Mosiah 6

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

1. Why is it important to be recorded as a covenant maker? How much more important is it to be recorded as a covenant keeper?

2. When you fully understand the blessing covenants can be in your life, will you ever deny an opportunity to make and keep covenants with your father in heaven? How can you strengthen your commitment to keep your covenant with God?

3. What did King Benjamin do to help his people remember the covenants they had made?

"If we pay close attention to the uses of the word remember in the holy scriptures, we will recognize that remembering in the way God intends is a fundamental and saving principle of the gospel. This is so because prophetic admonitions to remember are frequently calls to action: to listen, to see, to do, to obey, to repent. When we remember in God’s way, we overcome our human tendency simply to gird for the battle of life and actually engage in the battle itself, doing all in our power to resist temptation and avoid sinning." - Marlin K Jensen, GC, April 2007

4. Who began to rain following King Benjamin?

6-7. What kind of King was Mosiah? How do you know? What would be different in your day if King Mosiah ruled your land? What are some traits that Mosiah possessed that you should try to emulate in your family? How with these traits help you have more peace in your family?

Mosiah 5

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

As we choose to follow the Master, we choose to be changed. As we exercise faith in Jesus Christ and receive the Holy Spirit, we can experience a mighty change of heart. You take upon your self the name of Jesus Christ through sacred covenants. The Lord has the power to change you so that the things you are commanded to do you are also the things you love to do.

1. Why do you think King Benjamin wanted to know if the people believed his words? What opportunities are you given to indicate to your leaders and teachers that you have received the words which they have taught?

2. Have you ever wished you could change something about yourself? What did you do about it? What does it mean to say a person has changed for the better? What might cause a person to change? Do you think it would be easier to notice a change in another person or in your self? Why? What would it be like to be so converted that you have no desire to send? How much easier would it be to live the commandments if you had no more disposition to do evil but to do good continually?

"God has created man with a mind capable of instruction, and a faculty which may be enlarged in proportion to the heed and diligence given to the light communicated from heaven to the intellect… The nearer man approaches perfection, the clearer are his views, and the greater his enjoyments, till he has overcome the evil's of his life and lost every desire for sin." – Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 2:8

"Christ says, Give me All. I don't want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want You. I have not come to torment your natural self, but to kill it. No half measures are any good. I don't want to cut off a branch here and a branch there, I want to have the whole tree down… Hand over the whole natural self, all the desires which you think innocent as well as the ones you think wicked, the whole outfit. I will give you a new self instead. In fact, I will give you Myself: my own will shall become yours." -CS Lewis, Mere Christianity, 167

2. How did the people receive the words of King Benjamin? How did they know without doubt that he had spoken the truth to them? What happened to their hearts? How did the people feel about evil? How did they feel about good works? What do you think it means to experience a mighty change of heart? Has the Spirit wrought a mighty change in your heart? What indications do you have that He has? How often do you seek to do good?

“The essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ entails a fundamental and permanent change in our very nature made possible through our reliance upon ‘the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah’ (2 Nephi 2:8). As we choose to follow the Master, we choose to be changed—to be spiritually reborn” - David A Bednar, GC, April 2007

“The gospel of Jesus Christ encompasses much more than avoiding, overcoming, and being cleansed from sin and the bad influences in our lives; it also essentially entails doing good, being good, and becoming better. … To have our hearts changed by the Holy Spirit such that ‘we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually’ (Mosiah 5:2), as did King Benjamin’s people, is the covenant responsibility we have accepted. This mighty change is not simply the result of working harder or developing greater individual discipline. Rather, it is the consequence of a fundamental change in our desires, our motives, and our natures made possible through the Atonement of Christ the Lord. Our spiritual purpose is to overcome both sin and the desire to sin” - David A Bednar, GC, October 2007

"Heavenly Father… has provided a way to rise higher – almost beyond our limits of imagination – not by our own powers alone, which would not be nearly enough, but through the power of the Atonement of his Son, Jesus Christ."  – Henry B Eyring, CES fireside, September 6, 1996

3. How does the influence of the Holy Ghost heighten your awareness of your surroundings and ideas? How does the Spirit help you and guide you as you make choices and decisions so that the things you do are harmonious with the will of God?

4. How do the words of the prophets and church leaders help you receive great knowledge? In what ways do you think you choose to change when you choose to follow Jesus Christ? When you choose to follow Jesus Christ, why do you need to change your dispositions and not just your behavior? Why do you think that the Atonement of Jesus Christ is necessary for a change to occur within you? What can you do to exercise more faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ? What specific things can you do, starting today, to exercise more faith so that you can encourage and maintain a mighty change of heart in your life?

5. What effect did the change of heart have on the people? What level of commitment did King Benjamin's people feel toward making and keeping a covenant with God? What promises did King Benjamin's people make as they entered into a covenant? How can you submit your will to that of your Father in Heaven? What phrases in this verse remind you of the promises you renew each time you partake of the sacrament?

6-7. What covenant did King Benjamin's people make? How do you become a son or daughter of Christ? Have you taken his name upon you? How do you think making and keeping covenants help you maintain a mighty change of heart?

"When we make covenants with God, he determines the conditions for the covenants, and we agree to the conditions. God then promises are certain blessings for our obedience. Making evidence is one way we show the Lord we are sincere in our desire to serve him." – Book of Mormon Study Guide for Home-study Seminary Students, 114

7. Why are we called children of Christ? What blessing did King Benjamin's people of team because of their covenant?

"Christ became a father to us because he gave us in mortality or eternal life through his death and sacrifice upon the cross." – Joseph Fielding Smith, Answers to Gospel Questions, 4:178-79

8-15. What does it mean to take upon you the name of Christ? How often do you take upon yourself the name of Christ? What promises are made to covenant keepers? How do your covenants Johlke you to Jesus Christ? What is the value of being bound to or yoked to Jesus Christ? What kinds of Burtons does Christ help you carry that are too much for you to bear alone? What advantages might this real covenant relationship bring, if you begin to stray away from Christ?

"Through baptism we take on ourselves the name of Christ and promised to do the things that He would do, including obeying God's Commandments. In return, the Lord promises to send His spirit to guide, strengthen, and comfort us. Perhaps most importantly, He also promises to forgive us of our sins for which we truly repent. In a very literal way, those who go down into the waters of baptism  have their sins washed away. They emerge from the baptismal font as sin-free and clean as the day they were born." – M Russell Ballard, Our Search for Happiness 1993, 90

"Some wonder if they were baptized too soon. If only they could be baptized now and have a clean start. But that is not necessary! Through the ordinance of the sacrament, you renew the covenants made at baptism. When you meet all of the conditions of repentance, however difficult, you may be forgiven and your transgressions will trouble your minds no more." – Boyd K Packer, GC, April 1997

8. Through whom do you become free? What are you free from? How does obedience to God's law bring you true freedom? Whose name did King Benjamin's people take upon them as part of their covenant?

9. What reward is in store for the faithful and obedient who indoor in this way throughout their lives? Why do you want to be found on the right hand of God?

