Sister Derfler gave a wonderful lesson in Relief Society today (Chap. 32, Responding to Persecution with Faith and Courage).
The Prophet Joseph Smith endured much persecution, especially while he was in Liberty Jail. During this time that he was in jail, the Saints were being forced to leave their homes in Missouri. We are forever grateful for these Saints who gave up so much and were tested beyond measure.
As Latter-Day Saints, are we persecuted? Are we persecuted like the Saints were in 1838-39?
Sis Derfler posed the question, "How is persecution similar today as it was in Joseph Smith's time?" We hear those hateful words, we see the mocking. The world still proclaimes good is evil and evil is good. But Satan is more cunning and subtle today. We are not physically thrown in jail or removed from our homes, but we are chased by things that look attractive. So instead of pushing us, he is trying to lead us gently down the path of unrighteousness.
3 Lessons From Liberty Jail
1. Everyone faces trying times
2. Even the worthy will suffer
3. Remain calm, patient, charitable, and forgiving
This was such a good lesson. If you haven't read the chapter, please do it now! It will give you courage and strength. The last lines in the chapter read, Therefore, rejoice in our afflictions, by which you are perfected and through which the captain of our salvation was perfected also. Let your hearts and the hearts of all the Saints be comforted with you, and let them rejoice exceedingly, for great is our reward in heaven...
16 years ago
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