Take a step back in history and read the accounts of courageous men and women who contributed to the unfolding of the restoration of the gospel. Be inspired by the testimonies of living prophets and countless men and women who trusted in God and labored faithfully amidst trial and heartache.

Neighbors who lived near my home in a small Arizona town suffered the misfortune of having the foundation of their home crack. The displacement left three- and four-inch gaps between the bricks of the west and north walls. It was a preventable calamity. Everyone knew that the soil was sandy and that the foundation, in order to remain secure, had to rest on bedrock. But in an effort to cut costs and save time, the owner and contractor agreed to shortcuts which led to disaster.

In October 1998, President Gordon B. Hinckley stated in general conference, “I think about the power and force of angels that stand among us.”1 Indeed, scriptural texts indicate that the Lord’s angels have extraordinary capabilities and powers, making them formidable beings. Angels may have power over the elements, and the various earthly forces that exist in this telestial world do not bind them. These great powers of angels enable them to fulfill their missions here upon the earth and to assist mortals, who are, in comparison, delicate and frail. As we discuss the extraordinary powers of angels, however, we must remain cautious and open about those powers, because there is so much that we do not know. We must also remember that many scriptural statements, especially those from John the Revelator, contain symbolisms.

The Lord has commanded his children to repent of sin and to forgive one another, but for many that is one of the hardest commandments to keep.

Some critics argue that Biblical scholars have created the historical Jesus in their own image. A small number of scholars believe the gospel accounts are so mythical in nature that nothing, including the very existence of Jesus, can be determined from them.

Many members who have seen the devastation caused by the recent earthquake and typhoon in the Philippines have contacted the Church wanting to know how they can help. Some have inquired about whether the Church could ship goods that they have collected or purchased. Others want to travel to the affected areas and offer their services to help those affected. While these desires are commendable and demonstrate the willingness of people to sacrifice to help others, the Church has learned that the best way to respond to disasters is to work locally, purchasing needed supplies in country as near to the disaster as possible. This not only ensures that the goods are appropriate for the area but it helps build up impaired, local economies. By working with and supporting local, reliable relief agencies, the Church can build bridges, create friendships and establish relationships that can extend far beyond the immediate crisis.

In a devotional on Sunday, November 13, 2022, President Nelson shared his ABCs of personal preparation for worship in a temple.

After arriving in St. George this weekend, President Holland visited his wife’s grave for the first time since her burial. He and Sister Holland were married in the St. George Temple in 1963.

As God was organizing the earth, He paused at the end of each creative period to announce, “It is good.” He had created light, water, mountains, valleys, plants, fish, birds, and animals. He had given Adam dominion over all the earth. But as God admired His most recent creation—Adam—He observed, "It is not good (Gen 2:18). Of course, he wasn’t referring to His creation of man, but to the fact that something was still missing. That “something” was Eve.

You must understand that these lessons are not designed to replace the experience you should have in your ward or branch Gospel Doctrine class. I am hopeful that they will expand your understanding of the scriptures and, if you are teaching, your ability to open the scriptures to the minds and hearts of your students. But if would be awful if anyone were to neglect that classroom experience in favor of these lessons.