9. Why is it more important to find out whose you are rather than who you are? Will you be called by the name of Christ and belong to Him? What can you do to further your progress in becoming His?

10. Where do those who will not take upon themselves the name of God find themselves? Who dwells on the left hand of God?

11. Whose name should you carry in your heart? How does carrying the name of Christ within your heart, everywhere you go, affect your choices and actions? What are some blessings of having the name of Jesus Christ written in your heart? How do you feel when you think about having the name of Jesus Christ written in your heart? Why do you want to keep his name and never lose it?

12. How can you come to hear and know the voice by which you will be called on the day of judgment? How does retaining a remembrance of Christ and seeking to emulate Christlike qualities in your life help you retain that name written upon your heart?

13. Who is your master? How does any leaving the savior who is your master, prevent you from being a stranger to him? As you come to know the Savior what kinds of thoughts and intents will be in your heart?

14. When the neighbors cattle get into a farmers fields, how does the farmer treat them? Why don't those cows being there? Can you belong feeding in the green pastures of Christ if you do not know the name by which you are called?

15. What does it mean to be steadfast and immovable? What does the word abound mean? Why are you to always abound in good works? What does it mean to be sealed to Christ? What is the ultimate blessing to those who choose to be bound to Jesus Christ?

"Why face life's burdens alone, Christ asks, or why face them with temporal support that will quickly falter? To the heavy laden, Christ's yoke gives the power and peace of standing side-by-side with a God who will provide the support, balance, and the strength to meet our challenges and endure our tasks here in the hard-pan field of mortality." – Howard W Hunter, That we Might Have Joy, 13-14

Mosiah 4

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

The power of the Atonement can turn all your fears into joy. As you exercise faith in Jesus Christ and sincerely repent, you receive a remission of your sins. This repentance is an important element in obtaining joy and peace of conscience. If you humble yourself before God and strive to develop Christlike attributes, you can retain a remission of your sins. The Lord has a profound love for you. As you repent of any wrongdoings and do your best to follow the Savior's example, you can retain a remission of your sins. As you learn to control your thoughts, you will reap the blessing of being more Christlike in your words and actions.

1-8. How do you know if you have been forgiven of a particular sin? Do you feel peace of conscience when you think about having repented of your sin? Are you filled with joy?

"When you have fully repented, you feel an inner peace. You know somehow you are forgiven because the burden you have carried for so long, all of a sudden isn't there anymore. It is GONE and YOU KNOW it is gone." -F Burton Howard, GC, April 1983

1. How do you feel about standing before the Lord to be judged? What can you do to stand before Him with greater confidence than you feel now? How will changing your life to emulate Christ bless you not only at the time of judgement, but also each and every day of the rest of your life?

2. How do you apply the atoning blood of Jesus Christ in your life? How is your heart purified? In what way does your faith and testimony of Christ assist you?

1-2. The people of King Benjamin were forgiven because of the 'exceeding faith which they had in Jesus Christ'. What actions recorded in these verses demonstrated their faith? What attitudes and feelings should you have that would be similar to those of the people of Mosiah?
3. According to this verse, what results from exercising faith in Jesus Christ and repenting of our sins? How valuable are these blessings? What would you be willing to do to have them in your life?

3. By what power were the people cleansed from sin and purified? What effect does the Spirit of the Lord have upon you? What does it feel like to be filled with joy? Why do you suppose that receiving a remission of your sins fills your soul with joy? How can you exercise your faith in Jesus Christ as you seek a remission of your sins?

4. How do you think the response of the people to the words King Benjamin taught, influenced what he said from this point on?

5.Why do you suppose that a knowledge of God's goodness brings you to an awareness of what King Benjamin calls 'your nothingness'? What does King Benjamin mean by the words 'nothingness' and 'worthless'? How does this awareness help you to be humble enough to apply the atonement in your life?

6. What do you need to do, according to King Benjamin, to gain salvation? In what ways are you trying to put your trust in the Lord? How can you be more diligent in keeping the commandments? What commandment can you improve upon at this time in your life? How can you continue in the faith even unto the end of your life?

7-8. How important is the atonement in the attainment of salvation? Do you have a testimony of the Atonement of Christ?  How grateful are you for this great gift?

“A convert is one who has put off the natural man, yielded to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and become ‘a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord.’ Such a person has become ‘as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.’ (Mosiah 3:19.) He has become a new creature of the Holy Ghost: the old creature has been converted or changed into a new one. He has been born again: where once he was spiritually dead, he has been regenerated to a state of spiritual life. (Mosiah 27:24–29.) In real conversion, which is essential to salvation (Matt. 18:3), the convert not only changes his beliefs, casting off the false traditions of the past and accepting the beauties of revealed religion, but he changes his whole way of life, and the nature and structure of his very being is quickened and changed by the power of the Holy Ghost.” -Dallin H Oaks, (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols. [1966–73], 1:770

9-30. How do the actions described by King Benjamin show that someone is striving to retain a remission of his or her sins? Can you list a few other actions that would show someone is striving to retain a remission of sins? What is one or more ways in which you have given succor to those in need?

9. What things do we need to BELIEVE? How do these things help you feel a deeper, more exquisite feeling of gratitude to your Father in Heaven? How might knowing that God created all things and has all power and wisdom help motivate you to repent?

10. Why is it important to BELIEVE that you must repent? What happens to those who do not believe that they need to repent? Why is it important to act on your belief in Christ and your convictions of the truthfulness of His gospel?

11. What is a retainer? What is it's purpose? How can you ensure that you ALWAYS retain a remembrance of the greatness of God? How does remembering God help you to RETAIN a remission of your sins? How does it help you RETAIN a feeling of gratitude toward your Father in Heaven? How does it help you to be humble? How often should you call upon the name of the Lord in prayer? What does the word 'steadfastly' mean? Why do you think it is important to understand and remember God's power, goodness and love? When you remember these things, how do they affect your life?

12. How can doing the things mentioned in verse 11 help you be filled with the love of God even to rejoicing? How does this attitude of rejoicing and praising God help you to RETAIN a remission of your sins?

13. How does RETAINING a remission of your sins bless your life and the lives of those you know and associate with? How does it affect your feelings toward them? What do you think it would be like to have everyone in a community living peaceably together?

14. How does the knowledge of God's goodness affect how parents treat their children? 

14-15. What responsibility do parents have toward their children? What does it mean to you to be taught and teach others to walk in the ways of truth and soberness? How does love and service assist parents in teaching their children? How does engaging children in opportunities to develop and cultivate love and service bless the lives of all?

16-23. In what ways are we all beggars? To whom do you beg or pray for blessings? How does God respond to your petitions? What would your life be like if God withheld His blessings? How might the teachings of King Benjamin change the way you deal with those in need in the future?

16. How does the love of God in your heart help you to feel towards all those who are less fortunate than yourself?

17. What justifications do we sometimes make for withholding our substance from others?

18. Why does one who justifies his selfishness have need of repentance?

19. Who do you depend upon for your sustenance? Who is the source of all your wealth and worldly possessions? Why is it important to recognize God in ALL aspects of your life? How does doing so help you to be more generous with His less fortunate children? What is one blessing you could thank your Heavenly Father for at this moment?

