Without challenges, we would remain much as we are

Sometimes there appears no light at the end of the tunnel. We become impatient for a solution, forgetting that frequently the heavenly virtue of patience is required.

Such difficulties provide the real test of our ability to endure.

Whenever we feel burdened down, let us remember others have passed the same way, have endured, and then have overcome.

Many have struggled and yet have remained steadfast.

The reason? They have made Jesus Christ the centre of their lives.

This will pull us through whatever comes our way.

We will still experience challenges, but will be able to meet them head on, and emerge victorious.

From the pillow wet with tears, we are lifted heavenward by that divine assurance: ‘I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee’. (Joshua1:5) Heavenly Father loves each of us. That love never changes. It is not influenced by appearance, possessions, our bank balance, talents or abilities.

Heavenly Father knows that we learn, grow and become stronger as we survive trials.

There are times when we will experience heart-breaking sorrow, tested to our limits. Such difficulties allow us to change for the better, rebuild our lives, become more understanding, more empathetic.

This should be our purpose – to persevere and endure but also become more spiritually refined as we experience sunshine and sorrow.

Without challenges, we would remain much as we are, with little progress toward our goal of eternal life.

As we seek Heavenly Father through fervent, sincere prayer and scripture study, we will know God’s love for us.

You will one day stand aside and look at your difficult times, and you will realise that He was always there beside you.

Bishop Aydin Arabacioglu The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints www.lds.org.uk