Looking on the Bright Side

BY: Bethany Mulder

This post is for those who have ever had a doubt, a struggle, a challenge. Life is not always easy; as I’m sure you are well aware. With this being the case then, I am so grateful for the guidance and encouragement that I’ve received in my life from the gospel of Jesus Christ. Within the gospel, I have the examples of incredibly powerful women, revelatory discourses, and a multitude of spiritual materials to help me work through my most difficult challenges. 

For example, Elder Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, shared an inspiring talk entitled: "Come What May and Love It." In this talk, he stressed the importance of reacting positively to trials and enduring them well. He said, “If we approach adversities wisely, our hardest times can be times of greatest growth, which in turn can lead toward times of greater happiness.” I love this talk. It always motivates me to have a better attitude when I am struggling with a particular challenge. As my challenges have transpired, I have learned to rely on and trust in my heavenly Father. 

Elder Bedanr, another member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, gave a fantastic description illustrating how God’s ways are not our ways in his recent talk, "TheWindows of Heaven." He relates: “Sometimes we may ask God for success, and He gives us physical and mental stamina. We might plead for prosperity, and we receive enlarged perspective and increased patience, or we petition for growth and are blessed with the gift of grace. He may bestow upon us conviction and confidence as we strive to achieve worthy goals. And when we plead for relief from physical, mental, and spiritual difficulties, He may increase our resolve and resilience.” In all things, God is aware of our needs and understands what we need most in our times of struggle. Though we may not always understand why we are experiencing overwhelming challenges, it is safe to assume that there is some greater purpose behind them. 

I have been so blessed to have this knowledge as I’ve struggled through endless homework, family deaths, and emotional difficulties. I know that this knowledge and these spiritual materials can also strengthen you during your own difficult times.