20. What do you petition God for? How does He respond to your petitions? When have you felt your heart filled with joy so great that you were at a loss for the words to express it? Have you thanked your Father in Heaven for that gift?

21. How generous is the Lord with you in your life? What blessings has he bestowed upon your head? When you ask for blessings do you expect to receive them? How does imparting of your substance convey to the Lord your desire to be blessed and supported by Him?

22-23. What reward is given to the man that judges another?

24-25. How should the poor feel toward the beggar? What can you do to cultivate an attitude of selflessness? How can you more effectively avoid coveting your own wealth and blessings?

"Just as we will be accountable for our evil desires, we will also be rewarded for our righteous ones. Our Father in Heaven will receive a truly righteous desire as a substitute for actions that are genuinely impossible. My father-in-law was fond of expressing his version of this principle. When someone wanted to do something for him but was prevented by circumstances, he would say: ‘Thank you. I will take the good will for the deed.’... This principle means that when we have done all that we can, our desires will carry us the rest of the way. It also means that if our desires are right, we can be forgiven for the unintended errors or mistakes we will inevitably make as we try to carry those desires into effect. What a comfort for our feelings of inadequacy!” -Dallin H Oaks, Pure in Heart [1988], 59

26-27. How should you treat those who ask you for help? How can remembering King Benjamin's teavhings help you to be more compassionate to those who are in spiritual or temporal need?

26. What actions does the Lord require of us in order for us to retain a remission of our sins? How do you spiritually impart of your substance? What can you do to uplift and strengthen those you meet as well as close friends and family members who might be discouraged?

27. What does it mean that you should not run faster than you have strength? How is the Kingdom of God a Kingdom of order? In what way can being consistent in doing good daily, fulfill the requisite the Lord places upon you?

28. What should you do when you borrow something from another?

29. If there are diverse ways to commit sin, how do you recognize if you have committed sin? What do you have to guide and help you along?

30. What is the relationship between you thoughts, your words and your deeds? Which of these is the hardest for you to control? What can you do to better control your thoughts, words, and deeds? Why is it vital to watch and guard your thoughts? How does guarding your thoughts help you in guarding your words? In what way does guarding your thoughts and words help you avoid committing regrettable actions? What is so important for you to remember that will keep you from perishing in the last day?

“Think clean thoughts. Those who think clean thoughts do not do dirty deeds. You are not only responsible before God for your acts but also for controlling your thoughts. … The old adage is still true that you sow thoughts and you reap acts, you sow acts and you reap habits, you sow habits and you reap a character, and your character determines your eternal destiny. ‘As a man thinketh, so is he.’ (See Prov. 23:7.)" - Ezra Taft Benson, GC, October 1964

 “Some people have an idea that because they have entered the waters of baptism and repented of their sins then that is an end of it. What a mistake! We need to have this spirit of repentance continually; we need to pray to God to show us our conduct every day. Every night before we retire to rest we should review the thoughts, words and acts of the day and then repent of everything we have done that is wrong or that has grieved the Holy Spirit. Live this way every day and endeavor to progress every day. We may indulge in many things that are not right, indulge in wrong thoughts, be actuated by wrong motives, may have wrong objects in view. … Therefore, we need to repent every day and every hour, every one of us” - George Q Cannon, Gospel Truth: Discourses and Writings of President George Q. Cannon, ed. Jerreld L. Newquist, 2 vols. [1957], 1:164

Mosiah 3

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Jesus Christ suffered so we can be saved from our sins. As we overcome the natural man, we become Saints through the Savior's Atonement. You can be saved from your sins and rejoice as you exercise faith in Jesus Christ and repent. If you yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, you can overcome the natural man through the Atonement of Christ.

1-27. How does this chapter help you appreciate what happened to the Savior on a personal level?

"Christ's agony in the garden is unfathomable by the finite mind, both as to intensity and cause...it was within His power to lay down His life voluntarily. He struggled and groaned under a burden such as no other being who has lived on earth might even conceive as possible. It was not a physical pain, nor mental anguish alone, that caused Him to suffer such torture as to produce an extrusion of blood from every pore; but a spiritual agony of soul such as only God was capable of experiencing. No other man, however great his powers of physical or mental endurance, could have suffered so; for his human organism would have succumbed, and syncope would have produced unconsciousness and welcome oblivion. In that hour of anguish, Christ met and overcame all the horrors that Satan, "the prince of this world" could inflict... In some manner, actual and terribly real, though to man incomprehensible, the Savior took upon Himself the burden of the sins of mankind from Adam to the end of the world." - James E Talmage, Jesus the Christ, 3rd Ed. [1916], 613

1-5. What was it in the angels message that could fill the Nephites with joy? What in the angels message fills you with joy?

2. How did King Benjamin receive the words that he related to his people? Why is the work 'awake' so important in this narration? Why is it so important to ensure that we awake FULLY from sin?

3. Was the angels message a message of sorrow or joy? What doctrines of the gospel bring you great joy?

4. Why do you suppose that the Lord wants His people to be happy and rejoice? Which of the Savior's gifts of service is the most impressive to you and why?

5-7. How often do you find joy in the knowledge and power of the Atonement of your Savior, Jesus Christ? Could you come to understand the power of the Atonement in your life more fully? What can you do specifically do this week to seek further insights and understanding of the Atonement of Christ?

8-9. What do you know about the Savior that testifies to your soul, that the Savior was more than just a man? How can you strengthen your testimony of the Savior and His ministry on the earth? What experiences have you had that has helped you know that Jesus Christ is the Savior? How does remembering this experience add joy to your life?

10. Did the Savior really live again? How can you strengthen your testimony of the reality of the Savior's resurrection?
11-18. Who enjoys the cleansing benefits of the Atonement?

11. Who does the blood of Christ atone for?
12. How does one who has rebelled against God take advantage of the gift of the Atonement of Christ? What will happen to those who rebel but choose not to repent?
13. How does the presence and teachings of prophets of God convey the great love God has for you? What hope does it communicate to you that God has in you?
14. Why was the law of Moses appointed and practised throughout all the years before the birth of Christ?
15. What are some of the signs, wonders, types and shadows that have been showed to the children of God throughout the dispensations?
16. Are little children (those under the age of 8) able to sin? How does the Atonement affect those who die before they reach the age of 8?
17. What is the only way through which salvation can be given?
18. Why are you admonished to become like a little child? How are little children humble and teachable? What can you do to become more like a little child in these aspects of your life?
19-27. A river is always crooked because water flows or follows a course of least resistance. If water's natural flow is altered by man's efforts, it can be channelled into a straight canal. How could a natural man be compared to a river? Is it the natural man or the Saint that follows in the course of least resistance? How is a Saint like the canal? What are some things you choose to do, because it takes less effort, instead of what you should do? Why would following a course of least resistance make you an enemy to God? What does it mean to yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit? How does the Atonement help you become a Saint? In what ways are you seeking to yield to the enticings of the Holy Spirit in your life?

