Sacrament Talks

.1

• Drawing Closer to God

  November 2013 General Conference by Elder Terence M. Vinson Of the Seventy2013-10-19 00:00:00
  

  This talk shares lessons from Elder Vinson's "Drawing Closer to God," illustrating how we can’t succeed on our own but need God's help in our lives. Drawing closer to God involves serving Him wholeheartedly, praying sincerely, reading the scriptures, keeping His commandments, and enduring patiently through challenges. Personal experiences and stories underscore that real spiritual progress requires effort, consistency, and relying on God’s strength rather than just our own. Ultimately, as we reach out to Him, He draws near to us, filling our lives with love and guidance.

• The Reflection in the Water

  November 1, 2009 CES fireside by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf at Brigham Young University2012-07-15 00:00:00
  

  This talk reflects on President Uchtdorf’s “The Reflection in the Water” and discusses the importance of understanding God’s timing, the nature of prayer, and how to act while waiting for answers. It teaches that patience is essential—God’s answers and timing are for our good, though waiting can be difficult. Prayers may not always be answered as we expect, but sincere seeking and aligning our desires with God’s will help us grow. In the meantime, we are encouraged to take meaningful action, develop our abilities, and serve others as we trust in God’s plan.

• Attitude

  Missionary Talk2000-06-11 00:00:00
  

  This talk explains that attitude—how we view life’s challenges—is a key factor in our spiritual success, as shown through scriptural contrasts like Nephi’s faith versus Laman and Lemuel’s complaints, and David’s humility versus Saul’s negativity. Examples of life-changing attitude shifts include Alma the Younger and Paul, who went from opponents of the church to its greatest leaders. We are encouraged to approach our responsibilities, plans, and relationships with faith, optimism, and a willingness to follow the Spirit. Ultimately, our attitude can determine whether we succeed or fail in both spiritual and daily endeavors.

• Baptism

  Missionary Talk2000-06-11 00:00:00
  

  This talk emphasizes that baptism is an important and joyful step, bringing blessings like spiritual rebirth, remission of sins, and the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Baptism is rich in symbolism, representing entry into God's kingdom, the death and resurrection of Christ, and a new beginning. Through baptism, we covenant to take Christ’s name, always remember Him, keep His commandments, and are promised His Spirit in return. Ultimately, we are baptized because even Christ, though perfect, was baptized to fulfill all righteousness and set an example of obedience for us to follow.

• Charity

  Missionary Talk2000-06-11 00:00:00
  

  This talk defines charity as the pure love of Christ, described in scripture as patient, kind, humble, and enduring. It explains that a charitable person demonstrates these Christlike qualities in action and attitude, as outlined in Moroni 7 and 1 Corinthians 13. To develop charity, we must study Christ’s life, pray earnestly for this gift, and learn to love ourselves, which in turn fosters greater love and patience toward others. Ultimately, possessing charity transforms us to be more like Christ and brings blessings to ourselves and those around us.