August 2006 Ensign - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

10
The pioneers
could not have
imagined how
their trials would
help prepare the way
for the growth
of the Church.
A Learning Process
In 1846 the persecuted Saints were driven to Winter
Quarters and ultimately to the valley of the Great Salt Lake.
It is clear that the Saints living in Nauvoo, Illinois, intended
to make it their home. Yet this was not to be. They felt great
disappointment and sorrow when they received word that
they must pack their belongings and move to another
place. As they crossed the bleak and dreary deserts and
mountains of the pioneer trail, they did not know that the
Church simply could not accomplish all it needed to while
confined to the center part of the United States. The western
part of the North American continent provided the economic
and natural resources needed for the establishment
of the Church. The pioneers could not have imagined how
the adversity they faced would contribute to the vibrant
growth of the Lord’s kingdom on the earth.
When facing a trial, many people have asked, “Why me?”
Some have become bitter and angry. Others have recognized
that their adversity is a teaching experience. Learning
often becomes more acute and precise and has greater
depth when brought about by adversity.
Many of the most important principles of intelligence
cannot be taught at universities, from books, or through
other temporal learning processes. Often these great principles
are learned from afflictions, tribulations, and other
mortal experiences. All that we learn in this manner will
benefit us not only in this life but also in the next, for
“whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this
life, it will rise with us in the resurrection” (D&C 130:18).
Some time ago a doctor told me that I was suffering
from a serious illness. I recall the shock and emotion I felt
as the doctor explained the condition that would alter the
course of my life. It is easy to become angry and critical in
these situations. I have friends who have learned they have
cancer or heart disease or who have faced impairments
resulting from accidents. I have watched as these people
have adjusted to their situations, and I have wondered why
they were given a particular challenge. Many people are
locked into political systems and economic situations that
cause enormous distress. I have observed many people in
different lands who struggle just to have enough food to
eat. Yet there must be a learning process. Even the most
challenged can learn from their trials and find consolation
from a loving Heavenly Father.
Examples from the Scriptures
Many have asked, “Why do bad things happen to good
people? If the Lord really loves us, why does He allow
adversity in our lives?” Consider the example of Job. He
“was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and
eschewed evil” (Job 1:1). Shouldn’t a person’s righteousness
bring protection from adversity and tribulation?
LEFT: NAUVOO FAREWELL: THE EXODUS BEGINS, BY FRANK THOMAS; RIGHT: ILLUSTRATED BY EMILY DYCHES