Brief summary

Elder Chigbundu uses the analogy of physical immunity to explain how we can develop spiritual immunity to protect ourselves against the difficulties, temptations and uncertainties of life.

Although we live in troubled times, we need not be afraid. Heavenly Father has provided us with simple but powerful ways to strengthen our faith and our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Key quotes and questions to ponder and discuss

‘We live in troubled times marked by wars, family challenges, and economic uncertainty. Yet, as frightening as these challenges may be, we need not fear! As we build our spiritual immunity, we develop the strength and courage to withstand the challenges of life.’ (Paragraph 4)

What does spiritual immunity mean to you?

‘When we study the scriptures, we get knowledge, but more important, we come to know the Lord. As we apply what we learn, His words begin to shape how we think and how we respond to life challenges.’ (Paragraph 8)

Is my scripture study helping me simply gain knowledge, or is it helping me come to know Jesus Christ?

‘Daily, meaningful scripture study invites the guidance of the Holy Ghost and builds our faith to face the temptations and the troubles of the world.’ (Paragraph 11)

How could I make my daily scripture study more meaningful?

‘When we pray to our Heavenly Father, we draw near to Him and seek His help, guidance, and blessings.’ (Paragraph 16)

Do I pray with genuine faith and confidence that Heavenly Father hears me?

‘As we pray in faith, our spiritual immunity will be strengthened. The burden we carry may not always be removed, but our backs will be built to carry the load placed upon them (see Mosiah 24:14–15).’ (Paragraph 19)

Can I identify occasions when the Lord has strengthened me rather than removed a difficulty?

‘The sacrament is a sacred ordinance that strengthens our relationship with the Savior.’ (Paragraph 20)

How can I make the sacrament a more meaningful weekly experience?

‘As we partake of the sacrament, we can ask ourselves, “What would He have me do?” As we remember Jesus Christ throughout the week and strive to keep His commandments, our lives are gradually refined and reshaped.’ (Paragraph 21)

During the week, how often do I remember the promises I make when partaking of the sacrament?

‘Covenants create a bond between us and God, and staying on the covenant path brings the promised blessings that come with that bond.’ (Paragraph 22)

What can I do to make my temple worship and covenant keeping more meaningful?

Invitations

‘My dear friends, I invite you to search the scriptures diligently, that you might know the word of God (see Alma 17:2). As we do this, little by little we learn how to become lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.’ (Paragraph 14)

‘Our Savior extended a remarkable invitation to all of us when He said, “Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:63).’ (Paragraph 15)

‘My beloved brothers and sisters, I invite you to always remember scriptures, prayers, the sacrament, and covenants. While they may seem small and simple, they are truly the armor of God that will help us stand against the tactics of the devil!’ (Paragraph 25)

Application

Elder Chugbundu’s four principles provide a simple but powerful pattern for lifelong discipleship:

• Scriptures help us know the Lord.
  
• Prayer helps us draw near to Him.
  
• The sacrament helps us remember Him.
  
• Covenants help us remain with Him.
  

If I consistently strengthened just one of these four areas of my spiritual life, what difference might it make to my faith and my ability to face life’s challenges?

You can watch Elder Chigbundu’s talk here.

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