“Finding Answers,” New Era, May 2012, 14–16

Finding Answers

If you listen to general conference, you can often find answers to the questions that concern you.

How can I tell if an impression comes from God?

Is it too late for me to be forgiven?

What if I come from a single-parent family?

What is the difference between revelation and inspiration?

How can I help my less-active friend come back to church?

What are some of the ways God communicates with the prophet?

Do I really have to go to all my church meetings if I’m living the gospel?

Sometimes we use the terms gospel and Church interchangeably, but they are not the same. They are, however, exquisitely interconnected, and we need both. …

Some have come to think of activity in the Church as the ultimate goal. Therein lies a danger. It is possible to be active in the Church and less active in the gospel. Let me stress: activity in the Church is a highly desirable goal; however, it is insufficient. Activity in the Church is an outward indication of our spiritual desire. If we attend our meetings, hold and fulfill Church responsibilities, and serve others, it is publicly observed.

By contrast, the things of the gospel are usually less visible and more difficult to measure, but they are of greater eternal importance. For example, how much faith do we really have? How repentant are we? How meaningful are the ordinances in our lives? How focused are we on our covenants?

I repeat: we need the gospel and the Church. In fact, the purpose of the Church is to help us live the gospel.

Elder Donald L. Hallstrom of the Presidency of the Seventy

I’m struggling with one of the standards. What should I do?

I want to be a stay-at-home mom rather than have a career. Why do I need to get an education?

Gaining knowledge now will pay huge dividends when you become a mother. “A mother’s education level has a profound influence on the educational choices of her [children].” … Educated women “tend to: Give birth to healthier babies, have children who are healthier, be more confident, resilient and have improved reasoning and judgment.”

We learn in “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” that “mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children.” Providing an education for your children is part of that nurturing and is your sacred responsibility. Like the stripling warriors, who “had been taught by their mothers” [Alma 56:47], you will be the most important teacher your children will ever have, so choose your learning carefully. Bless your children and your future home by learning as much as you can now.

Mary N. Cook, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency

I loved general conference! I tried to come as prepared as possible with questions, as Elder Richard G. Scott has advised. I fasted and prayed that I could get the most out of my conference experience. The Spirit was so strong in each session, and I received answers to each of my questions in a special way. Priesthood session really motivated me to act in fulfilling my duty to God and live so that the Light of Christ shows in my everyday actions. I shared on Facebook my conference experience and received positive feedback from nonmember friends about the gospel. I know that Heavenly Father cares for us and answers our prayers through living prophets! The music, especially the closing hymn, “I Need Thee Every Hour” [Hymns, no. 98], strengthened my testimony of the Savior and inspired me to rely more on Him. I know He lives.

Brandyn Y., 17, Arkansas, USA