I just read in a news report that a billionaire investor spoke out, .
Whew. Not only did I write one long sentence, but the bad news may stay with us even longer! Yet as Latter-day Saints, or Mormons, this kind of news should not alarm us.
Why? Because our prophets have spoken for years that at some point life will be difficult.
One church leader, Elder Bruce R. McConkie, taught the same message. While he was serving as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder McConkie shared this message:
“Be it remembered that tribulations lie ahead … There will be earthquakes and floods and famines. The waves of the sea shall heave themselves beyond their bounds, the clouds shall withhold their rain, and the crops of the earth shall wither and die.
“There shall be plagues and pestilence and disease and death. An overflowering scourge shall cover the earth and a desolating sickness shall sweep the land …
“Bands of Gadianton robbers will infest every nation, immorality and murder and crime will increase, and it will seem as though every man’s hand is against his brother” (Ensign, May 1979, p 93).
This kind of knowledge used to frighten me. Until I realized the reason the Lord gave us this foreknowledge (through his servant) is to help us prepare for the very times of which even Bible prophets spoke.
In fact, the Lord told his disciples while He was still on the earth that those who trusted in Him in the last days would recognize the signs of the times prior to His coming. He also said those same faithful followers would be prepared (think of the fig tree and the wise virgins analogies).
Thus, when we see tribulation we can at least find comfort knowing the Lord knew of tribulation eons ago. When we witness earthquakes or floods or famines, we can know the Lord indeed warned of these centuries ago. And when we prepare for such times, not only will we better survive them, but we can feel greater calm during them.
In fact, as Mormons we believe the following truth found in the Book of Mormon:
“Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 2:25).
Our Heavenly Father loves us. He does not create war. He does not create the ugly choices of mankind. But He does allow us to learn from being here on the earth. And as the time draws near for His Son to return, the Lord is aware of the events that will transpire and has made those situations known.
Therefore, in the interest of receiving joy in this life, it would be best if we hearkened to His servants and prepare for the times not just ahead, but currently about us. This blog contains many tips on how to do just that. Check back often.
So even if economies fail, even if famines destroy the crops of the earth, know this – when we hearken to the Lord by heeding the counsel of His servants, we will be prepared and we need not fear.
