I would have a question that I know
has come up in many of our faculty discussions
and in services.
And that is on one side, we know that we're
instructed to adhere to a specific block
to stay grounded in the scriptures.
And our preparation often follows that training.
And I know there's a conflict that many of us
feel about getting into the class
and having the Spirit lead in the direction that
is other than the block that you've prepared.
I just wonder how we handle that.
Or maybe Elder Oaks, If you have any advice for how
to balance staying grounded in the scriptures,
but also following the directives of the Spirit.
President Packer has often taught in my hearing
that we first adopt, then we adapt.
And if we are thoroughly grounded
in the prescribed lesson that we're to give,
then we can follow the Spirit to adapt it.
But there's a temptation when we speak about this flexibility
to start off by adapting rather than adopting.
It's a balance.
It's a continual challenge.
But the approach of adopting first and then adapting
is a good way to stay on sound ground.
And if you find yourself constantly working off
in another direction, you need to question whether you're
really doing to follow inspiration
or to follow personal preference.