"Personal righteousness, worship, prayer, and scripture study are so crucial in order to '[put] off the natural man'" - Neal A Maxwell, GC, October 2000

19. What is the natural man? How does one overcome the natural man which resides in each and every one of us? How does the Atonement help you overcome the natural man? What childlike characteristics are listed here that help you overcome the natural man? Which characteristic do you need to work harder to develop? How submissive are you to the will of the Lord? How do you feel about your trials and challenges? How can a spirit of submission to God help you overcome your trials and challenges?

"A 'natural man' is a person who chooses to be influenced by the passions, desires, and appetites of the flesh rather than the promptings of the Holy Spirit." - Book of Mormon Study Guide for Home Study Seminary Students [2012], 110

"First of all, the natural man is an 'enemy to God.' This means that such individuals would (whether fully understanding the implications of their own resistance or not) oppose the ultimate purpose of God for mankind, which is, as we know, 'to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.' given our eternal interests, the natural man therefore is not our friend either, even if, at times, we seem quite at home with him... Instead of becoming a saint, being childlike and willing to submit to our Eternal Father, the natural man is rebellious and insists on walking in his own way. He is childish is instead of childlike. The natural man also stubbornly seeks for happiness in iniquity - an incredibly naive notion about the nature of happiness and the universe... Thus it is that the natural man, in attempting to live 'without God in the world' and in catering slavishly to his natural instances, is actually living 'contrary to the nature of happiness.'" - Neal A Maxwell, Notwithstanding My Weakness [1981], 71-2

20. What prophecy concerning the knowledge of God is given for our day? What can you do to assist in bringing the work of the Lord forth in assisting in the spreading of the knowledge of the Savior?
24-27. What will happen to those who choose not to exercise faith in Jesus Christ and repent?

Mosiah 2

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

When we are serving our fellow beings, we are serving God. When we feel indebted to God, we want to serve others and our gratitude increases.

1-2. How many people gathered to hear the last words of King Benjamin? How do you think the people felt about him? Why? When do Church members gather together to listen to the prophet today? How have the words of the prophets in general conference helped you? Read verses 4 and 31. What blessings came to the people who gathered to hear King Benjamin? What similar blessings do we obtain from general conference? What can you do to learn more while listening to or watching general conference?

"If you want to know what the Lord has for this people at the present time, I would admonish you to get and read the discourses that have  been delivered at this conference, for what these brethren have spoken by the power of the Holy Ghost is the mind of the Lord, the will of the Lord, the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto Salvation." -Harold B Lee, Ensign, April 1973

3. What would the people do when they visited the temple? How did the intention of offering sacrifices at the temple help the people prepare to be taught by their King in righteousness? What do you do in preparation to be taught before you attend meetings where you will be taught by the Lord's servants?

4. It is interesting that they still thank God for bringing them out of Jerusalem, after all about 476 years have passed. Do you feel genuine gratitude for your pioneer heritage dating back less than 200 years?

5. How is the importance of family indicated in this verse? What do you do to strengthen and build up your family on a regular basis? On a daily basis?

6. Why did the people pitch their tents with the door facing the temple? Why is it so important to set yourself to continually view the temple? How can keeping your eye on the temple and the standards you must live by help you avoid sin and temptation?

7-8. What did King Benjamin do to ensure that as many people as possible were able to hear his words? By what means do you hear the words of our prophets, leaders and teachers today? How is today's means of electronic communication, satellite and internet similar to King Benjamin's tower? Why is it so important to use the towers of communication wisely? Consider how the Zoramites used the tower of Rameumpton (see Alma 31). How was their use of their tower to their condemnation?

5-8. Why are the messages of general conference important to our family?

"For the next six months, your conference edition of the Ensign should stand next to your standard works and be referred to frequently. As my dear friend and brother Harold B Lee said, we should let these conference addresses by the guide to [our] walk and talk during the next six months. These are the important matters the Lord sees fit to reveal to this people in this day." - Ezra Taft Benson, GC, April 1988

9. What counsel does King Benjamin offer to the people before he begins speaking to them? In what ways did he desire them to open their ears, hearts and minds? In what ways do you ensure that your ears are able to hear the words of God? What do you do to prepare yourself to be taught by the Lord's servants? How can you open your heart to understand the words which the servants of the Lord deliver to you? What does it mean to you to have a soft, receptive heart? What are the mysteries of God? How is it possible for you to have the mysteries of God unfolded to your view?

10. In what way does King Benjamin convey his humility to the people? Why would he be concerned that the people might fear him? 

10-18. How does King Benjamin's attitude about service make him a good king? 

11. To whom does King Benjamin attribute his talents and strengths? To whom does King Benjamin give credit for his role as the next king?

12-13. What rules and laws does King Benjamin uphold? How does he expect his people to live? Why does he feel it is so important that he as their king, sets the example for upright conduct? What would others determine about you based on your conduct? Is there anything you need to change or do differently? What can you do to set a better example this week?

14. What kind of a king was King Benjamin? How would it be to have a king such as King Benjamin ruling the land? What things would be different? What things would stay the same?

15. Why is it so important to King Benjamin to be able to answer to God with a clear conscience? If you had to stand before God today, what condition would your conscience be in? Is there anything you need to repent of or forgive others for that you might be able to stand with confidence in the presence of God?

16-17. Think about a time when someone blessed your life by serving you. How did you (or how would you) show your appreciation to God for the person who served both you and God in righteousness? How did you show your appreciation to that person?

16. When King Benjamin serves his people, who does he consider himself serving? How do you feel when you have selflessly served another? Why do you suppose that it feels so good to serve others?

"Service is not something we endure on this earth so we can earn the right to live in the celestial kingdom. Service is the very fiber of which an exalted life in the celestial kingdom is made. Knowing that service is what gives our Father in Heaven fulfilment, and knowing that we want to be where He is and as He is, why must we be commanded to serve one another? Oh, for the glorious day when these things all come naturally because of the purity of our hearts. In that day  there will be no need for a commandment because we will have experienced for ourselves that we are truly happy only when we are engaged in unselfish service." Marion G Romney, GC, October 1982

"It is important to be appreciated. But our focus should be on righteousness, not recognition; on service, not status." - Howard W Hunter, GC, October 1992

17. If you wanted to show God the true depth of your gratitude for all the many blessings He has bestowed upon you, how might service be a good avenue to do so?

18. King Benjamin points out that if he, as king can serve the people, then they should be able to serve one another. Why do you think that service was so important to the Savior during his ministry? How does His example of service help you serve others better?

19-26. What kind of attitude are we to have if we are to serve God? 

19. How do you feel towards those who have helped you, assisted you or blessed your life in any way? How should the desire we feel to express heartfelt gratitude to those who have helped us reflect the degree of gratitude we feel and express toward our Father in Heaven and His Son, Jesus Christ?

20-21. Is it possible to ever convey the complete depth of our gratitude to our Father in Heaven for His bountiful and merciful blessings which He bestows upon us EVERY day of our lives? Why is it so important to try? In what ways do you show your gratitude to your Father in Heaven? How does service convey this feeling of gratitude to the Lord so effectively?

