4 May 2020

Edified: Insights for LDS Women
Episode #3: "Through the Fire," Trusting God in Times of Trial

In this episode, I look at some ways we can strengthen our connection to the Savior by learning to trust him in our times of trial. 

On December 17, 2010, I saw the Provo Tabernacle engulfed in flames. That beautiful, historic building held within its walls such beautiful memories and such a rich pioneer heritage! I could not bear to watch. At the same time, I could not look away. A few moments later, the roof caved in, and everyone watching knew that the tabernacle was gone.  Why? For what purpose would the Lord allow such a huge part of our heritage to burn to the ground?

So it is with us. Something devastating happens and we wonder why the Lord would allow us to experience so much loss and sorrow. I share insights from two of my daughters-in-law who had struggled with doubting their faith. Each share how she came to trust the Lord during her trials.

Key Points

• The adversary wants you to stop trusting the Lord. Feelings of fear, doubt, and frustration do not come from the Holy Ghost. 
• Eliminate the things in your life that are not serving you. Replace them with thoughts and actions that will strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ.
• Visualize yourself with the Savior in Gethsemane--in the far outer borders.
• Lean-in. We can’t feel the Savior’s comforting embrace if we are pulling away from him. 
• Ask the Lord to help align your will with His.

Elder Boyd K. Packer compared the Plan of Redemption to a three-act play.  The line, “And they lived happily ever after,” is never written into the second act. “That line belongs in the third act when the mysteries are solved and everything is put right.”

When the Provo City Center Temple was built in place of the tabernacle, all the tears of sorrow and loss turned to tears of joy. It’s the same for each of us. God has no intention of making us “as we once were.” His plan is to make us like Him. 

Resources:

• “Provo Tabernacle to Rise from the Ashes as a Temple” --Deseret News
• “Life’s a Play: The Plan of Salvation in 3 Acts” -- Margaret Willden
• “The Great Plan of Happiness” -- Teacher Manual, Church Website 
• "Trust in the Lord" -- Richard G. Scott
• "For Times of Trial" -- Jeffrey R. Holland
• "Through the Fire" -- Lyrics by Gerald Crabb, performed by Jason Crabb
  (YOU HAVE GOT TO LISTEN TO THIS!)

DOT Invitation: Approach prayer with a sincere desire to align our will to the will of our Father in Heaven. 

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