Elder Johnson reviewed the story in The Book of Mormon of Amalickiah, Moroni, and the war between their people. That generation had to be prepared in a manner which never had been known among the children of men.
Likewise, we need to prepare our generation and the following generations in a way that is different than ever before.
- Make weak places become strong
- Anticipate attacks
- Continue to strengthen our youth, even in times of peace
President Uchtdorf taught us that one of the greatest responsibilities is to be a teacher of children.
We don't always realize the influence we have, but don't underestimate what the Lord is doing through you.
The history, doctrine, and practices of the Church need to be taught to the youth.
There is a sweet satisfaction when those under your guidance flourish.
It is important that the voices teaching the gospel be taken to the ends of the earth so that those who want to hear shall hear. (Technology has enabled this.)
The pioneers who came before us had faith which was great, but they also had plenty of courage and hard work.
Taking the message to people is one part of spreading the gospel, but effective, loving teachers are able to take the gospel into the hearts of the people.
(1) Follow the Master Teacher.
Talk of Christ, and teach others to love Christ. Don't become prideful. (Don't inhale it. It is the Savior, not you.) The Lord is looking for teachers who do not have their own agenda.
(2) Teach the truth with courage and clarity.
We are committed to a loving Father and absolute truths of the gospel.
The more we treasure and apply the scriptures and the words of the prophets, the more we are able to recognize when we are drifting.
(3) Teach by the Spirit.
Seek for pure inspiration to help us teach, motivate, and share our "fire."
Our charity, confidence, and love will increase the confidence of those we teach.
Do I teach the gospel by the Spirit of Truth? Or by some other way?
(4) Teach from your heart.
When you think of the eternal significance of this work, even those of you who have been formally trained in teaching probably ought to feel overwhelmed now and again.
A righteous and strong motive can influence our ability to learn and teach.
Teaching is not filling a bucket, but lighting a fire.
It's not about how knowledgeable and eloquent a teacher is. Teachers with compelling ideas who speak heart to heart inspire us to action and open our eyes of understanding.
Fast for preparation. Live righteously. Love the Lord. Love our students.
(5) Testify.
We are a testimony-bearing people, and the Holy Ghost will confirm the truthfulness of our testimonies.
The Lord has great confidence in you.
You are entitled to heaven's help.
