The Hastening of the Work of the Lord

When the Prophet Joseph Smith was in Kirtland, Ohio, the Lord told him, “Behold, I will hasten my work in its time” (Doctrine & Covenants 88:73). Since that time we have seen the hand of the Lord moving forth His work. We don’t always understand the way He goes about doing things but we can trust that He is in charge. As President Gordon B. Hinckley stated,

“God is at the helm. Never doubt it. When we are confronted with opposition, He will open the way when there appears to be no way. Our individual efforts may be humble and appear somewhat insignificant. But the accumulated good works of all, laboring together with a common purpose, will bring to pass great and wondrous accomplishments” (Gordon B. Hinkley, “God is at the Helm”, Ensign, May 1994).

Examples of the work of the Lord can be found in the scriptures. In Moses, the Lord Himself explained His work, “For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39). Other examples of His work include missionary work, temple work, and the work of serving His children here on earth.

In Isaiah we read that, “the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea” (Isaiah 11:9). We have seen the fulfillment of that prophecy in many ways. I will only list three relatively recent examples.

In 1961 construction on the Berlin Wall was started. “The Berlin Wall [was] a barrier that divided Berlin…Constructed by the German Democratic Republic…the wall completely cut off (by land) West Berlin from surrounding East Germany and from East Berlin” (wikipedia: Berlin Wall). Garold and Norma Davis wrote about the struggles of the church members in the area, and the ray of hope of the Lord preparing a way for the opening of the doors to the gospel again:

“During this time of darkness and difficulty, an event took place that later proved to be a turning point for the Church in the German Democratic Republic. On 9–10 November 1968, mission president Stanley D. Rees of the North German Mission and his wife visited the GDR, bringing with them Elder Thomas S. Monson of the Quorum of the Twelve. Sister Krause recalls: “He [Elder Monson] was so young we thought he was a missionary, because the Mission Presidents often brought missionaries with them when they came.” At a meeting in Gorlitz, Elder Monson promised the Saints of eastern Germany they would have all the blessings other members of the Church enjoyed. Although outward events of the “cold war” in the German Democratic Republic did not seem to be altered immediately, subtle changes began taking place within the Church in that country—slowly at first, but accelerating over the next twenty years.

"On 27 April 1975, on a hilltop overlooking the Elbe River between Dresden and Meissen, President Monson dedicated the German Democratic Republic for the preaching of the gospel. On 24 August 1977, President Spencer W. Kimball spoke to the saints in the Dresden chapel, the chapel that had been converted after the war from an officers’ casino. In August 1982, the Freiberg stake was created. On 23 April 1983, ground was broken in Freiberg for a temple. In June 1984, the Leipzig stake was created, and in 1985, the Freiberg Temple was dedicated. Permission was given to build new chapels for the saints: in Freiberg, alongside the temple; in Leipzig; in Zwickau; in Dresden; and in Karl-Marx-Stadt.

“Finally, in October 1988, it was announced that after fifty years, full-time missionaries would once again be permitted to come from outside the country to establish a mission. A brighter day was majestically dawning over the German Democratic Republic” (Garold & Norma Davis, “Behind the Wall: The Church in EasternGermany (Part 1: Saints in Isolation, 1945–1989)).

It was in November of 1989 that “the East German government announced…that all GDR citizens could visit West Germany and West Berlin. Crowds of East Germans crossed and climbed onto the wall, joined by West Germans on the other side in a celebratory atmosphere” (wikipedia: Berlin Wall). Despite the physical barriers that were in place, the Lord was able to work with the faithful saints to further His work behind the wall.

Another example of the Lord hastening His work occurred in June of 1978. It was at this time that the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints proclaimed that, “all worthy male members of the Church [could] be ordained to the priesthood without regard for race or color” (Doctrine & Covenants; OfficialDeclaration #2). Since that time the priesthood, together with all the blessings available through it, has continued to spread throughout the earth.

The People’s Republic of China is another example of the Lord hastening His work. Even as recent as 2013, Elder Dallin H. Oaks, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke about the country of China and the work of the Lord there. He said, "The church has no proselyting missionaries in the People's Republic of China…Nor does it have any plans to send missionaries, or to engage in any proselyting activities in China.” (Deseret News, “New LDS site answers questions about Mormons andChina”, 15 March 2013).

