In a world of uncertainty, we often chase a “feeling of happiness” that comes and goes. At General Conference, Elder Gary B. Sabin reminded us of a simple, saving truth: lasting happiness isn’t built on circumstances but on the Foundation — Jesus Christ. When the foundation is sure, joy remains even in the storms.
1) Build on Christ
Temple foundations aren’t laid “by feel” but by a precise plan. So it is with life: prayer, scripture, the sacrament, and covenants aren’t “church chores” — they are the rebar of joy. When illness, loss, or uncertainty come, covenants keep the heart from despair and bring the peace that “passeth all understanding.”
Mini-step for this week: choose one habit to strengthen your foundation (e.g., a chapter from the Book of Mormon in the morning + a short gratitude prayer at night) and hold to it daily.
2) Remember Whose Child You Are
We are daughters and sons of a loving Heavenly Father. That’s not a nice slogan — it’s a new lens. When you remember your divine lineage, you stop chasing approval and start acting with cleaner motives, more courage, and more kindness.
Reflection question: if you made today’s decisions as a child of God, what would change — your tone, your words, your schedule?
3) Every Soul Is Precious — Choose Kindness
The Savior taught us to see people as holy, not as labels. In family, work, and online, that means: less judging, more forgiving; less sarcasm, more support. Kindness is spiritual power. It multiplies happiness in the giver and the receiver.
Today’s practice: do one specific act of kindness for a “difficult” person (a message of support, an apology, or quiet help with no credit).
4) Keep an Eternal Perspective
With God, the “after” matters more than the “now.” An eternal view doesn’t erase pain, but it removes its dominion. It restores joy in simple gifts — breath, family, prayer, belonging to the Covenant. We stop measuring ourselves by others’ timelines and start living with gratitude.
Joy habit: each evening, write down 3 small things you’re grateful for. It’s training your memory to feed your faith.
Quick Summary
- Foundation: Christ and covenants.
- Identity: children of Heavenly Father.
- Relationships: kindness over judgment.
- Lens: eternity over panic.
Brief Testimony
I know Jesus Christ is our Savior and the source of true joy. As we build on Him, remember who we are, and choose kindness, the Spirit brings peace and makes our hearts steady — no matter the headlines.
Adapted from Elder Gary B. Sabin, “The Signs of Happiness,” General Conference, October 2023. Read the full talk on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.