Importance of Trials

In my institute class, "The Gospel and the Productive Life" this week, we discussed the importance of trials. In this class, we discuss how we keep a gospel perspective throughout our lives on a daily basis. Trials are important for us to go through because it allows us to grow spiritually and temporally. We also have the trials so we can share the lessons we learn with others. The class reminded me of many experiences that I have had where I had to learn to trust in the Lord that I would learn something from this and that it was important for me to go through. It was an experience that caused me to have my life flash before my eyes. I experienced the natural reaction of anger that this was happening to me. I knew that anger is not condusive with the spirit and so I tried to let it go. After battling with myself for probably an hour, I realized that I had two options. I could either be angry and ask Heavenly Father why, or turn to the Lord and find or figure out why it was happening and what I need to learn. If I had chosen to be angry, my ability to have the spirit with me would have diminished into nothing. I chose to figure out why, and came to find out it was an act of mercy. By knowing what my potential health issues could be, I came to appreciate my health even more. I came to understand what taking care of myself means. I was able to share my experiences with others who never would have been able to handle what I went through. Just like they have experienced things that I would never be able to go through. This gospel is an opportunity for growth and development that comes from our own experiences and that of others. May we be patient in Trials and may be always look for our own opportunities for growth.

I say these things in the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen

-Carole Stoddard