BYU–Hawaii Devotionals & Speeches

Jeff Christensen Associate Professor, Faculty of Business & Government; Director, Center for Hospitality & Tourism Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (April 7, 2026) Jeff Christensen teaches that Jesus Christ is the “perfect A,” illustrating that lives come into harmony only when aligned with Him through His Atonement. He shows that the Savior restores what is out of tune, aligns desires with God’s will, and magnifies even small, willing efforts. Jeff Christensen invites listeners to realign their lives with Christ through repentance, forgiveness, and intentional daily action. “When we place what little we have into the Savior’s hands, our efforts, our talents, our willingness to serve Him are amplified.” — Jeff Christensen Jeff Christensen is an Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Hospitality & Tourism Management Studies at BYU–Hawaii. He spent 24 years in global hospitality leadership and has traveled to 108 countries, using his experiences to teach how travel can foster understanding, service, and positive change. He and his wife Debbie are parents of three and strive to live Christlike values in their work and daily life. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Daniel Sharp Professor of Faculty of Culture, Language & Perfoming Arts Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (March 24, 2026) Daniel Sharp teaches that the Atonement of Jesus Christ serves as the central turning point of eternity by overcoming the effects of the Fall, ensuring resurrection, and offering all mankind a return to God’s presence. He explains that through the Atonement, Jesus Christ gains perfect empathy and authority to justly judge and succor humanity, having experienced all pain, temptation, and sin. He concludes that understanding the Atonement brings hope, inspires repentance, and enables lasting change through faith in Jesus Christ. “We study the Atonement not merely as an intellectual exercise, but because understanding the Atonement, the progress and hope that an empathetic Savior provides, can give us hope to change. It can comfort us. It will heal us. Of that, I testify.” — Daniel Sharp Daniel Sharp grew up in Canada, Thailand, and California. He joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at eighteen and served a mission in Campinas, Brazil. He is married to Carrie Rentz, and they have five sons and five grandchildren. Daniel earned a PhD in Religious Studies from Claremont Graduate University and has taught at BYU–Hawaii since 2011. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Elder Ronald M. Barcellos General Authority Seventy Brigham Young University–Hawaii Devotional (February 24, 2026) Elder Ronald M. Barcellos teaches that a testimony of Jesus Christ is the most powerful weapon against evil. Referring to the war in heaven, he explains that we overcame Satan through the Savior’s Atonement and “the word of [our] testimony,” and that we must gain and strengthen that testimony again in this life. He invites listeners to ask, seek, and knock through prayer, scripture study, and faithful obedience, promising that a growing testimony will protect them from doubt, deception, and the adversary’s attacks. “Brothers and Sisters, you were chosen by God to come to earth in these latter days because you were valiant in your testimony in the pre-mortal life.” — Elder Ronald M. Barcellos Elder Ronald M. Barcellos was sustained as a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April 2025. He has served in numerous Church callings, including full-time missionary in Brazil, bishop, stake presidency counselor, and mission president in Portugal. He studied business administration at São Marcos University in São Paulo, Brazil, and previously co-founded and led GreenMile, LLC. Elder Barcellos was born in São Paulo, Brazil, in 1975, is married to Karin Spat Albino Barcellos, and is the father of three children. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Joseph Plicka explores how embracing complexity and duality—the power of and over or—can lead to deeper understanding, better communication, and more meaningful lives. Discover how shifting your mindset can unlock new possibilities in work, relationships, and personal growth.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

President Benjamin Hanks shares powerful lessons from the Maui wildfires, showing how Jesus Christ walks with us often before we recognize Him. A message of hope, healing, and the quiet miracles found along the way.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

David Glen Hatch explores the immeasurable worth of every human soul. Through heartfelt reflections and biblical insights, he reminds us that each life carries eternal significance and divine purpose. Join us as we uncover the profound love God has for us and the powerful impact one soul can have on the world. Perfect for daily encouragement and spiritual growth, this devotional will renew your sense of hope and mission.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

In this BYU–Hawaii devotional, Aaron Shumway shares how the word “nevertheless” in the scriptures teaches us to choose faith in the face of difficulty. Through thoughtful examples and personal insight, he invites us to trust in God, even when life is uncertain. This message reminds us that nevertheless, we can move forward with courage and discipleship.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Join President Finau Hafoka and Sister Lucy Hafoka in this inspiring devotional as they explore the profound truth that our growth and discipleship are defined not just by knowledge, but by our actions and who we become. Through personal stories and gospel insights, they encourage listeners to live their faith actively, allowing their choices and character to reflect their beliefs. This uplifting message invites you to focus on becoming the person God wants you to be, turning knowledge into meaningful, Christlike living.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Isaiah Walker shares his personal journey and insights on the power of legacy and the importance of making an impact at BYU–Hawaii. Drawing from his experiences and faith, Isaiah emphasizes the lasting influence we all have on those around us, encouraging students to live with purpose and leave a legacy that aligns with the values of the gospel. Tune in for an uplifting message about creating a meaningful legacy at BYU–Hawaii and beyond.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Elder John C. Pingree Jr. explores the profound concepts of divine identity, belonging, and the transformative journey of becoming who God created us to be. Drawing on teachings from scripture and personal experiences, Elder Pingree reminds listeners that each of us is a beloved child of God, and our true identity is rooted in His love. He emphasizes how understanding our divine worth leads to a deeper sense of belonging and empowers us to become more like Christ, regardless of life’s challenges.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Sheri Dew explores the unique role of prophets as seer, individuals who can spiritually "see around corners" to guide us through life’s challenges. Drawing from personal experiences and examples of prophetic foresight, Dew emphasizes the importance of trusting and following prophetic counsel, especially when it seems counterintuitive or hard to understand. Tune in for a deeper understanding of how following the guidance of prophets can lead to greater spiritual safety and preparedness in uncertain times.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Melba Latu shares how her Tongan heritage and life experiences have shaped her understanding of identity, purpose, and courage. “Koau ʻeni” means “It is me” or “I am here,” a powerful declaration of readiness to act when called upon. She encourages us to stand with confidence in who we are, trust in divine timing, and respond to life's challenges with faith and humility.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.

Alohalani Housman shares personal experiences and gospel insights that teach us how to trust fully in the Lord's timing and guidance. From unexpected life changes to spiritual growth, she illustrates how leaning on the Lord, not our own understanding, can bring peace, purpose, and clarity. Through faith, humility, and daily discipleship, we can learn to let God direct our paths.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/byu-hawaii-devotionals-speeches--6571006/support.Visit byuh.edu to learn more.