Many times in our lives, we are asked to do hard things. But when we turn to Christ, we will be given strength to bear these burdens, just as he strengthened the people of Alma that their burdens became light.

As we examine our lives, we can choose to find gratitude for the goodness and the blessings that come with difficulty and disappointment.

It’s easy to look at changes and wonder how God could be unchangeable. But these changes reflect our understanding and preparedness for a higher law, not a change in God or his doctrines and principles.

We are not imposters. We need to remember our loving Heavenly Father. He knows everything about us, from our best to our worst, and he loves us anyway.

When we do seemingly small things on a regular basis, we are building up the brushstrokes of a beautiful masterpiece. Our homes will be strengthened as our faith grows. As Alma taught, “by small and simple things are great things brought to pass.”

Jesus Christ knew his time was short. He knew what was coming. And he had faith to face it, even when his disciples were too tired or afraid.

Sometimes, we fall a little short. We make mistakes. We give in to temptations. We fail to be our best selves. But we can always try again, because perfection is pending.