Memoirs of an LDS Servant Teacher

Leading conversations in an uplifting, edifying and effective way.

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Most of us men were not taught the correct definition of Presiding.  Most of us were not taught how to lead a conversation with our spouse in an edifying and constructive way.  I hope this information helps.  -Maurice W. Harker

Presiding

  1. Retreat (man in the mountain) to hang out with God and decide the priorities for your stewardships.  It is important that this be done on a regular basis, and not just in moments of duress.  A true Presider values being a step ahead...not just waiting for catastrophes.  Within our bag of resources is access to the Spirit of Prophecy.  We can practice using this gift until we are able to, quite frequently, predict upcoming attacks on ourselves and our families, similar to the way Captain Moroni was able to predict and prepare for attacks on his people.

  2. Formulate a few ideas that would improve the stewardship.  Stephen Covey - Roles and Goals

    1. Write down your ideas until they are clear enough for someone else to understand.

  3. Initiate conversations with your wife about the topics discovered in step 1  "Hello wife, I have spent great energy on pondering and praying about the needs of…...

  4. Ask if she wants to add her thoughts and feelings on the subjects.

    -With a notebook, take notes on her thoughts and feelings about the ideas.

    -As you are listening, make brief comments and gestures representing that you are taking her seriously.   Reverence anything that comes out of her mouth.

    -When you have received enough information (for now), move on to #6

    -In more advanced relationships you can add clarification and collaboration.

  5. Retreat again and with the help of God get an accurate interpretation of what she is saying.  Write down those interpretations.  Then formulate a synergy of her ideas and yours. Including your consideration for the miracles that she has proposed. This should produce hybrid ideas.

  6. Return with a counter proposal based on your wisdom and inspiration and your awareness of any pending miracles God has in store for you.

  7. Leave room for the wife to grieve the human limitations and if the ideas are truly inspired, give her time to get her own 2nd witness and prepare emotionally for the challenges ahead.  Do not lose your compassion for how scary that is going to be for her.  CHARITY.

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