Confidence in the Presence of God
Jesus Christ and Your New Beginning | Patrick Kearon | October 2025 General Conference
One of the greatest blessings available to every disciple of Jesus Christ is the ability to approach Heavenly Father with confidence. Through the Savior’s Atonement and our faithful covenant relationship with Him, we can pray with assurance, seek divine guidance, and know that our Father in Heaven hears and loves us.
In this inspiring General Conference message, President Russell M. Nelson teaches that true confidence is not rooted in worldly success, personal ability, or self-reliance. Instead, it grows as we become more like Jesus Christ. As charity fills our hearts and virtue guides our thoughts and actions, we draw nearer to God and experience a peace that the world cannot give.
President Nelson reminds us that every person will face trials, disappointment, temptation, and loss. While these experiences can weaken self-confidence, they need not diminish our confidence in the Lord. As we faithfully keep our covenants, seek the companionship of the Holy Ghost, and strive to live with greater love and purity, we discover that God welcomes us into His presence with mercy and grace.
The Prophet also renews his invitation to become peacemakers. In a world filled with anger, contention, and division, followers of Jesus Christ are called to respond with kindness, patience, and Christlike love. Charity is not simply an admirable quality - it is the very foundation of discipleship.
Temple worship also plays a central role in this message. Time spent in the house of the Lord refines our character, strengthens our faith, and prepares us for the Savior’s Second Coming. As we make the temple a priority, our confidence before God increases, and we receive greater spiritual power to face life’s challenges.
Questions to Ponder
- Am I approaching God with faith and confidence?
- Are my thoughts becoming more virtuous each day?
- Do I treat others with Christlike charity, even when it is difficult?
- Is temple worship helping me prepare for the Savior’s return?
Every step we take toward greater charity and virtue brings us closer to Jesus Christ. As we seek to become more like Him, fear gives way to faith, uncertainty is replaced with peace, and our confidence before God continues to grow.
Key Scripture: “Let thy bowels also be full of charity toward all men, … and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God.” - Doctrine and Covenants 121:45
Key Takeaway: Lasting confidence is not found in ourselves but in Jesus Christ. As we cultivate charity, pursue virtue, honor our covenants, and worship in the temple, we can approach our Heavenly Father with faith, peace, and joyful assurance.