September 04, 2026 Devotional
Brian K. Ashton
President BYU-Pathway Worldwide
About the Speaker
Brian K. Ashton is the president of BYU-Pathway Worldwide and previously served as vice president of field operations. Receiving his bachelor’s degree from BYU and MBA degree from Harvard University, President Ashton has started several companies. He served as the Second Counselor in the Sunday School General Presidency from 2015–2019. He and his wife, Melinda, are the parents of seven children. Together, they presided over the Texas Houston South Mission from 2012–2015.
Instructions for Discussion
Below are suggested questions you can ask students to reflect on to help with your discussion. You may be inspired to ask different questions based on the needs of your group.
- President Ashton described several lessons he has learned from Joseph Smith's experience in the Sacred Grove. Which of these lessons are most special for you? Why?
- Our experiences will likely be different than those Joseph Smith had in the Sacred Grove and other places as he restored the Church to the earth. For many people, the Holy Ghost may feel like a warm, peaceful feeling. For other people, it may come as clear thoughts and ideas. There are many ways to receive answers to prayers. Learning to recognize the Holy Ghost will be a blessing to you throughout your life. How does the Holy Ghost teach you things that are true?
- Joseph Smith went to the Sacred Grove where he could be alone to pray to ask the questions that were in his heart. Where do you go to pray? How do you create a quiet place without distractions where you can receive answers to the questions you have?
- Joseph Smith recorded his experiences so that we can read them today. As we read about his experiences, we can learn lessons to help us when we have questions in our lives. How do you record your spiritual lessons so you can remember and review them throughout your life?