On the Church’s website about Mormons and China it states that, “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not one of the five recognized religions in China” (www.mormonsandchina.org). However, there is an LDS temple there—in Hong Kong. Elder Monte J. Brough and Elder John K. Carmack explain,

“In 1898 Hong Kong became a British colony with the signing of a 99-year lease, expiring June 30, 1997. In December 1984, British and Chinese authorities signed a declaration confirming that the British government would hand over Hong Kong to the People’s Republic of China on July 1, 1997” (Elder Monte J. Brough and ElderJohn K. Carmack, How the Hong Kong Temple Came to Be, Ensign, December 2006).

Through a series of miraculous events, a temple was built in Hong Kong, and dedicated in May 1996, so when Hong Kong was returned to the People’s Republic of China in 1997 the temple went with it.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has members living in China, but they are encouraged to obey the laws of the land (see Articles of Faith 1:12). “Over the years, the Church has built a strong relationship of trust with the People’s Republic of China by always respecting the important laws and traditions of that country" (www.mormonsandchina.org). The Church is observing Chinese laws and directions on religious activities by not allowing access to this website, containing religious information, to those in China.

The work of the Lord will continue to go forth, and it will be interesting to see how things will work out with the gospel spreading to all parts of the earth. I know that the Lord is at the helm, and in charge of His work. As Joseph Smith stated,

“[T]he Standard of Truth has been erected; no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing; persecutions may rage, mobs may combine, armies may assemble, calumny may defame, but the truth of God will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent, till it has penetrated every continent, visited every clime, swept every country, and sounded in every ear, till the purposes of God shall be accomplished and the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done” (History of the Church, 4:540).

Personal Experience with Reading the Book of Mormon

I have read the Book of Mormon multiple times in my life. A few years ago I realized that sometimes I didn’t really get much out of my scripture reading. I remember a talk by President Ezra Taft Benson in which he talked about reasons for reading the Book of Mormon. He said,

“It helps us draw nearer to God. Is there not something deep in our hearts that longs to draw nearer to God, to be more like Him in our daily walk, to feel His presence with us constantly? If so, then the Book of Mormon will help us do so more than any other book.

It is not just that the Book of Mormon teaches us truth, though it indeed does that. It is not just that the Book of Mormon bears testimony of Christ, though it indeed does that, too. But there is something more. There is a power in the book which will begin to flow into your lives the moment you begin a serious study of the book. You will find greater power to resist temptation. You will find the power to avoid deception. You will find the power to stay on the strait and narrow path.” (Ezra Taft Benson, "The Book of Mormon-Keystone of Our Religion", Ensign, Nov 1986).

Marion G. Romney also spoke of the power that comes from a regular study of the Book of Mormon when he said:

“I feel certain that if, in our homes, parents will read from the Book of Mormon prayerfully and regularly, both by themselves and with their children, the spirit of that great book will come to permeate our homes and all who dwell therein. The spirit of reverence will increase; mutual respect and consideration for each other will grow. The spirit of contention will depart. Parents will counsel their children in greater love and wisdom. Children will be more responsive and submissive to the counsel of their parents. Righteousness will increase. Faith, hope, and charity—the pure love of Christ—will abound in our homes and lives, bringing in their wake peace, joy, and happiness.” (Marion G. Romney, "The Book of Mormon", Ensign, May 1980).

I decided that I was going to test these promises, and make a daily, intentional, study of the book of Mormon. When I first started, I was a little worried because I generally read right before bed. I didn't think I could get much out of it, and I was also worried that staying up later to read would not be as beneficial as sleep. I knelt down and explained to the Lord that I wanted to read the scriptures, but I would really need His help to get something out of what I was reading, and also that I would have help to be functional in the morning - especially with my later night readings.

As a young mother, I was often very tired, and my emotions were high. About a month after starting this experiment I had a really rough day. When I talked to my husband about my troubles he said that he was surprised about me having a rough day, because for the past month there had been such a wonderful feeling in our home. I feel that has been a tremendous blessing from reading the Book of Mormon. It has given me the courage to keep reading every day because I know that the Lord will continue to support me. One thing I have learned is when I remember to ask the Lord, he is there to help.

