When the going gets rough, perhaps what we need most is not what we first expect. To assume immediate problem resolution is in our best interest may not always be the case. When we stop and think about what really matters, perhaps the most beautiful and unexpected gift is peace.
Just prior to the Lord’s ascension to heaven, he offered his grieving and fearful apostles assurance that he would not leave them comfortless. He gives us the very same promise.
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. John 14:18
We are never alone. He has organized his kingdom on earth to lift us when we crave his support and help most. We just need eyes to see what he already sees in us: children with a divine lineage.
Eighty percent of what happens to you is to provide opportunities for you to help and serve your fellowmen and in turn allow them to help you. The compassion you espouse and the empathy in your heart is given so you may aid those in your midst who stand in need of succor. That we all might see this vision and apply true principles to benefit our fellowmen in all generations is the great plan of happiness and the gospel of Jesus Christ in action.
My wife loves chick flicks, and with five daughters, we watch them frequently. We have assembled quite a collection of movies after all these years. But none of the DVDs are as romantic as the account in the Bible of how Jacob loved Rachel and served seven years for her hand in marriage. Genesis 29:18
These verses tell about an experience of a young man, Jacob, who was smitten with the beautiful and well favored daughter of Laban, Rachel. He said that he would serve Laban for seven years for her hand in marriage, but because of his love for Rachel, the time flew by.
And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.
He actually served a lot longer than that for Rachel in the end, but I’m sure he told Rachel every day she was worth it. You, too, are a person of great worth.
I thought that was a unique love story, until I watched this. Enjoy!
Elder Richard G. Scott has said:
“No one wants adversity. Trials, disappointments, sadness, and heartache come to us from two basically different sources. Those who transgress the laws of God will always have those challenges. The other reason for adversity is to accomplish the Lord’s own purposes in our life that we may receive the refinement that comes from testing. It is vitally important for each of us to identify from which of these two sources come our trials and challenges, for the corrective action is very different.
If you are suffering the disheartening effects of transgression, please recognize that the only path to permanent relief from sadness is sincere repentance with a broken heart and a contrite spirit. Realize your full dependence upon the Lord and your need to align your life with His teachings. There is really no other way to get lasting healing and peace. Postponing humble repentance will delay or prevent your receiving relief. Admit to yourself your mistakes and seek help now. Your bishop is a friend with keys of authority to help you find peace of mind and contentment. The way will be opened for you to have strength to repent and be forgiven.
Now may I share some suggestions with you who face the second source of adversity, the testing that a wise Heavenly Father determines is needed even when you are living a worthy, righteous life and are obedient to His commandments.
To read more of Walter’s articles, click the picture.
Just when all seems to be going right, challenges often come in multiple doses applied simultaneously. When those trials are not consequences of your disobedience, they are evidence that the Lord feels you are prepared to grow more (see Prov. 3:11–12). He therefore gives you experiences that stimulate growth, understanding, and compassion which polish you for your everlasting benefit. To get you from where you are to where He wants you to be requires a lot of stretching, and that generally entails discomfort and pain.”
These videos, Elder Scott’s words, and my message above are all to bring hope and show you how much your life will be blessed as we go forward despite our trials. I hope you have found comfort in these thoughts as I have.
In 1989, Walter Penning formed a consultancy based in Salt Lake City and empowered his clients by streamlining processes and building a loyal, lifetime customer base with great customer service. His true passion is found in his family. He says the best decision he ever made was to marry his sweetheart and have children. The wonderful family she has given him and her constant love, support, and patience amid life's challenges is his panacea.
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