“Divine Parenting Lessons” by Elder Valeri V. Cordón | General Conference Study and Lesson Summary with Questions

Summary: “Divine Parenting Lessons” by Elder Valeri V. Cordón

In Elder Valeri V. Cordón’s message, he shares profound insights on parenting derived from scriptures and teachings of modern prophets.

Here are some of his main points:

Climbing to Higher Ground of Gospel Culture:
Parents are urged to embrace a gospel-centered culture within their families, prioritizing values and practices derived from the teachings of Jesus Christ and living prophets. This elevated culture fosters an environment where children can grow in faith and righteousness.

Making Home the Center of Gospel Learning:
President Russell M. Nelson emphasized the importance of the home as the primary setting for gospel learning. Parents are encouraged to fulfill three crucial responsibilities: teaching freely, modeling discipleship, and inviting children to act on their faith.

Teaching Freely:
Parents should generously share gospel principles with their children, spending meaningful time together, discussing sensitive topics openly, and studying scriptures using available resources like Come, Follow Me.

Modeling Discipleship:
Parents must exemplify discipleship by prioritizing God in their lives, honoring commandments, and fulfilling responsibilities such as Sabbath observance and temple worship. By aligning their actions with gospel principles, parents provide tangible examples for their children to follow.

Inviting to Act:
Children should be encouraged to develop their testimonies of Jesus Christ through personal revelation and agency. Parents play a vital role in nurturing their children’s faith, guiding them on the covenant path, and encouraging them to seek truth and avoid false teachings.

Righteous, Intentional Parenting:
Heavenly Father entrusts parents with the sacred responsibility of raising children in righteousness. Intentional parenting involves actively nurturing children’s spiritual development, teaching essential doctrines, and inspiring them to make meaningful choices aligned with gospel principles.

Questions to Consider:

How can we effectively create a gospel-centered culture within our families, considering diverse backgrounds and parenting styles?

What practical steps can parents take to make their homes the center of gospel learning, especially in today’s fast-paced world?

How do you balance the responsibility of freely teaching gospel principles with respecting children’s agency and individual spiritual journeys?

In what ways can parents model discipleship in their daily lives, beyond simply teaching doctrines and principles?

How can parents encourage their children to actively engage in developing their testimonies and making choices based on personal revelation?

Can you share personal experiences or examples of intentional parenting that have had a significant impact on your spiritual development or that of your children?