Photo Thought: Faith in the Face of Trial

"[I]f now or on some future day, you look around and see that other perhaps less-devoted acquaintances are succeeding in their jobs when you just lost yours; if major illness puts you on your back just at the moment critical tasks of service seem to come calling; if a call to a prominent position goes to someone else…if well-meaning efforts still somehow lead to disaster with a fellow ward member, a neighbor, or an investigator; if news from home brings word of financial setback or mortal tragedy you can do nothing about; or if, day after day, you simply feel like a bland and beaten background player in a gospel drama that really seems made for the happiness of others, just know this: many such things were the lot of Joseph Smith himself at the very moment he was being led to the stage of the single most transcendent thing to happen on this earth since the events of Golgotha and the Garden Tomb nearly 2,000 years earlier.

"'But,' you may say, 'my life and earthly destiny will never be like that of the Prophet Joseph.'

"That probably is true. But it is also true that your lives do matter to God, and your eternal potential and that of every soul you will meet is no less grand and significant than that of the Prophet Joseph himself. Thus, just like our beloved Joseph, you must never give up, give in, or give out when life in general…gets utterly painful, confusing, or dull. Rather, as Paul teaches, you must see that 'all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose'.

“Just as He did with young Joseph Smith, God is shaping and directing you every single day to ends more glorious than you can know!"

(Matthew Holland, "The Path to Palmyra", Ensign, June 2015)

Photo Thought: Faith to Try

How to Keep On Keeping On

There has been a lot going on in my life lately that has left me with a lot of unknowns; many unanswered questions, unknown paths to take, uncertainty about different, and potentially difficult, decisions, and a feeling that change is on the horizon. I’ve been praying, reading my scriptures, trying to do all the right things to receive guidance and direction, but not feeling the answers as readily as I used to. Did I do something to separate myself from heaven, or is this a test to see what I will do with the knowledge and understanding the Lord has given me? How do I continue moving forward when I don’t have a clear direction on the path I need to take?

In this most recent General Conference Elder L. Whiteny Clayton told a story about a little girl who had to face almost insurmountable challenges. I love how he described the process she followed:

"After the crash, Sailor had a choice. She could have chosen to stay by the airplane in the dark, alone and afraid. But there was a long night ahead, and it was just going to get colder. She chose another way. Sailor climbed up a hill, and there she saw a light on the horizon.

"Gradually, as she made her way through the night toward the light, it grew brighter. Still, there must have been times when she could not see it. Perhaps it went out of view when she was in a ravine or behind trees or bushes, but she pressed on. Whenever she could see the light, Sailor had evidence that she was on the right path. She did not yet know precisely what that light was, but she kept walking toward it based on what she knew, trusting and hoping that she would see it again if she kept moving in the right direction” (L. Whitney Clayton, “Choose to Believe”, Ensign, May 2015).

She chose to act, despite her circumstances. 

In my own life I have found that I feel most frustrated, or spiritually stagnated, when I feel helpless or feel that I don’t have any control over a situation. Escaping that mindset can sometimes be difficult to overcome. Each of us has been blessed with the God given gift of agency. We always have a choice. 

While seeking for guidance I found a quote which gave me some direction. It said, “Doctrines and principles are eternal, unchanging gospel truths that provide direction for our lives” (Book of Mormon: Study Guide for Home-Study Seminary Students, p2).

When I read this it gave me hope. I felt that in my struggles, or spiritual stagnation, or feeling no clear direction or guidance I could seek to find—and more fully live—the doctrines and principles of the gospel. By so doing I would be moving in the right direction until I had a solid foothold again. 

In Sunday School today our teacher spoke about having courage; courage to keep moving forward despite obstacles and challenges; courage to live the gospel despite opposition; courage to make good decisions—the consequences and effects of which will follow us throughout our lives. President Monson taught,

"Scarcely an hour of the day goes by but what we are called upon to make choices of one sort or another. Some are trivial, some more far-reaching. Some will make no difference in the eternal scheme of things, and others will make all the difference…

"[W]e all know where we want to go, and it does matter which way we go, for by choosing our path, we choose our destination.

"Decisions are constantly before us. To make them wisely, courage is needed—the courage to say no, the courage to say yes. Decisions do determine destiny.

