Conference Talk of the Week

Overview

Elder Ulisses Soares teaches that Jesus Christ is “the true vine” and we are the branches, so real spiritual strength and growth come only by consistently abiding in Him through our covenants, the Holy Ghost, and heed to His voice (including the voice of His called servants). He warns that in a world of many persuasive voices, especially through modern media, some “vines” look legitimate but quietly pull us toward doubt, division, and hollow promises. Remaining connected to Christ is essential for bringing forth good fruit, enduring burdens with grace, and recognizing the Savior’s living influence in our daily lives.

Three Key Takeaways

• 1Abiding in Christ is a constant, conscious choice: letting His teachings shape our thoughts, words (including online), and actions, and letting our covenants guide daily decisions through the Holy Ghost.
• 2Jesus being the “true” vine implies there are other “vines” that mimic goodness or even sound religious but ultimately entangle us in philosophies, media-driven messages, and vain deceit that weaken our connection to Christ.
• 3Staying connected to the True Vine helps us recognize and trust the Savior’s voice as it comes through His ordained servants; Elder Soares illustrates this with the peace he felt when Elder Jeffrey R. Holland called him to the Quorum of the Twelve.

Reflection Questions

• What are the main “voices” (media, accounts, habits, philosophies, routines) competing for my attention right now, and which ones leave me more connected, or less connected, to Jesus Christ afterward?
• How are my covenants currently influencing my everyday choices, especially in digital spaces (what I consume, post, or argue about), and what is one specific adjustment that would better reflect “abide in me, and I in you”?
• When have I recently recognized the Savior’s voice through His servants (scripture, conference, leaders, parents, ministering brothers/sisters), and what did that invitation ask me to do next?