Topic

Plan of Salvation

The plan of salvation, also referred to as the plan of happiness, describes God’s plan for the growth, perfection, and eternal joy of His children. The plan of salvation includes the Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The laws, ordinances, and doctrines of the gospel as well as our moral agency are essential elements of the plan. The purpose of our Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation is to provide a way for us to return to live with Him again in eternal relationships and to become as He is.

In the plan of salvation, we find answers to some of life’s greatest questions: Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where do we go after this life? Elements of the plan are presented throughout The Book of Mormon and have been revealed and taught by latter-day prophets. These divine truths bring meaning to the trials, loss, and hardships we experience in life on earth; we are comforted through our faith in the goodness of God and His enduring love for us, as evidenced through His plan.

Many BYU devotionals address the plan of salvation, testifying of its truthfulness or exploring specific elements of the plan. As you read, listen to, or watch these devotional addresses, you will gain a deeper understanding of God’s plan of happiness and your role in it.

By Study & By Faith

Brett G. Scharffs October 18, 2016

Jean Bethke Elshtain October 24, 2006

Gary B. Sabin | November 7, 2023

We must follow Christ by exercising faith and keeping an eternal perspective to fulfill life’s mission and return with honor to our Father in Heaven.

devotional 2023

Paul V. Johnson | March 14, 2023

God doesn't use big battalions of soldiers to accomplish His purposes; He sends beautiful babies who go on to bless the world.

devotional 2023

W. Christopher Waddell | October 12, 2021

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell shares ways to stay connected to the one true source of knowledge—Jesus Christ—so we can make it safely back home to our Father in Heaven.

devotional 2021

BYU associate professor Melissa F. Western.

Melissa F. Western | July 14, 2021

Melissa Western shares how she came to know the Savior, and her testimony that we can each replace our fear with lasting peace from Him.

devotional 2021

Kim B. Clark | March 20, 2018

Kim B. Clark teaches that as we embrace the plan God has for each one of us, we will find the power to overcome our personal crucibles.

devotional 2018

Kevin J Worthen | January 9, 2018

Through the lens of the plan of salvation, we gain perspective that helps us deal with questions, frustrations, and even crippling challenges.

devotional 2018

Brett G. Scharffs | October 18, 2016

As presented by an expert in international law and religion, LDS doctrine is characterized by unique and even audacious beliefs.

forum 2016

Marcus B. Nash | February 2, 2016

Exercising faith in God’s plan leads to eternal life. If we are faithful, we will be guided safely home.

devotional 2016

Larry M. Gibson | March 11, 2014

We can better follow Heavenly Father's plan for us when we invite the companionship of the Holy Ghost.

devotional 2014

L. Tom Perry | October 30, 2007

God has a great plan for all of His children. His promises are sure, and have manifested themselves in each dispensation of time.

devotional 2007

Jean Bethke Elshtain | October 24, 2006

Political philosophy professor Jean Bethke Elshtain, citing C.S. Lewis, warns against tampering with our definition of what is human and deserving of life.

forum 2006

Elder D. Todd Christofferson, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

D. Todd Christofferson | January 31, 2006

By using our God-given moral agency in the way that Jesus Christ exemplified, we don't become God's puppets—we become like Him.

devotional 2006

President M. Russell Ballard, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

M. Russell Ballard | April 24, 2003

By keeping the Lord’s plan of happiness in your sights, you can focus on what matters most in mortality and beyond.

commencement 2003

Boyd K. Packer | February 2, 2003

Mortal bodies are the instrument of the mind and the foundation of character. Care for and protect it from the spiritual dangers of the world.

devotional 2003

Bruce L. Brown | August 4, 1998

Bruce L. Brown testifies that modern prophets have revealed and will continue to reveal important truths about the great plan of redemption.

devotional 1998

Dallin H. Oaks—first counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Dallin H. Oaks | October 11, 1987

God's plan includes agency, the freedom to choose. That cannot be taken away, but our freedom, or ability to act on our choices, can.

devotional 1987

Royden G. Derrick | June 14, 1983

Agency is central to the Plan of Salvation. Using it to follow God's commandments gives us true independence and power over our destiny.

devotional 1983

Marion D. Hanks | November 16, 1982

With the Plan of Salvation, a knowledge of who we are, and a testimony of the gospel, we have a fuller understanding of life.

devotional 1982

Bruce R. McConkie | February 17, 1981

The Creation, the Fall, and the Atonement are the foundations of salvation. As we understand them better, we can live to gain eternal life.

devotional 1981

Bruce R. McConkie | September 5, 1976

The gospel that we believe and preach is that of the original apostles—the gospel of Jesus Christ and Him crucified. That truth can change lives.

devotional 1976

Bruce R. McConkie | August 15, 1972

Though the plan of salvation is universal, it is also extremely personal. Each of us must follow our own path of repentance, covenant-making, and obedience.

devotional 1972