"I plead with you to make a determination right here, right now, not to deviate from the path which will lead to our goal: eternal life with our Father in Heaven” (Thomas S. Monson, “The Three Rs of Choice”, Ensign, Nov 2010).

Many times in life we will need to make decisions, without specific guidance from the Lord. Why does that happen and how do we proceed? Elder Richard G. Scott said,

"When we explain a problem and a proposed solution [to the Lord in prayer], sometimes He answers yes, sometimes no. Often He withholds an answer, not for lack of concern, but because He loves us—perfectly. He wants us to apply truths He has given us. For us to grow, we need to trust our ability to make correct decisions” (Richard G. Scott, “Learning to Recognize Answers to Prayer”, Ensign, Nov 1989, emphasis added).

Moving forward into the darkness—or the unknown, waiting to catch a glimpse of the light requires faith. President Gordon B. Hinckley taught, "We take one step at a time. In doing so we reach toward the unknown, but faith lights the way. If we will cultivate that faith, we shall never walk in darkness” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “We Walk by Faith”, Ensign, May 2002).

I love the counsel that the Lord gave Joshua, as he is preparing to lead the children of Israel out of the wilderness and into the promised land. "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest” (Joshua 1:9).

Even during difficult times in life we must always remember that the Lord is ever aware of us. He is watching over us, and those things that we are experiencing "shall be for [our] good” (Doctrine & Covenants 122:7). This life is a test, and at times we may need to walk in darkness. When we feel that way, may we trust that the Lord is ever watchful of us, and that His ever-present hand is in our lives, even if we are unable to see it at times.

Parable of the Sower (Part 2: Spiritual State of the Soil)

“Spiritual” State of Soil

In the parable of the sower, that the Savior taught (see Matthew 13:3-9), we can look at the soil as all being equal in the beginning and evolving over time.

Alma teaches us that, “in the first place [we] were on the same standing with [our] brethren” (Alma 13:5). In the very beginning state of our pre-mortal existence, we all started out on equal footing. Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all of us were born into mortality innocent before God, as Joseph Smith taught:

“Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning; and God having redeemed man from the fall, men became again, in their infant state, innocent before God” (Doctrine & Covenants 93:38).

In the beginning all the soil—all of us—were on equal standing. The seed—the word of God—is available to all but there are some who, through their own decisions, have allowed the adversary to snatch the word away (see Matthew 13:19). To “snatch” means to “to take (something) quickly or eagerly” (link to definition). The adversary is ever on the lookout for opportunities to deceive the children of men. Peter admonishes us to, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). He may be subtle and crafty, or blatant and bold, but his intentions are the same – to deceive mankind.

The soil that has the seed snatched away are those who “[hear] the word of the kingdom, and [understand] it not” (Matthew 13:19). Like Laman and Lemuel, in the Book of Mormon, it could represent those who neglected to inquire of the Lord, or failed to keep the commandments, when they didn’t understand (see 1 Nephi 15:8-10). They failed to do what was required and never gave the seed a chance to sprout.

If we have sincere questions about the gospel we should continue to be obedient as we seek them out. In the Ensign magazine we are taught that, “A sincere questioner continues to be obedient while searching for answers….The doubter’s posture is generally to withhold obedience or limit it, pending resolution of the doubts” (link to article). As for obedience, we can always remember the Lord’s promise: “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.” (Doctrine & Covenants 82:10).

The stony soil represents those who receive the word with joy, but don’t make the effort to focus on their roots. They have not taken the work and effort to dig out the rocks and prepare the soil for planting so when temptation, trial, and tribulation come they have no root to hold them firm and steadfast (and there are a lot of stones in the way). The Apostle Paul’s counsel can apply to us today when he said, “continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel” (Colossians 1:23). We need to be obedient to the principles of the gospel so our feet can be firmly planted, deeply in the soil.

When I think of the stony soil I think of the experience I have had with fruit trees. After transplanting a fruit tree, it is very important to remove all of the buds for the first couple of years, so that the tree can focus more on establishing the roots than on producing fruit. If we attempt to produce “fruit” in our lives without establishing our roots, the tree will be less fruitful and the fruit will be smaller. This may be the type of soil that describes those who do things for show, or the praise of the world (see Matthew 6:2, 5, 16).

