Some people say that they would rather have their trials than someone else's. Some people say they would rather have any trial but their own. I'm not really sure where I fall, but I know God doesn't allow us to pick and choose our trials, they are chosen for us, to accomplish divine purposes.
The following is taken from the home page of a blog entitled "A Good Grief."
After the loss of her two year old daughter, Lucy, in 2008, Molly maintained her family blog, chronicling her grief. Resonating with people from all walks of life, her experience unveiled varied human suffering and like stories around the globe.
Molly started a blog where people share their stories of grief, but in a positive and transformative way. I sent her my own story of the grief I've suffered as the result of disappointed dreams of marriage and life. But to be sure, I recognize my grief as good in the sense that I am transforming into a better version of myself.
I have been inspired by the many stories I've read on Molly's blog, and the strength I can draw from those who also suffer. You can read what I wrote here or other stories of hope and healing here.
I read a talk recently from the church web-site...speaking about the Prophet Joseph Smith...Parts of the talk spoke to me..
ReplyDelete“fools shall have thee in derision, … if thou art called to pass through tribulation; … if thine enemies fall upon thee; … if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of murderers, … and all the elements combine to hedge up the way; and above all, if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee, know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” (D&C 122:1, 5–7). Then the profound statement: “The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he?” (verse 8). This is followed by clear direction and great promises. “Therefore, hold on thy way, and … fear not what man can do, for God shall be with you forever and ever” (verse 9).
Over the ensuing years, Joseph Smith continued to righteously endure a life full of adversity. He offered this faith-filled perspective: “And as for the perils which I am called to pass through, they seem but a small thing to me. … Deep water is what I am wont to swim in. … I … glory in tribulation; for … God … [has] delivered me out of them all, and will deliver me from henceforth” (D&C 127:2). Joseph’s confidence in overcoming constant opposition was based on his ability to continually turn to the Lord.
If you feel you have been wronged—by anyone (a family member, a friend, another member of the Church, a Church leader, a business associate) or by anything (the death of a loved one, health problems, a financial reversal, abuse, addictions)—deal with the matter directly and with all the strength you have. “Hold on thy way” (D&C 122:9); giving up is not an option. And, without delay, turn to the Lord. Exercise all of the faith you have in Him. Let Him share your burden. Allow His grace to lighten your load. We are promised that we will “suffer no manner of afflictions, save it were swallowed up in the joy of Christ” (Alma 31:38). Never let an earthly circumstance disable you spiritually.
Wife--I'm glad to see you on here. I was worried you had disappeared when you stopped posting. I'm glad you're still here to influence us all with your strength. Loved your comment. I think you'd really like the talk Call Upon God that I linked to in my most recent post. I just happened to listen to it the other day and he talks a lot about how much Joseph Smith endured and how he responded to affliction with charity and long suffering. It's hard to respond in a loving way, but I think that's something I really needed to learn.
ReplyDeleteJane--I love what you wrote on Molly's blog. I tend to just want my trials to go away, but I'm not sure I could have learned what I have without them. Sometimes it's a hard pill to swallow, but we are coming out stronger for it.