21. Why did King Benjamin say we are 'unprofitable servants'? (See verse 24) 

22. What does the Lord require of you in order for you to receive the many blessings He has promised you? How complicated is His formula for deciding whether you have earned a blessing or not? How does the simplicity of His plan bless your life and bring further heavenly blessings to your attention?

23-24. In what ways has the Lord blessed your life? How often do you receive blessings? Why is it important for us to remember our indebtedness to God?

"The most important of those blessings is, of course, the gift of the Atonement. The price Jesus Christ paid to redeem us from sin and death is infinite, a price we never can repay. We should not, however, think that God compares all he has done for us with what we do for Him. He loves us and is delighted with our every effort to serve and obey." - Book of Mormon Student Study Guide, 74

25. What can we do that the dust never does? While the dust will never disobey God, what may we become that the dust never will? What do we learn in this verse about the principle of humility that can help us achieve our greatest potential? (See D&C 136:32-33)

26. How highly does King Benjamin establish himself in comparison to the people? How does his attitude convey his humility?

27-28. How did King Benjamin's lifestyle of service help him to feel he could stand before God with a clear conscience? What does it mean 'rid my garments of your blood'? Who are you responsible to teach and testify to? How does doing so spiritually speaking, rid your garments of their blood? What must you do to ensure that your garments are not stained with the blood of your fellow men?

29-30. Why was King Benjamin no longer able to serve as their teacher or their king?

31. What promise does King Benjamin give to those who choose to keep the commandments of God? What does this promise mean to you? Is there anything you need to repent of, in order to obtain this blessing?
32-37. What warning is given to those who refuse to repent?

32. What does King Benjamin caution his people against? What does it mean 'list to obey the evil spirit'?

33. What wo is pronounced upon those who choose to obey the evil spirit?Why are the consequences of CHOOSING evil works over good works so serious?

34. What does it mean to be eternally indebted to your Heavenly Father? How grateful do you feel - to what measure is  the gratitude you feel in your heart toward your Father in Heaven and His goodness and blessings toward you? How would you feel toward Him if you could recognize EVERY blessing He has ever bestowed upon you? Would you be surprised at the frequency of His hand in your life? Recognizing this, would your gratitude toward Him increase?

35. Consider a time when you discovered words of comfort and strength in the scriptures? Did you recognize God's hand? Did you offer up thanksgiving  for the blessing of scriptures? For the blessing of righteous examples which they contain?

36. When one willfully chooses to turn from Gods law - what do they also choose to have withdrawn from them? How important is the Spirit of The Lord in your life? How has it blessed you with wisdom beyond your own?

"We should... endeavor to discern when we 'withdraw [ourselves] from the Spirit of the Lord...' The standard is clear. If something we think, see, hear, or do distances us from the Holy Ghost, then we should stop thinking, seeing, hearing, or doing that thing. If that which is intended to entertain, for example, alienates us from the Holy Spirit, then certainly that type of entertainment is not for us. Because the Spirit cannot abide that which is vulgar, crude, or immodest, then clearly such things are not for us. Because we estrange the Spirit of the Lord when we engage in activities we know we should shun, then such things definitely are not for us." - David A Bednar, GC, April 2006

37-38. How can choosing to obey God prevent the pain and anguish outlined in these verses? How can feelings of guilt and remorse feel like an unquenchable fire?
38.How will the unrepentant feel at death?

39. Why does mercy not have any claim on those who willfully rebel against God? How do you feel about the mercy that The Lord extends to you?

"Some people knowingly break God's commandments, planning to repent later, such as before they go to the temple or serve a mission. Such deliberate sin mocks the Savior's Atonement." - For the Strength of Youth [booklet 2011], 29

41. What will happen to those who keep the commandments of God? What must you do to avoid never-ending torment and obtain never-ending happiness?

Mosiah 1

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

Searching the Scriptures helps us to know and keep the Commandments.

1-8. What blessings would the Nephites have lost if they had not had the scriptures? What blessings would you be missing in your life if you did not have the scriptures?

1. How did King Benjamin get rid of contention in his kingdom? What can you do to eradicate contention from your life?

2. What is one thing you have learned from your mother or father? What is one additional thing you would love to have your mother or father teach you? What does the Lord expect parents to teach their children? (See Doctrine and Covenants 68:25-28) Why do you think the Lord expects that of parents? Why would it be important to hear the testimony of your parents?

2-3. Why had King Benjamin educated his sons? How does your education help you understand the prophecies recorded in the Scriptures? What are the mysteries of God? How does divine revelation reveal the mysteries of God to you? What do these verses teach you about King Benjamin as a father?

"Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children… Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, and to observe the Commandments of God." – The Family: A Proclamation to the World 

4. How did the scriptures help Lehi and his posterity? How do the scriptures bless your life? How do you hope the scriptures will bless the lives of your posterity?

5-7. If profit can be thought of as income minus expenses, what does it mean to profit from the scriptures? What expenses are therefore scripture study? What are some benefits of scripture study? How have you profited from scripture study? What do you think would happen to your family if you neglected to study the scriptures that you have?

"One would not forgo partaking of the sacrament because he is trying to lose weight, get some neglect the Scriptures because they are too busy minding the pressing cares of the world." – Neal A Maxwell,Things  as They Really Are, 97

"No father, no son, no mother, no daughter should get so busy that he or she does not have time to study the Scriptures and the words of modern prophets." – Spencer W Kimball, GC, April 1976

5. What does it mean to have the commandments of The Lord always before your eyes? What can you do to always have His commandments before your eyes?

6. What did King Benjamin tell his sons? In what way does the testimony of your parents influence or encourage your desire to study and trust in the words of the scriptures?

7. How does King Benjamin counsel his sons to study the scriptures? In what way can your study of the scriptures become more meaningful to you? How are you blessed for studying the scriptures?

8. What sorts of things do you think King Benjamin taught his sons? What sorts of other things have your parents taught you? What would you hope to teach your own children?

9. What did King Benjamin do to ensure that the was ready to leave this life? How does living a righteous life help one feel more prepared to meet the Lord than living a carnal life?

10. Why did asking ?Benjamin feel Mosiah would make a good King?

11. What made the people worthy of receiving a special name to be known by? Why did King Benjamin wish to give his people a name to be know by?  What does it mean to take upon you the name of Jesus Christ?

"Please remember this one thing. If our lives and our faith are centered upon Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong. On the other hand, if our lives are not centered on the Savior and his teachings, no other success can ever be permanently right." – Howard W Hunter, Fear Not, Little Flock, 1988-89 Devotional and Fireside Speeches, 112

"As his followers, we cannot do a mean or shoddy or ungracious thing without tarnishing his image. Nor can we do a good and gracious and generous act without burnishing more brightly the symbol of him whose name we have taken it upon ourselves." – Gordon B Hinckley, Be Thou an Example, 90

12. What is the only thing that can blot out the name of honor that was bestowed by King Benjamin on his people?

13. Us does sin weaken people and take away their steength? Is all your strength your own? How do you know that a portion of your strength comes directly from your Heavenly Father?

