I thought of this sign. Heavenly Father is very aware of us, of our needs, and our desires. He is there for us, and most importantly He loves us.
"Your Heavenly Father loves you--each of you. That love never changes. It is not influenced by your appearance, by your possessions, or by the amount of money in your bank account. It is not changed by your talents and abilities. It is simply there. It is there for you when you are sad or happy, discouraged or hopeful. God's love is there for you whether or not you feel you deserve love. It is simply always there."
- What part of this talk stood out to you?
- How do you cope when life gets hard?
- What helps you to feel Heavenly Father's love for you?
Next Week's Talk:
Hastening the Lord's Game Plan!
by Elder S. Gifford Nielsen