FAIR

Apologetics

Live Up to Your Privileges: Women, Priesthood Power, and Seeking a Better World

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A Gift of Divine Power for All God’s Children

What does it mean to access God’s power? How can priesthood ordinances shape our journey, not just for those who hold the priesthood, but for all who make and keep sacred covenants? In her General Conference address, “Live Up to Your Privileges”, President Emily Belle Freeman invites us to consider these questions in light of Doctrine and Covenants 25—the Lord’s revelation to Emma Smith—and our own divine privileges. [Read more…] about Live Up to Your Privileges: Women, Priesthood Power, and Seeking a Better World

Mortality Works: Finding Meaning in Life’s Challenges

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Does Life Ever Feel Overwhelming?

At times, life can feel like an uphill battle, filled with trials, setbacks, and unexpected hardships. We may wonder why difficulties arise and question whether our struggles serve any purpose. Is there a reason for the pain we endure? Can faith help us navigate life’s toughest moments?

God’s Plan is Designed to Work

In his address, Mortality Works!, Elder Brook P. Hales reassures us that our mortal experience is not an accident—it is divinely designed for our growth. Drawing from both scripture and personal experiences, Elder Hales testifies that despite trials, suffering, and sorrow, we are not destined to fail. Rather, our challenges refine us, preparing us for eternal joy. [Read more…] about Mortality Works: Finding Meaning in Life’s Challenges

I Am He: The Power of Christ’s Divine Love and Obedience

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Who is Jesus Christ to You?

Throughout history, people have asked, Who is Jesus of Nazareth? Was He merely a wise teacher, a moral philosopher, or something more? In a world filled with conflicting views of Christ—some simplifying His teachings, others distorting His mission—it’s crucial to return to His own words and example.

President Jeffrey R. Holland, in his powerful General Conference address, “I Am He,” brings us to a pivotal moment in Christ’s mortal ministry: His arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. In this sacred scene, Jesus steps forward to meet His captors, declaring with divine authority, “I am He.” At these words alone, the soldiers stagger backward and fall to the ground. What does this moment teach us about the nature of Christ, His unwavering obedience, and His boundless love? [Read more…] about I Am He: The Power of Christ’s Divine Love and Obedience

Firmly Rooted in Christ: How to Strengthen Your Testimony and Overcome Doubt

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Are You Focusing on the Roots or Just the Branches of Your Faith?

Faith can flourish or fade depending on where we place our focus. While outward expressions of belief—such as Church programs, cultural traditions, or community involvement—can be meaningful, they are not the foundation of a lasting testimony. What happens when challenges come? Can a testimony built only on surface-level elements of the gospel endure the storms of life?

Strengthening the Roots of Our Faith

In his General Conference address, Nourish the Roots, and the Branches Will Grow, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf emphasizes that a strong testimony of Jesus Christ must be nourished at the root. He draws from his own life experiences—reflecting on his baptism 75 years ago in Zwickau, Germany, and the memories of his childhood chapel. Though that beloved building is now gone, his testimony has only deepened over time. [Read more…] about Firmly Rooted in Christ: How to Strengthen Your Testimony and Overcome Doubt

Following Christ: Choosing Peace in a Contentious World

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In a world filled with heated debates, divisive rhetoric, and increasing hostility, how can followers of Jesus Christ navigate discussions with love and clarity? Is it possible to stand firm in faith without contributing to contention?

In his talk Following Christ, President Dallin H. Oaks reminds us that discipleship is a continuous commitment, not an occasional practice. He teaches that to truly follow Christ, we must anchor ourselves in covenants and uphold His commandments, even when the world pressures us otherwise. [Read more…] about Following Christ: Choosing Peace in a Contentious World

The Man Who Communed with Jehovah: Joseph Smith and the Restoration of Truth

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How Can We Know That God Answers Us?

Many wonder if God hears their prayers, especially in moments of doubt. The life of Joseph Smith provides a profound response to this question. His experiences illustrate that God is a revealing, personal, and involved being who speaks to those who sincerely seek Him.

A Prophet’s Testimony of Jesus Christ

In his General Conference address, Elder Kyle S. McKay testifies of Jesus Christ through the lens of Joseph Smith’s life. Joseph’s search for truth led to the First Vision, launching the Restoration of the Gospel and demonstrating God’s willingness to respond to sincere seekers. Elder McKay highlights Joseph’s unwavering faith, commitment to repentance, and reliance on revelation, showing how these principles remain vital today. [Read more…] about The Man Who Communed with Jehovah: Joseph Smith and the Restoration of Truth

The Triumph of Hope: Finding Light Through Christ in Times of Darkness

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What sustains us when life feels unbearably heavy or when answers to our prayers seem delayed? The answer lies in a living, vibrant gift—hope in Jesus Christ.

In his General Conference talk, The Triumph of Hope, Elder Neil L. Andersen invites us to anchor ourselves in the Savior, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement as the ultimate source of light and joy. Elder Andersen reminds us that hope is not passive wishfulness; rather, it is a divine gift that grows as we strengthen our faith. This talk is particularly relevant for those grappling with questions about faith, adversity, and God’s plan, offering profound insights for overcoming the trials and uncertainties of mortality with confidence in the Savior. Hope, as Elder Andersen teaches, is the antidote to despair and the promise of peace amidst the storms of life. [Read more…] about The Triumph of Hope: Finding Light Through Christ in Times of Darkness

Sacred Scriptures: The Original Handheld Device of Faith and Guidance

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Have you ever considered that books, especially sacred scriptures, are the most enduring “handheld devices” in history?

Elder Quentin L. Cook, in his General Conference address Sacred Scriptures—the Foundations of Faith, highlights the eternal significance of sacred scriptures like the Bible and the Book of Mormon in providing divine guidance, comfort, and doctrinal clarity. He emphasizes their role in strengthening faith amidst modern challenges and the increasing digital noise of our era. Elder Cook’s reflections resonate deeply with those grappling with questions of faith, showing how scriptures can illuminate the path to truth and joy. [Read more…] about Sacred Scriptures: The Original Handheld Device of Faith and Guidance

The Credibility of Modern Critics

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by Ron C. Rhodes

Critics of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints aggressively publish negative information about the Church in large volumes.  This article explores the facts to determine if the critics of our faith are coming from a place of honesty and integrity, without disparaging individuals.  The goal of the paper is to help members become better inoculated against misinformation, and to use faithful resources such as those found on FAIR to answer their questions about the Church.

Modern LDS Critics – Credibility or Contempt?

In a court of law, witnesses matter.  A witness’s testimony can hold the power to either convict or exonerate an individual.  There are instances, however, when a witness’s testimony is not credible.  Perhaps they have lied under oath previously, or perhaps they have an ax to grind against the defendant.  In such cases, a skilled attorney will seek to expose these vulnerabilities, helping the jury or the court disregard unreliable testimony. [Read more…] about The Credibility of Modern Critics

Be the Wind: Supporting Others on the Covenant Path

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How often do we feel “forgotten” in a world that measures our value by appearance, status, or wealth? Or perhaps we know someone who, despite their faith and goodness, remains unseen and unrecognized.

In his General Conference address, The Wind Did Never Cease to Blow, Elder Aroldo B. Cavalcante reminds us of our divine mandate to seek out and support the unseen, misunderstood, and overlooked as we progress along the covenant path. Using powerful examples of selfless service and divine assistance, Elder Cavalcante’s message aligns closely with key teachings in Come, Follow Me this week, where we explore how The Restoration offers personal access to divine blessings and guidance. [Read more…] about Be the Wind: Supporting Others on the Covenant Path