14. How had the Neohites thus far been preserved from the Lamanites? How does The Lord preserve you from your enemies?

17. What are the consequences of unfaithfulness? Do you think these same consequences exist today for the unfaithful? Why or why not? What can you do to help those who have left the church to come back?

Words of Mormon 1

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

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The Lord knows ALL things. Understanding and believing in this truth helps you to develop faith and to obey the promptings from the Holy Ghost that you receive. The Lord calls prophets who can lead people to peace despite challenges. We can find peace by following the inspired leadership of the prophets. In the strength of the Lord, we can overcome challenges.

1. What had Mormon witnessed? What do you think he might have been feeling at this time?

2. Why does Mormon desire that his son Moroni will survive the destruction of the Nephites? How does this desire convey the love that Mormon has for the Lamanite people? How important do you think it is to love your enemies? What can you do to love those who despitefully use you or persecute you in any way?

3. How does this insert by Mormon, who abridged the Nephite records, help you understand better the contents of the gold plates which Joseph Smith translated? How did Mormon's inspiration to include the small plates of Nephi prove to be wisdom and a blessing for you?

4. Why did Mormon include the small plates of Nephi? What pleased him about this record? How have the prophecies of Christ included in the Book of Mormon blessed your life?

5. Where does the remainder of the record Mormon abridged come from?

6. Why are the records of the prophesyings and revelations of the prophets considered to be very choice to Mormon? How highly do you esteem these records for yourself?

7. Did Mormon feel inspired in the records he included in his abridgement? When have you felt the direction of the Lord in your life? Do you always know the purpose for which you are inspired to act? How does trusting in the knowledge of God and knowing of His love for you help you to act upon the promptings you receive?

7. Think of a time when you felt prompted by the Spirit to do something. Did you know how everything would turn out if you followed this prompting? What gave you the determination and confidence to act on the prompting? How can you better prepare to recognize and respond to the Lord's promptings?

8. Were Mormon's prayers centered on himself or others? Why did Mormon pray for his enemies the Lamanites? What was Mormon's hope for them? What can this teach you about your own prayers?

8. How highly do you value the spiritual welfare of those who wander without the blessings of the gospel? In what way did Mormon's life's work of abridging Nephite records convey his deep concern for and desire to restore the blessings of the Lord to the Lamanite people?

9. How does the Lord bless the work you do for and behalf of others? How does the influence of the Holy Ghost increase the effect of your mortal efforts? What do you do to be worthy of these blessings?

10. How important was record keeping to the Nephite people? What records do you keep that might be of worth to your posterity?

11-13. What does Mormon tell us about King Benjamin? What kind of a king was King Benjamin?

14. How did the Lord help and assist King Benjamin and his people? Why is it wise to include the Lord in ALL the things that you do? When was the last time you specifically included the Lord in one of your challenges?

15. With the Lord on his side, how did King Benjamin deal with false Christs? How can the Lord strengthen you when you meet those who profess to believe that there is no God?

16. 18. What did King Benjamin do to establish peace over the land?

17. What description does Mormon give of King Benjamin's character? Which character traits does King Benjamin have that you would also like to have said about you? How can you cultivate and develop these characteristics in your own life? What role should the Lord play as you work to improve yourself? How often do you turn to the Lord as you seek to improve yourself?

Omni 1

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

If we come unto Christ and endure to the end, we will be saved.

1-11. How often do you write in your journal? What were the descendants of Jacob commanded to write on the plates of gold (see Jacob 1:1-4)? Following Jacobs description, what could you do to be sure that your own personal record contains that which is MOST precious?

1. How did Omni honour his father in this verse? How do you honour your father?

2. How did Omni judge himself? Have you ever felt like you do not keep the commandments as strictly as you should? How can this feeling or prompting be a blessing to you?

3. What did the Nephite people see much of? How did the times of war help them appreciate the times of peace? Do you appreciate your blessings more after experiencing hardships or trials?

4. How did Amaron honour his father? When you choose to honour a parent, in what way do you glorify your Father in Heaven?

5. What happened to the wicked Nephites? How does this evidence the Lords promise that the people would prosper in righteousness, but be destroyed in wickedness?

6. How do you know that you can ALWAYS trust in the Lord's promises?

7. How were the righteous blessed when the judgements of the Lord came upon the Nephite people? What will it be like for the righteous at the time of the Lord's second coming?

8. How did the continual passing of the plates indicate the great trust and respect that these men felt for the Lord?

9. What did Chemish feel to tell us? Why was it so important generation after generation to make sure that a record had been kept?

10. What has Abinadom spent much of his life doing? Why is it so important to be ever watchful against the threat of the enemy? What enemy do you have to battle daily in defence of your spirit?

11. Do people need to hear new revelations to keep obeying the Lord? How does knowing that all the Lord has taught, regardless of the dispensation, will be fulfilled and that His words are words to live by even in our day? Ponder on what our prophets teach us. Are they teaching anything new or are they just reinforcing that which the Lord has continually taught from the beginning of the world? Why is it important to you to have a prophet that continually reminds you of the Lords promises and commandments?

12. Why was Mosiah I commanded to take his people and flee from the land of Nephi? Where were they to go?

13. Who led the people in their flight from the land of Nephi? Where did the Lord lead the people of Nephi? Why was it so important for the Mosiah and his people to trust that the Lord had a purpose in the command He gave? When the prophet speaks, do you trust that by heeding his counsel, you will be blessed in ways that only the Lord can know?

14. What did the Nephites discover as they allowed the Lord to guide them? How did this discovery make them feel? How did the people in Zarahemla feel when Mosiah and his people joined them? How was the coming of the Nephites an answer to prayer for those who lived in Zarahemla? How important are the scriptures to you? What can you do to show the Lord that you value His word?

14. How did the lack of scriptures affect the people of Zarahemla? How might knowing this help you feel more grateful for the scriptures and be more diligent in studying them?

15-16. What was the history of the people of Zarahemla?

17. What did the people of Zarahemla experience that was similar to what the people of Nephi experienced? Why is it so necessary to have trials and challenges? How do you feel about your trials and challenges? How was the absence of scripture one of the greatest challenges that the people of Zarahemla faces?

18. What did Mosiah do to overcome the communication barrier? What did he do to correct the traditions of the people of Zarahemla that had strayed from what the Lord had taught? How did Mosiah's willingness to follow the Lord (v. 13) become a great blessing to the people of Zarahemla? How has the obedience of others affected your life?

19. How was the love Mosiah gave the people of Zarahemla received? Why is love so important to offer when establishing a relationship? When you meet someone new are you most inclined to love them or judge them? What happens when you extend love? What happens when you pass judgement?

20-21. What record did Mosiah translate from the stone? By what power was Mosiah able to translate this record? Why was it of interest to the people? Why is it of interest to you?

22. At what period in history did the story of Coriantumr begin? How does this strengthen you testimony of the Book of Mormon?

23. Who was the king that succeeded King Mosiah I?

24. What challenges still face the Nephites under King Benjamin's reign?

25. Who did Amaleki choose to pass the gold plate on to in order to preserve the record of his people? What is Amaleki's testimony? Who is the source of ALL goodness? How does this help you choose between good and evil? 