We need to take time to really establish our root system so that we can weather the storms of life. We need to prepare our soil by establishing the needed habits of daily scripture study, daily prayer, weekly Family Home Evening, and temple worship in order to sustain us during our trials. President Henry B. Eyring stated it so simply, “If the foundation of faith is not embedded in our hearts, the power to endure will crumble” (link to talk).

The soil that is covered with thorns describes one who hears the word, but seems to be distracted by “the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in” (Mark 4:19).

When thinking of “the cares of the world” we might include the philosophies of men. Elder Dallin H. Oaks speaks of, “the ‘captivity’ into which this ‘church [of the devil]’ seeks to bring the saints will not be so much physical confinement as the captivity of false ideas” (link to article).

The deceitfulness of riches is very prevalent. In this world if you have enough money you can buy pretty much anything you want - except for the important things, like family, love, faith, and an abiding testimony in the Savior. The other week in church one of the speakers stated it so plainly when he said, “some people are so poor all they have is money”. We must remember the words of the Savior, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). President Ezra Taft Benson taught,

“When we put God first, all other things fall into their proper place or drop out of our lives. Our love of the Lord will govern the claims for our affection, the demands on our time, the interests we pursue, and the order of our priorities” (link to talk).

One thing that has been taught over and over again is about the dangers of pornography (which I think applies to “the lusts” referred to in the parable). Elder Richard G. Scott so bluntly states,

“Satan has become a master at using the addictive power of pornography to limit individual capacity to be led by the Spirit. The onslaught of pornography in all of its vicious, corroding, destructive forms has caused great grief, suffering, heartache, and destroyed marriages. It is one of the most damning influences on earth. Whether it be through the printed page, movies, television, obscene lyrics, vulgarities on the telephone, or flickering personal computer screen, pornography is overpoweringly addictive and severely damaging. This potent tool of Lucifer degrades the mind and the heart and the soul of any who use it. All who are caught in its seductive, tantalizing web and remain so will become addicted to its immoral, destructive influence. For many, that addiction cannot be overcome without help. The tragic pattern is so familiar. It begins with curiosity that is fueled by its stimulation and is justified by the false premise that when done privately, it does no harm to anyone else. For those lulled by this lie, the experimentation goes deeper, with more powerful stimulations, until the trap closes and a terribly immoral, addictive habit exercises its vicious control” (link to talk).

Those in thorny soil may have lost focus of their true priorities. They have made something else more important than following the Lord. They may rely on their riches, or their own understanding, rather than trusting in the Lord. Those in thorny soil may feel like they will be able to get around to the spiritually important things later, or they may feel hopelessly entangled. To become free they need to access the power of the Atonement; which can rescue them from the choking influence of the world. Elder Scott continued,

“If you are ensnarled in pornography [or any other vice, for that matter], make a total commitment to overcome it now. Find a quiet place; pray urgently for help and support. Be patient and obedient. Don’t give up” (link to talk).

Elder Ullises Soares also offered this comforting counsel: “Don’t be discouraged. If you are striving and working to repent, you are in the process of repenting” (link to article).

The good soil represents those who hear the word, understand it and endure (see Matthew 13:23, JST). They have cultivated an attitude of seeking for the things of God (see Doctrine & Covenants 25:10).

Ask any farmer—or anyone who has planted a garden—good soil takes time, effort, and consistency to prepare it for planting. But once you plant the seeds the work is far from done. It requires the daily efforts of watering, weeding, and just walking through it to see if there are any trouble spots.

Like Captain Moroni who fortified his weakest cities (see Alma 48:7-10) we need to recognize our weaknesses and fortify ourselves against times of weakness, opposition or temptation.

I wonder if, like the parable of the Ten Virgins (see Matthew 25:1-13), the soil can be likened to members of the Church. How are we doing in weeding and watering our soil to keep it in a good state?

All plants need water, soil, and sunlight in order to survive. I like to think that in this parable the soil represents the experiences that we will have in mortality—the outcome of the soil is determined by our use of agency to make choices. The sunlight can be likened to the Light of Christ when He said, “Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God…I am the light which shineth in darkness” (Doctrine & Covenants 6:21). This light is available to all. The water that is so essential to our survival can be likened to the living water that the Savior spoke of when He said, “whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:14). All of these are necessary for our spiritual growth.

