Elder David A. Bednar: 'Watching with all perseverance'

Spiritual early warning signals can be a source of protection and direction in one's life. They can be invaluable to parents who wish to be "watchful and discerning" concerning their children, said Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve.

The apostle outlined a spiritual early warning system that applies to children of all ages and contains three basic components: (1) reading and talking about the Book of Mormon with children, (2) bearing testimony of gospel truths spontaneously with children, and (3) inviting children as gospel learners to act.

Component 1: Reading and talking about the Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon is the most correct of any book on earth because it centers upon Jesus Christ and restores plain and precious truths, Elder Bednar reminded the congregation.

"Regular reading of and talking about the Book of Mormon invite the power to resist temptation and to produce feelings of love within our families," he said. "And discussions about the doctrines and principles in the Book of Mormon provide opportunities for parents to observe their children, to listen to them, to learn from them and to teach them."

Elder Bednar noted that youth of all ages can respond to the distinct spirit of the Book of Mormon. The questions, observations and discussions children share during their study can provide parents with crucial spiritual early warning signals, he said, and added that such conversations can help parents to discern what their children are learning, thinking and feeling about gospel truths, as well as the difficulties that may be facing.

Component 2: Bearing testimony spontaneously

"Parents should be vigilant and spiritually attentive to spontaneously occurring opportunities to bear testimony to their children," he said. "Such occasions need not be programmed, scheduled or scripted. In fact, the less regimented such testimony sharing is, the greater the likelihood for edification and lasting impact" (see Doctrine and Covenants 84:85).

A child's reaction to such impromptu testimony bearing and their eagerness or reluctance to participate are potent sources of spiritual early warning signals, Elder Bednar pointed out. He said a son's or daughter's candid statement of concern about a gospel principle can help parents better understand a child's specific question or need.

Component 3: Inviting children to act