Corey and I are having a difficult time right now. Not maritally, just in other aspects of our lives. As we’ve been going through this rough spot, we’ve been trying to put our trust in the Lord and to have faith and hope that things will work out. We’re also trying to have patience because we know things will work out; it’s just a matter of time.
As I’ve been trying to deal with the stress and uncertainty that I’ve been feeling, I’ve been doing a lot of praying and reading. Not only am I grateful for the little joys found during difficult times, I’m also grateful for the guidance I receive through the words of the prophets. I know I wouldn’t be able to get through this time without them.
In the October 2008 General Conference, President Uchtdorf said:
Hope … is like the beam of sunlight rising up and above the horizon of our present circumstances. It pierces the darkness with a brilliant dawn. It encourages and inspires us to place our trust in the loving care of an eternal Heavenly Father, who has prepared a way for those who seek for eternal truth in a world of relativism, confusion, and of fear.
In the September 2002 First Presidency Message, President Monson said:
Life is full of difficulties, some minor and others of a more serious nature. There seems to be an unending supply of challenges for one and all. Our problem is that we often expect instantaneous solutions to such challenges, forgetting that frequently the heavenly virtue of patience is required.
The counsel heard in our youth is still applicable today and should be heeded. “Hold your horses,” “Keep your shirt on,” “Slow down,” “Don’t be in such a hurry,” “Follow the rules,” “Be careful” are more than trite expressions. They describe sincere counsel and speak the wisdom of experience.
The mindless and reckless speeding of a youth-filled car down a winding and hazardous canyon road can bring a sudden loss of control, the careening of the car with its precious cargo over the precipice, and the downward plunge that ofttimes brings permanent incapacity, perhaps premature death, and grieving hearts of loved ones. The glee-filled moment can turn in an instant to a lifetime of regret.
Oh, precious youth, please give life a chance. Apply the virtue of patience.
I don’t remember exactly when President Hinckley said this, but it’s one of my favorite quotes. You may recognize it from the C’est La Vie post. ;)
It isn’t as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don’t worry. I say that to myself every morning. It all works out in the end. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers.
These passages have been such a help to me. When I feel like I’m being dragged down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, I try to remember these passages. I try to exercise faith and trust in the Lord. I know things will be okay. It’s just a matter of pushing that fear out of the way to let faith and hope stand there instead.
Also, because it’s the anniversary of the planes hitting the twin towers in New York City, I’d like to share this video. It has also helped me during this time of struggle and difficulty. It’s a message of peace and finding hope.
