FAIR

FAIR Staff

Faithful Foundations: Avoiding Spiritual Blindness in Times of Prosperity

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What happens when prosperity becomes a pitfall? Can the blessings of wealth and comfort inadvertently lead us away from God?

In his powerful address, “In the Space of Not Many Years”, Elder David A. Bednar shares insights from the Book of Mormon, emphasizing how even a blessed and righteous people can fall if they become blinded by pride. Drawing on teachings from President Ezra Taft Benson, Elder Bednar reminds us that the Book of Mormon is not only a historical account but also a guide for our time. As we examine the warnings and contrasts between the Nephites and the Lamanites, we uncover lessons on faithfulness, humility, and the spiritual dangers of self-sufficiency over dependence on God. [Read more…] about Faithful Foundations: Avoiding Spiritual Blindness in Times of Prosperity

Seeking Divine Guidance: Finding Answers to Spiritual Questions in an Age of Doubt

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How can we find answers to spiritual questions in a world full of doubt and uncertainty? For many, questions about the gospel, Church history, and personal faith can be complex and emotionally charged. Sister Tracy Y. Browning’s talk, “Seeking Answers to Spiritual Questions,” offers profound insights into navigating spiritual curiosity with patience, trust, and a willingness to follow God’s guidance, even when answers seem elusive. [Read more…] about Seeking Divine Guidance: Finding Answers to Spiritual Questions in an Age of Doubt

Turning Our Hearts Toward God: Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion

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What might we each consider as “weapons of rebellion” in our own lives? Elder D. Todd Christofferson’s talk, “Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion,” invites each of us to lay aside any resistance we feel toward God’s will. Rebellion, whether active or passive, can manifest in ways we might not immediately recognize (see Rebellion, Rebel). For those struggling with doubts, questions, or a tendency to disregard divine direction, Elder Christofferson’s words offer a path back to peace through repentance, humility, and surrender to God’s guidance. His talk draws on powerful stories from the Book of Mormon and Church history, reminding us that no one’s past is beyond God’s reach. [Read more…] about Turning Our Hearts Toward God: Burying Our Weapons of Rebellion

Choosing Joy in a Troubled World: The Power of Worship and Christ-Centered Living

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In a world where “happiness” often seems fleeting, Elder Patrick Kearon’s talk “Welcome to the Church of Joy” offers a profound answer to one of life’s biggest questions: How can we find lasting joy? His talk addresses foundational gospel principles like the Plan of Salvation, agency, and the essential nature of organized worship as pathways to joy. Elder Kearon asserts that true joy flows from understanding God’s plan, reverencing Christ, and gathering as an organized church to partake of the sacrament. Let’s explore how these principles answer common questions and critiques about the Church’s teachings on worship, joy, and mental well-being. [Read more…] about Choosing Joy in a Troubled World: The Power of Worship and Christ-Centered Living

Living as Children of the Covenant: Understanding Our Birthright and Responsibility

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“Why are Latter-day Saints so different?” This is a question many young members of the Church find themselves facing. In a world that values conformity, living differently can feel daunting, even isolating.

In his talk, “O Youth of the Noble Birthright”,  Brother Brad Wilcox speaks to the youth of the Church, reminding them of their noble birthright as covenant children of God. He emphasizes that this identity calls for a distinct way of life, not because they are better than others but because they have a greater purpose to fulfill. Brother Wilcox’s words don’t just offer comfort but also a deeper understanding of how living differently aligns with God’s trust in His children and how it impacts their divine mission. This talk speaks directly to questions of identity, purpose, and divine trust, making it relevant for anyone encountering questions about faith, doctrinal beliefs, or the demands of discipleship.

Common Questions, Misconceptions, and Criticisms

[Read more…] about Living as Children of the Covenant: Understanding Our Birthright and Responsibility

Holding Up the Light of Christ: Sustaining Leaders and Each Other

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In a world that seems to thrive on contention and division, it’s natural to wonder: How can I hold onto light in the midst of it all? Elder Ronald A. Rasband’s talk, “Behold I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up,” invites us to do just that—find, hold, and share the light of the Savior. His message calls on us to strengthen our commitment to Jesus Christ by sustaining our leaders and lifting each other. But what does “holding up” the light really mean? And how do we fulfill this call in today’s complex world?

Elder Rasband’s talk offers a clear apostolic witness of Jesus Christ as the Light of the world and reaffirms the sacred role of prophets in guiding us through spiritual challenges. He emphasizes that sustaining leaders isn’t passive; it’s a call to action. By holding up those called to lead, we strengthen our own resolve and align ourselves with divine purposes. Elder Rasband’s counsel is especially relevant for those facing questions about the role of modern prophets, the fallibility of leaders, and how best to support others in a world often skeptical of faith. [Read more…] about Holding Up the Light of Christ: Sustaining Leaders and Each Other

Consider Conference: Preparing for General Conference

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2024 April General Conference, Sunday Morning Session

The Powerful, Virtuous Cycle of the Doctrine of Christ 

Elder Dale G. Renlund
of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

As we approach General Conference, we are invited to move closer to the Savior and build spiritual momentum, as Elder Renlund described in his talk, “The Powerful, Virtuous Cycle of the Doctrine of Christ.” Elder Renlund shared a personal experience of a kayaking excursion in Hawaii to illustrate a key truth about spiritual progress: maintaining steady effort and momentum helps us navigate life’s challenges. Similarly, preparing for, participating in, and taking action after General Conference allows us to continue ‘rowing’ toward the Savior, no matter how many times the waves of life knock us off course – and no matter where we are in our individual faith journey.  [Read more…] about Consider Conference: Preparing for General Conference

Release events for “Six Days in August”

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Six Days in August is a new film from The Interpreter Foundation about the succession crisis of 1844. The film will officially open in theaters on the Thursday following General Conference, which is 10 October. If you haven’t already watched the trailer, it’s up at https://witnessesfilm.com/. In anticipation of the theatrical release, there will be a couple of events this week:

  • There will be a significant Six Days in August fireside at the SCERA Center for the Arts in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday, 25 September. A free ticket is required.
  • On the following evening, at 7 PM on 26 September, nine Carmike theaters along the Wasatch Front — in Draper, Salt Lake City, American Fork, Orem, Provo, Ogden, Midvale/Sandy, West Jordan, and Farmington — will be offering a “sneak peek” early screening of Six Days in August. (The same will be done on 7 October.) See https://www.cinemark.com/movies/six-days-in-august-early-access?showDate=2024-09-26