25-26. What invitation does Amaleki offer three times in these verses? What three answers does he give to those who truly desire to come unto Christ? What promise is extended to those who follow this counsel?

26. Have you accepted the invitation he extends? How can you offer your whole soul to Christ? Why do you think Amaleki cares if you accept his invitation to come unto Christ or not? How can seeking to follow the Savior be a blessing and strength to you throughout your life?

"Only through sacrifice can we become worthy to live in the presence of God. Only through sacrifice can we enjoy eternal life. Many who have lived before us have sacrificed all they had. We must be willing to do the same if we would earn the rich reward they enjoy."  - Gospel Principles, 175

"Knowing by the power of the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ is important and necessary. But earnestly coming unto Him and giving our whole souls as an offering requires much more than merely knowing. Conversion requires all of our heart, all of our might, and all of our mind and strength ...the key characteristics associated with conversion are experiencing a mighty change in our hearts, having a disposition to do good continually, going forward in the path of duty, walking circumspectly before God, keeping the commandments, and serving with unwearied diligence." - David A Bednar,GC, October 2012

27-30. Can you find Amaleki's brother in the Book of Mormon? (See Mosiah 9-22) Who was the leader of this group? What did they do when they got to the land of Lehi-Nephi?

27. What other group does Amaleki tell us about in his record?

28. What happened to the group of people who sought to obtain the land of Nephi once again?

29. What did this group do after returning to Zarahemla?

30. Why do you think this group of people caused such anxiety within Amaleki? Why do you think that he mentioned them in his record? How does what he recorded help us understand the events that followed?

Jarom 1

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

As we obey the commandments of God, we will prosper.

1-15. Have you ever wondered if or how the Lord would fulfill His promise to bless you for keeping His commandments? When has the Lord blessed or prospered you for keeping His commandments? What are you able to testify about the Lord and His promises?

"I learned that God's promises are not always fulfilled as quickly as or in the way we might hope; they come according to His timing and in His ways. Years later I could see clear evidence of the temporal blessings that come to those who obey the Word of Wisdom—in addition to the spiritual blessings that come immediately from obedience to any of God’s laws. Looking back, I know for sure that the promises of the Lord, if perhaps not always swift, are always certain." - Dieter F Uchtdorf, GC, April 2010

1. How did Jarom feel about doing genealogy?

2. How important does Jarom esteem the doctrine of the Plan of Salvation to be? How does the plan of salvation encompass ALL the doctrines of the gospel? Is there more you can do to understand and appreciate the plan of Salvation?

"Truly, of all the errors mortals could make, God’s plan of salvation is the wrong thing to be wrong about! No error could be more enormous or more everlasting in its consequences!" - Neal A Maxwell, GC, April 1984

3. How well do those who are hardened, deaf, blind and stiffnecked receive the word of God? How do each of these things represent spiritual sickness? Do any of those conditions ever prevent you from learning and understanding by the Spirit about the doctrines of Christ? How can you overcome such conditions of the heart?

4. How does overcoming spiritual sickness help you receive revelation and inspiration in your life? What blessing do you receive if you have faith and communion with the Spirit? Ponder upon the revelation you have received in your life. What can you do to hear the voice of the Lord? How can you see and recognize the Lord's mercy in your life?

5-10. Why did the Nephites prosper? How might each reason in these verses help you and your family to prosper and be successful?

5. What commandments did Jarom specifically mention? Of these commandments, how many of them do you see being broken on a regular basis in our society? How does your keeping of the commandments convey your love for your Father in Heaven to others?

6. How did the lifestyle of the Lamanites differ from that of the Nephites? Do you ever feel like trying to live righteously is vastly different from those who choose to live wickedly? When there is such a difference between the two, how is it that people can turn from righteousness to wickedness so quickly? Is there anything in your heart or in your actions that might indicate a shift away from righteousness? If so what can you do to make sure that you are firmly standing for righteousness and truth in ALL things/

7. To what does Jarom attribute the Nephites ability to conquer their enemies in war? Do you find it interesting that he does not mention skill with a sword or anything like it to be the reason for their victory? What do you have that helps you conquer your enemies, your spiritual challenges?

8. What things were the Nephites blessed with for their righteousness? How did these things help them prepare to meet their enemies when wars broke out? How can your worldly possessions help you to face your enemies and be spiritually prepared to meet them?

9. How did the Nephites realize the promise of the Lord to Lehi, when he was told that if they would keep the commandments they would prosper? Is this promise in force today? How has the Lord prospered you for choosing to live righteously?

10-12. What would have been the result of not following the prophets? What was the result for obedience (See Mosiah 2:41)?

"I know of no other writing which sets forth with such clarity the tragic consequences to societies that follow courses contrary to the commandments of God. Its pages trace the stories of two distinct civilizations that flourished on this Western Hemisphere. Each began as a small nation, its people walking in the fear of the Lord. But with prosperity came growing evils. The people succumbed to the wiles of ambitious and scheming leaders who oppressed them with burdensome taxes, who lulled them with hollow promises, who countenanced and even encouraged loose and lascivious living, who led them into terrible wars that resulted in the death of millions and the final and total extinction of two great civilizations in two different eras. No other written testament so clearly illustrates the fact that when men and nations walk in the fear of God and in obedience to his commandments, they prosper and grow, but when they disregard him and his word, there comes a decay that, unless arrested by righteousness, leads to impotence and death. " - Gordon B Hinckley, Ensign, June 1988, 5

10. What role did the prophets play in assisting the people to remain true to their God? How do the prophets assist you today as you seek to strengthen your faith and be obedient in all things? What specific counsel have the prophets given that has helped you to avoid the pitfalls and snares of the adversary?

11. Why do you think we need prophets and priesthood leaders today? What did the prophets teach the Nephite people regarding the law of Moses? How did this help prepare them for the eventual coming of the Savior to the world? How do you think that understanding the law of Moses and its symbolism of Christ, helped the people effect the Atonement in their own lives? How has the Atonement affected your life?

12. How were the prophets a protection to the people of Nephi? How are the prophets a protection to you today?

13. What things filled the Nephite history? How much of your time is spent disagreeing, criticizing or judging others? How is this tendency a reflection of what Jarom summarizes as wars and contentions and dissensions which filled much of their history?

Enos 1

(Below is a list of questions and quotes that help me think about each verse as I read it. The numbers represent the verses in the chapter.)

As we exercise faith in Jesus Christ, our sins can be forgiven and we can be made whole. As we experience the blessings of Jesus Christ's Atonement, we will seek to help others receive salvation.

1. How did Enos feel about his father? How do you feel about your father? Have you ever blessed the name of God for granting you the father you were given? What impact do the teachings of parents have in the conversion of their children?

