Of Things that Matter Most - RS Lesson, March 6, 2011

Sister Christine Breshears gave the lesson taken from President Dieter F. Uchtdorf's General Conference talk of October, 2010 titled, Of Things that Matter Most.

President Uchtodorf reminds us that "when stress levels rise, when distress appears, when tragedy strikes, too often we attempt to keep up the same frantic pace or even accelerate, thinking somehow that the more rushed our pace, the better off we will be". How many of us judge our self worth as a mother, wife, grandmother, etc. by the length of our TO DO list? The wise "resist the temptation to get caught up in the frantic rush of everyday life".

How can we stay focused on what matter most?
Elder Oaks gave a wonderful talk several years where he taught us that "we have to forego some good things in order to choose others that are better or best". Remember this Good, Better, and Best talk? When we have decisions to make regarding how to spend our time and efforts, we can ask ourselves "What is the best use of my time?" Again President Uchtdorf reminds us that we "would do well to slow down a little, proceed at the optimum speed for our circumstances, focus on the significant, lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most". All of our circumstances are different, we need to evaluate ourselves (not the woman next to us) and decide what Heavenly Father expects of us.

So what are the Basics?
President Uchtdorf tells us that four key relationships are the basics of things that matter most. As we improve one relationship, the other relationships are strengthened.

1) Relationship with Heavenly Father - This relationship is nourished as we learn of Him and of His Son, Jesus Christ. As we keep His commandments, pray daily, study the scriptures, attend the temple, and spend meaningful time alone with Him our relationship with Him is strengthened.
2) Relationship with our Families - This bond is strengthened as we spend time together by doing simple things - family dinner, family home evening, etc. These are activities that don't require money as we are giving of our time. In fact President Uchtdorf says that love within a family is spelled T-I-M-E. He tells us that spending time together is the "key for harmony at home". Sounds like a great promise to me!
3) Relationship with our Fellowman - we develop relationships with others one person at a time. As we share our time and talents with others, we develop lasting relationships with those in our ward and neighborhoods. Visiting teaching provides us the opportunity to develop new relationships. We may find missionary opportunities also as we reach out to those around us.
4) Relationship with Ourselves - We need to remember that we our children of a Heavenly Father and we are of divine worth to Him. Let us focus on our strengths and not criticize and belittle ourselves.

One final reminder by President Uchtdorf " If life and its rushed pace and many stresses have made it difficult for you to feel like rejoicing, then perhaps now is a good time to refocus on what matters most."