Trials & Experience

"There is not a single condition of life or one hour's experience but what is beneficial to all those who make it their study, and aim to improve upon the experience they gain."
-President Brigham Young (TPC, p.179)

The revelations, for which we are grateful, show that we should even give thanks for our afflictions because they turn our hearts to God and give us opportunities to prepare for what God would have us become.
-Elder Dalin H. Oaks

Ether 12:27 - And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.

What am I Learning?

Doctrine & Covenants 122:7: "And if thou shouldst be cast into the pit, or into the hands of murderers, and the sentence of death passed upon thee; if thou be cast into the deep; if the billowing surge conspire against thee; if fierce winds become thine enemy; if the heavens gather blackness, 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."

When ever times are difficult, I always try to think of this scripture. There are two reasons: First, it makes me realize things could always be worse, but second, and more importantly, what can I learn from this situation? What is the lesson that I need so that I can grow in faith and strengthen my testimony. All of our trials are given to us to perfect us. It says many times in the scriptures that blessings come after the trial of our faith. I truly believe that. We are always better and stronger after having experienced "the refiners fire".

Happy Day!
-Jeri