Self-Reliance
The Lord has said, “It is my purpose to provide for my saints . . . but it must needs be done in mine own way” (Doctrine and Covenants 104:15, 16). This is a promise that Heavenly Father will help take care of His children as they follow Him. “Self-reliance is the ability, commitment, and effort to provide the spiritual and temporal necessities of life for self and family.” (Handbook 2: Administering the Church) Self-reliance does not mean that we can accomplish or obtain everything we want. However, we know as we become more self-reliant, through the power of Christ, and through our own effort, we can work to provide the spiritual and practical needs of life. Many people can become more self-reliant, and self-reliance classes are the tool to help.
Classes begin a few times a year with small groups of people from our stake meeting weekly. Groups usually meet in person, but you can discuss with your group what works best. Groups are focused on one of five areas: employment, education, emotional resilience, personal finances, or starting and growing a business. If you’d like to join a class, please contact your ward Relief Society or Elders Quorum president to sign up.
Twelve Principles of Self-Reliance
Exercise Faith in Jesus Christ (D&C 104:15)
Use Time Wisely (Alma 34:32)
Be Obedient (D&C 130:20–21)
Manage Money (D&C 104:78)
Work: Take Responsibility (D&C 42:42; 2 Nephi 2:16, 26)
Solve Problems (Ether 2:18–19, 23; 3:1, 4)
Become One, Work Together (Moses 7:18; D&C 104:15–17)
Communicate: Petition and Listen (D&C 8:2)
Persevere (Hebrews 12:1; D&C 58:4)
Show Integrity (Mosiah 4:28; Job 27:5; Articles of Faith 1:13)
Seek Learning and Education (D&C 88:118–119)
Stay On Task, Receive Ordinances (D&C 84:20; D&C 136:4; 1 Nephi 18:2–3)
Education for Better Work (10 weeks)
Finding Strength in the Lord: Emotional Resilience (10 weeks)
Find a Better Job (10 weeks)
Personal Finance (12 weeks)
Starting and Growing My Business (12 weeks)
Groups will meet for 90-120 minutes each week for 10-12 weeks. A facilitator will guide the discussion. There will be learning activities to complete between classes. If you are interested in signing up, please ask your bishop. Additional information for each course of study can be found by clicking on the group names above.