We must not neglect the importance of the daily care and weeding needed to maintain good soil. Weeding can be likened to repentance. If we do it daily, we can pick the weeds when they are small. If we “procrastinate the day of [our] repentance” (Alma 13:27) we may have much larger weeds that are much harder to pull out. All weeds can be pulled out but some will take more effort than others. We must remember that is it through the Atonement of Jesus Christ that we can repent. As we use our agency to follow the Savior we can be guided in our lives. Elder Ulisses Soares said,

“We were born with the seed of divinity in our spirits because we are God’s children. This seed needs to grow. It grows as we exercise our agency in righteousness, as we make correct decisions, and as we use the Light of Christ and the Holy Ghost to guide us in the decisions we make during the course of our lives. This process takes time, and it is not possible to shape our lives from one day to another” (link to article).

When thinking of the parable of the sower we may ask ourselves why the sower allowed the soil to become thorny or rocky. Why didn’t he take care of it? The answer is simple. The Lord allows us to make our own decisions because of our agency. Our agency is worth so much that the Lord would not trade it for anything–not even His knowledge of the tragedies, pain, sorrow, fear, loneliness, and every other trial that His children would face. Not even for the sake of one-third of His spirit children.

Why?

He has been this way before. He knows what it takes to become exalted, because He once walked in mortal shoes. He knows that getting to where He is will be worth every heartache, every trial, or every challenge that we will ever face. Joseph Smith taught that,

“[God] was once a man like us; yea…God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Christ Himself did” (Joseph Smith, from the King Follett Address in History of the Church 6:305-6).

And Elder Bruce R. McConkie testified that,

“The Father is a glorified, perfected, resurrected, exalted man who worked out his salvation by obedience to the same laws he has given to us so that we may do the same” (Taken from "A New Witness For the Articles of Faith" by Bruce R. McConkie, pg 64).

The Lord isn’t sending us on a mission to do something because He doesn’t want to do it. He is asking us to follow in His footsteps, and do what He has done. As we follow Him we can become as He is.

The sower does care for his field. He has given instructions to each of us in how we may have a successful crop. As we are obedient to His instructions He is bound to keep His side of the bargain (see Doctrine & Covenants 82:10).

Those entangled in the thorns, or burned by the stones have not heeded the instructions of the sower. There may be times where we may wish to bask in the warm sun (until it scorches us) or enjoy the gentle caressing of the thorns (until they choke us), but if we disregard the instruction we have received we are only deceiving ourselves. The choice to change must come from within. We must take the first step, for the Lord will not stand in the way of our agency. I love the words in the following Hymn:

“Know this, that ev’ry soul is free

To choose his life and what he’ll be;

For this eternal truth is giv’n:

That God will force no man to heav’n.

“He’ll call, persuade, direct aright,

And bless with wisdom, love, and light,

In nameless ways be good and kind,

But never force the human mind 

(link to Hymn)

Once we come to ourselves (see Luke 15:17) and have “viewed [ourselves] in [our] own carnal state” (Mosiah 4:2) we will need to “[put] off the natural man” (Mosiah 3:19), bid Babylon farewell (link to Hymn) and turn to the Lord. He will help us to get rid of the thorns and stones so that we may have good ground. The process will not be easy, and may be painful and long, but if we trust in Him, we will be eternally blessed. Elder Richard G. Scott stated,

“Challenges help us become more like our Father in Heaven, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ makes it possible to endure those challenges. I testify that as we actively come unto Him, we can endure every temptation, every heartache, every challenge we face” (link to talk).

Sometimes it may feel incredibly difficult to commend ourselves fully unto the Lord (see Ether 6:4), but if we trust in Him we will be led to our own land of promise—a land more beautiful and fruitful than we can ever imagine.

Parable of the Sower (Part 1: Physical State of Soil)

Jesus taught a parable that has got me thinking this past week.

“Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

“And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:

“Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

“And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

“And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

“But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

“Who hath ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 13:3-9).

