By Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf invites us to seek and experience the higher joy that comes from devoting our lives to our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Using the analogy of flight and the story of the Wright brothers, he illustrates how we can find this higher joy through discipleship, service, and faith. He acknowledges the real struggles of life, including mental health challenges, and emphasizes that true joy is found in following the Savior and His teachings. Elder Uchtdorf encourages us to draw near to God, seek joy actively, and serve others to find lasting happiness.
The Whole Aim of Human Existence
Elder Uchtdorf explains that everyone desires happiness, but many struggle to find it. He suggests that true joy is often sought in the wrong places and emphasizes the importance of following the Savior to experience higher joy. He acknowledges the reality of life’s sorrows but assures that joy and sorrow are inseparable companions in this mortal journey.
Joy is the very purpose of God’s plan for His children. It’s what you were created for—’that [you] might have joy’! You were built for this!
Scriptural references for further study:
- 2 Nephi 2:25: “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.”
- John 10:10: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”
God Has Something More to Offer
This section focuses on the deeper, enduring joy that God offers through His gospel. Elder Uchtdorf acknowledges the happiness that can be found in worldly pursuits but emphasizes that only the joy from God is eternal and can withstand the trials of life. He invites everyone to embark on a journey of following Jesus Christ to discover this profound joy.
By inviting everyone and sharing the Savior’s good news of great joy, we do not discount any of these sources of joy. We’re simply saying that God has something more to give. A higher and more profound joy—a joy that transcends anything this world offers.
Scriptural references for further study:
- 1 Corinthians 2:9: “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”
- D&C 59:23: “But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.”
Draw Near unto God
Elder Uchtdorf shares the story of the woman with the issue of blood who was healed by touching Jesus’ garment. He likens this to our need to draw near to the Savior despite our fears and challenges. He encourages us to have faith and reach out to God for healing, peace, and joy.
Like this woman, I have learned that if we draw near to God and reach out to touch Him, we can indeed find healing, peace, and joy.
Scriptural references for further study:
- James 4:8: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
- Hebrews 10:22: “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Look for It
In this section, Elder Uchtdorf highlights the importance of actively seeking joy. He asserts that if we look for reasons to rejoice and follow the Savior, we will find them. He emphasizes that joy is not something that comes passively but must be sought after with intention.
Jesus taught, ‘Seek, and ye shall find.’ I believe this simple phrase is not only a spiritual promise; it is a statement of fact.
Scriptural references for further study:
- Matthew 7:7: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
- Philippians 4:4: “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.”
Bear One Another’s Burdens
Elder Uchtdorf discusses the joy that comes from serving others. He explains that true joy multiplies when shared and that serving others is a way to experience God’s love and joy in our lives. He provides practical suggestions for simple acts of service that can bring joy to both the giver and receiver.
True joy multiplies when it is shared.
Scriptural references for further study:
- Mosiah 2:17: “And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”
- Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
Calls to Action
- Spend time in a sincere, full-hearted effort to draw near to God.
- Seek diligently for everyday moments of hope, peace, and joy.
- Bring joy to others around you by serving and uplifting them.
- Actively look for reasons to rejoice and follow the Savior’s teachings.
- Share the gospel and the joy it brings with others.