Elder Renlund Teaches the Rising Generation in Korea About Their Infinite Worth in God’s Plan

Photo

On May 17, 2025, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gathered with youth and in Busan to share messages of divine worth, obedience to God’s commandments and the transformative power of the Book of Mormon. The meeting, held amid the intense academic pressures faced by Korean youth, emphasized faith, resilience and trust in Heavenly Father’s plan.

Sister Sister Seongmi Sue Kim opened the meeting with gratitude for the opportunity to gather with fellow Saints. She acknowledged the unique challenges Korean youth face, including rigorous academic demands and early private education. Referencing Elder Dale G. Renlund’s teachings, she reminded attendees that God’s goal is for His children to choose righteousness. “The prophets have taught that our rising generation are chosen spirits of Heavenly Father, sent to earth at this time to do important work,” she said.

Elder Christopher H. Kim, Second Counselor in the Asia North Area Presidency, addressed the rising generation directly, thanking them for prioritizing faith despite school commitments. He taught about having “confidence in God’s presence,” encouraging youth to approach Heavenly Father with assurance, trusting in His love and the of His angels. “It means being confident that He loves us more than we can comprehend and sends angels to us and those we love,” Elder Kim affirmed, inspiring confidence in divine guidance.

Sister Ruth Renlund shared a personal story from an African safari to illustrate the protective role of God’s commandments. “They’re given to help protect us and ensure a good experience in this mortal life,” she said. She urged youth to trust God, embrace their divine identity, and follow His commandments to find joy now and eternally.

Elder Dale G. Renlund, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, delivered a powerful message on the infinite worth of individuals, demonstrated through Jesus Christ’s Atonement. Using real-world examples — such as high-priced auction items once owned by famous individuals — he illustrated that a person’s worth is defined by what Christ paid: an infinite price. Citing Doctrine and Covenants 18:10–13, Elder Renlund emphasized that Christ’s sacrifice enables repentance, overcomes death and rectifies life’s unfairness for all.

He referenced the children’s song “Gethsemane,” describing the Atonement as “the greatest battle that ever was won.” Drawing on the movie “The Lion King,” Elder Renlund likened Simba’s journey to reclaim his kingdom to the personal battle for one’s divine destiny. “Heavenly Father offers everything, but we must follow His path, not shortcuts,” he said.

Reflecting on his career as a heart transplant specialist, Elder Renlund compared patients’ resistance to medical treatment to spiritual reluctance to follow God’s commandments. He also shared a childhood story of misusing his father’s axe, resulting in injury, to illustrate the dangers of stepping outside God’s “safety zone.” “When we get outside of our safety zone, we're no longer protected,” he said. “The Apostle Paul talked about putting on the armor of God. When you put armor on, you do not want to leave any gaps.”

He emphasized that scriptures, living prophets and Church guidance protect against spiritual harm. Recounting a formative experience at age 11 in Sweden, he described how reading and praying about the Book of Mormon confirmed its truth and solidified his testimony of Jesus Christ, Joseph Smith and the restored Church.

In closing, Elder Renlund declared the truth of the Book of Mormon, the divinity of Jesus Christ and the divine role of the Church. He challenged the youth: “This is your kingdom. If you don’t fight for it, who will?” His words underscored the Church’s need for their faith and the promise that God’s work will fill the earth.

The messages resonated deeply with attendees, offering hope and direction to youth navigating a competitive and often confusing world.

The messages shared in Busan deeply resonated with the youth in attendance, inspiring personal reflection and renewed spiritual commitment.

Junha Park (18) said he was especially touched by Elder Renlund’s message about divine worth. “I came to understand more deeply how much God loves me — far more than I can imagine,” he shared. The experience led him to reflect on his efforts to live according to God’s commandments. “I want to pray more sincerely and strive to follow the path He has given me.” He also testified of the Savior’s Atonement, expressing a renewed conviction that Jesus Christ’s infinite sacrifice came from a place of immeasurable love.

Hyunhwan Nam (18) was moved by Elder Renlund’s story of gaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon at age 11. “It made me ask myself — do I have that same conviction?” he said. He committed to seeking a deeper testimony through study and prayer. He also reflected on Sister Hong’s encouragement to connect personal development with discipleship. “I was reminded that Christ gave everything for us. That love touched me again.”

Harang Seong (18) found Sister Renlund’s safari story especially memorable. “It made me think about whether I’ve truly been living the gospel,” she said. “I’ve had moments of doubt, but I learned that sincere prayer and scripture study can help me find truth.” She left the meeting with a desire to deepen her understanding of the restored gospel and a stronger sense of the Savior’s love.

Dana Kim (19) expressed gratitude for the rare opportunity to see a living Apostle in person. “It was powerful to hear his voice and feel the Spirit,” she said. She was especially touched by Elder Renlund’s testimony of the Book of Mormon, recalling how reading 3 Nephi during her senior year brought her to tears. “I felt the Savior ministering to me through living prophets.” She also shared her desire to continue growing in the gospel as a single adult and to live a faithful life. “The Savior’s Atonement is for each of us individually, and the blessings it brings are immense.”