And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness.
2 Nephi 5:27
The theme for this year is Use the gems of His happiness. It reminds us to choose the things that bring real joy. As Apostle Holland teaches, happy people walk a certain path and we can walk it too. While we learn, celebrate and spend time together, we also keep our focus on the Lord Jesus Christ. Our hope is that this theme shapes the atmosphere of the entire event. To help you connect with it in a personal way, you will find a short study suggestion below.
His plan for our salvation is often called “the great plan of happiness.”
He sent His Beloved Son to carry out the atonement so we can be happy in this life and receive a fulness of joy in the eternities.
Often in life we can make the mistake of believing that happiness consists only of having fun or not having any problems. However, according to the Book of Mormon, lasting happiness as a follower of Jesus Christ consists of much more. Nephi said, “We lived after the manner of happiness” (2 Nephi 5:27)
But did that mean they were happy because they had easy lives? Of course not! In 2 nephi 4, Nephi describes problems that frustrated him. In chapter 5, we learn what true happiness consists of.
What did Nephi and his people do that brought them happiness?
What does “living after the manner of happiness” mean to me personally?
Am I living after the manner of happiness?
What can I change in my life in order to be able to live after the manner of happiness?
Write down your thoughs and feelings, then act on the inspiration you have received.