"In the divine scheme every soul has been given a father whose responsibility is not only to sire and provide the necessities of life, but also to train for mortality and life eternal... The teachings of the children by the father is basic from the beginning. The Lord ordained it so. Though Enos hed strayed for a time, the teachings of his father prevailed, and he returned to worthiness." – Spencer W Kimball, GC, April 1965

"Twice blessed is the child who, what he or she is so young as perhaps to be unable to comprehend the words, can nevertheless feel the spirit of prayer as a loving mother or a kind father helps with a few words of prayer at bedtime. Fortunate, indeed, are the boys and girls, including those in their teens, in whose homes there is the practice of morning and evening family prayer." – Gordon B Hinckley, Ensign, June 1985

2-10. How was Enos's. prayer different from many prayers? How can you make your own prayers more effective by following Enos's example?

2. Notice that Enos did not wrestle with God but before God in prayer. Such wrestling involves a mental and spiritual struggle to show Heavenly Father the sincerity of your desires and your willingness to repent and make the necessary changes in your life. Have you ever wrestled before God? How can the repentance process feel like a wrestle? What are you wrestling?

"Some prayers are expressions of gratitude. Others are simple request like those asking for a blessing on the food. Still others are heartfelt cries for help. Of these kinds of prayers, Jesus commanded us to pray having a sincere heart with real intent, having faith in Christ. Patricia T Holland observes: 'We are women now, not children, and we are expected to pray with maturity. The words most often used to describe urgent, prayerful labor are wrestle, plead, cry, and hunger. In some sense, prayer may be the hardest work we will ever engage in, and perhaps it should be.' (Ensign, October 1987)" – VisitingTeaching  Message, Ensign, July 1990

3. How have the teachings of your parents affected you? What specific teachings have they taught that have had a great impact upon your heart?

4-13. Why would it be important to pray for your own needs? Is it easy or difficult for you to pray for others? Why? Is it easy or difficult for you to pray for your enemies? Why?

"You cannot lift another soul until you are standing on higher ground then she is… You cannot light a fire in another soul unless it is burning in your own soul." – Harold B Lee, Stand Ye in Holy Places, 187

4. The phrase 'my soul hungered' may involve feelings such as spiritual emptiness or pain or a desire to be filled spiritually. Has your soul ever hungered? How can prayer edify your hungry soul? How would you describe mighty prayer? How often do you offer up mighty prayer to your God and King? How can you show the Lord your sincerity as you pray and seek His spiritual blessings?

5-8. Does everyone have to have an experience like Enos did to be saved?

"We must be careful, as we seek to become more and more Godlike, that we do not become discouraged and lose hope. Becoming Christlike is a lifetime pursuit and very often involves growth and change that is slow, almost in perceptible. The scriptures record remarkable accounts of man whose lives changed dramatically, in an instant, as it were: Alma the Younger, Paul on the road to Damascus, Enos praying far into the night, King Lamoni. Such astonishing examples of the power to change even those steeped in sin give confidence that theAtonement  can reach even those deepest in despair. But we must be cautious as we discuss these remarkable examples. Though they are real and powerful, they are the exception more than the rule. For every Paul, for every Enos, and for every king Lamoni, there are hundreds and thousands of people who find the process of repentance much more subtle, much more imperceptible. Day by day they move closer to the Lord, little realizing they are building a godlike life." – Ezra Taft Benson, &, October 1989

5. How do you think Enos felt when he received the knowledge that his sins had been forgiven? How have you felt when you have repented and have received the Lords forgiveness? Is there anything you have yet need to repent of? When have you felt that the Lord forgave you of your sins? How did you know you were forgiven? Have you felt the Lord's forgiveness recently?

"Once we have truly repented, Christ will take away the burden of guilt for our sins. We can't know for ourselves that we have been forgiven and made clean. The Holy Ghost will verify this to us; He is the Sanctifier. No other testimony of forgiveness can be greater… The Lord declared, 'Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.' (D&C 58:42) Satan will try to make us believe that our sins are not forgiven because we can remember them. Satan is a liar; he tries to blur our vision and lead us away from the path of repentance and forgiveness. God did not promise that we would not remember our sins. Remembering will help us avoid making the same mistakes again. But if we stay true and faithful, the memory of our sins will be softened over time. This will be part of the needed healing and sanctification process." - Dieter F Uchtdorf, GC, April 2007

6. Why was Enos' guilt swept away? How did his knowledge of God assist in this process?

7. What emotions does this one question convey? Have you ever felt to marvel at the wonder of the Lord's ways? When?

8. How had Enos' faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ, enabled him to repent and receive the Lords forgiveness? How strong is your faith? Is there anything you need to do to strengthen it further?

9. How does receiving forgiveness from God for your own sins, stir within you a desire for your family and friends to also feel and partake of this great blessing? What do you do in response to this feeling?

"Any time we experience the blessings of the atonement in our lives, we cannot help but have a concern for the welfare of our brother and… A great indicator of one's personal conversion is the desire to share the gospel with others." – Howard W Hunter, The Teachings of Howard W Hunter, [1997], 248-49

10. How did the Lord respond to Enos desire for the welfare of his brethren? How does this promise stand today and include you?

11. Who was Enos deeply concerned for? How did the Lord's answer and assurance affect his faith? How do the answers you receive to your prayers affect your faith?

12. How was Enos faith blessed? When have you placed absolute faith and trust in the Lord? What blessings came as a result?

13. What did Enos desire should his people fall into transgression and be destroyed? How was the preservation of a record a way to reach the Lamanite people of which he was so deeply concerned? What record do we have today that is specifically for the Lamanite descendants - that they may know of the doings of their fathers? What records do you have of your fathers? What records do you leave for your children? How can these records be a blessing to you and your posterity?

14. What prevented the Nephites from working with the Lamanite people at that time? Have you ever had a desire to work with someone who was presently past feeling? What did you do? How did the Lord bless and inspire you in this challenge?

15. How did Enos feel about the scriptures and the records of his people? How do you feel about the scriptures and the records of God's dealings with men?

16-17. Why was Enos able to rest his soul from the anxiety he felt for his Lamanite brethren? How do the Lord's promises to you help to rest your soul in times of worry and uncertainty? What part does faith have in prayer? What could you do to pray with greater face? What a blessing came to Enos through his faith? Why was Enos able to go from believing to knowing? How would an answer from God help you while facing your difficult challenges?

19. How did Enos experience in prayer, the answers to his prayers and his unshakeable faith, empower him in his teaching and testifying to his people? How have the answers to your prayers empowered you to stand for truth and righteousness and share your convictions with others?

20. What kind of people had the Lamanites become? Why didn't the Nephites just give up on them? Have you ever been tempted to give up on a loved one or other individual? How does the Lord bless you when you seek diligently to restore happiness and joy through the gospel of Love to the people who struggle?

21. What kind of people were the Nephites? How do you feel about working? What blessings have you received through your labors?

22. Why were there so many prophets among the Nephites? Were they beginning to struggle spiritually?

23. In what manner did the prophets teach the people? Why did they have to preach of the destructions that await the wicked so continually? How converted would you say the Nephite people were at this time? How converted to the gospel of Christ are you? What can you do to become more converted? How do you know that you are truly converted?

26. How had preaching and prophesying and declaring the word of God to the people caused Enos to rejoice in it above anything in the world? What joy do you receive from the gospel of Jesus Christ? What can you do to feel an even greater joy in His glorious gospel?

27. How did Enos feel about death?