Elder Donald L. Hallstrom: Converted to His Gospel through His Church

This is the talk that really got me on Saturday morning. I was driving to work as it was month end and I needed to be there to ensure some data was accurate in our time keeping system and had to wait for the individuals working OT that day.


I liked the following points they struck me in areas that I need to improve in and have made my comments in black bold font.

1. Deepen our understanding of Deity.


“A sustained knowledge of and love for the three members of the Godhead are indispensable,” he said. “Mindfully pray to the Father, in the name of the Son, and seek direction from the Holy Ghost. Coupled with constant study and humble pondering, continually build unshakable faith in Jesus Christ.”

I need to really study and ponder my scriptures. I am very relaxed in this sometimes and yet when I committ to doing better, I think why do I stop doing this. I love it. I find myself reading and studying and truly enjoying it. I am now recommitting myself to doing better in my scripture study.

2. Focus on the ordinances and covenants.


“If there are any of the essential ordinances yet to be performed in your life, intently prepare to receive each of them,” he said. “Then, we need to establish the discipline to live faithful to our covenants, fully using the weekly gift of the sacrament. Many of us are not being regularly changed by its cleansing power because of our lack of reverence for this holy ordinance.”

I have to be honest my mind drifted to marriage. Not just for me but mainly for my single male friends. I have a few single men that I am friends with and I worry that they are amazing individuals but have not taken the plunge into this ordinance and covenant. I am not sure how I can improve into this but I am going to start my Thursday night shift at the San Diego Temple. I took a leave of absence due to my surgery and have missed it so much.


3. Unite the gospel with the Church.


“Concentrating on the gospel, the Church will become more, not less, of a blessing in our lives. As we come to each meeting prepared to ‘seek learning, even by study and also by faith,’ the Holy Spirit will be our teacher. If we come to be entertained, we often will be disappointed. ...”

I love the Gospel and the blessings his Church has brought into my life. I am going to be better prepared for Sunday school and RS lessons as well as participate more.

Elder Hallstrom said: “The Lord wants the members of His Church to be fully converted to His gospel”  “This is the only sure way to have spiritual safety now and happiness forever.”

I know that is so true and for myself while I don't fully drift away I do get distracted and wonder around exploring. I am so grateful for conference and how we are gently guided back onto the right path.