Gospel Learning and Teaching

My thoughts on Brother McConkie's talk "Gospel Learning and Teaching"

"A successful teacher and author said: “What matters most in learning is attitude. The attitude of the teacher.” "

As I'm not a "teacher" in church (I play piano in primary) I have taken this to my homeschooling. What is my attitude in teaching my children. Do I just want to get it done to check off a box, or do I really want my kids to know what I'm teaching? Do I want them to learn something that will help them? I have to ask this same questions when the teens start acting up when I'm trying to do family home evening or scripture study. Is this just another check on my "to do" list? What is MY attitude?

"Successful gospel teachers love the gospel. They are excited about it. And because they love their students, they want them to feel as they feel and to experience what they have experienced. To teach the gospel is to share your love of the gospel."

Amen to this statement! I know often I get excited about what I've learned and yet, I don't share it because I know it will not be received well. As a learner, I wonder if the teacher is holding back because of my attitude towards her? Is she sharing everything?

Brother McConkie talks a little bit about "reading the handbook". How often do I not read the handbook. But then I also think, "But I am reading the handbook, I just don't know where to read to find the answer. Please guide me." So first immerse yourself in the scriptures.

Second, "apply in your life the things you learn." I think of a son who constantly calls us hypocrites. Do I truly apply the things I have learned? Is there room for a sinner to repent and change her ways?

Third, "seek heaven's help." Don't forget he loves those we teach as more than we do. Do we seek for His guidance?

Fourth, "exercise our agency and act... with the spiritual promptings we receive." I often fall short here.

How good of a teacher am I? How good of a learner am I? Do I seek the Lord's help in both areas?