Jesus taught His disciples that the seed is “the word of the kingdom” (Matthew 13:19). I take this to mean the word of the kingdom of God, or the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I have had two trains of thought regarding this parable – both which seem to make sense to me. The first one is looking at the parable from the “physical” state of the soil – where it was already in its varied states when the sower went out to sow. The second one is from a more “spiritual” angle, where the soil started out good, and over time it changed.

“Physical” State of Soil

In thinking about this parable, if it represents those who have the opportunity to hear the word of God why didn’t the sower make sure that all of the seeds landed in good soil (why waste good seed on poor soil)? Why does mortality require that we face thorns and thistles, scorching sun, or stony places? Why didn’t the sower make it so every seed had a chance? Doesn’t he care about where his seeds fall?

If we look at the soil as earth life, and how each of us was placed into different circumstances, we may wonder how life can be “fair”, when some may seem to have it so easy (having things given to them so readily). We may get caught up in all the differences that we find surrounding each of us. However, Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge reminds us:

“Regarding the few things that matter most in life, no one is disadvantaged or privileged. Everyone is on equal footing. This is surprising because there is otherwise so much inequality in life.

“In the end it does not matter how well liked you are or how much money you acquire or how beautiful you may be. The greatest gifts are equally available to everyone” (link to talk).

We are here on earth for a purpose. Nephi taught that, “it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things” (2 Nephi 2:11). We knew that the plan of our Father in Heaven would include trials, challenges, and opposition, to help us grow and develop into the person He knows we can become. We knew we would struggle, but we were willing to come down to earth because we knew our Heavenly Father and wanted more than anything to become as He is. We knew life would be hard, but were willing to accept the challenge despite the difficulties. Elder Marlin K. Jensen Jensen taught,

“There is no formula for guaranteeing happiness every day of our lives; in fact, scripture suggests that God did not intend for every day to be entirely happy. There is eternal design and purpose to be seen in suffering, sadness, and adversity” (link to article).

We are each given the joy, trials, hope, sorrow, and everything else we will need in this life to return to our Father in Heaven (see 2 Nephi 2:27). We are each on a specifically, uniquely individual path. Our circumstances—good or bad—are for our good (see Doctrine & Covenants 122:7).

Sometimes we may think that life would be much easier if everything could work out perfectly for everyone—but that can never be. I love the way Dallan R. Moody phrased it, when he said:

“A plan in which supposedly everything would go right so nobody would be lost was 
already proposed and rejected. The plan of salvation, on the other hand, allows for opposition in all things: sadness and sweetness, wrongdoing and repentance, trial and testimony” (link to talk).

How could we ever learn the godly attribute of patience if we never had to wait? How could we learn to love without loss; find virtue in a world filled with vice; or know joy without sorrow? We can’t. Sometimes we need to pass through the trials of life in order to more fully understand them. Brother Moody also stated,

“From time to time the Lord puts certain truths into our hearts that affect our future destiny. We may not fully understand His 
reason for teaching us these principles at these particular times. Instead, it is often once we have passed through the ensuing experiences that 
clarity comes. We can then look back through life’s lenses and more fully see that God does prepare a way for us to accomplish what He 
commands” (link to talk).

The Lord knew, when He presented the Plan to us, that not everyone would have a chance to have the gospel during their mortal life. He did, however, provide a way that all of His children could enjoy the blessings of the gospel. Through the atonement of His Son the way was opened for all to receive these blessings either in this life or in the life to come. Through the restoration of the gospel, through the Prophet Joseph Smith, we now have temples that dot the earth making saving ordinances available for both the living and the dead.

Through the Atonement we are able to not only receive the blessings and ordinances of the gospel, but also the healing power that comes through the use of its divine power. Elder David A. Bednar taught,

“because of His infinite and eternal sacrifice, [the Savior] has perfect empathy and can extend to us His arm of mercy. He can reach out, touch, succor, heal, and strengthen us to be more than we could ever be and help us to do that which we could never do relying only upon our own power….The unique burdens in each of our lives help us to rely upon the merits, mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah” (link to talk).

We were given the very trials we face because the Lord knew they would bring us closer to Him. We don’t see everything, because we have limited vision, but He does.

I had an interesting experience that helped teach me more about the Lord’s perspective. I took an art class where I learned about “perspective drawing”. This method is a more realistic way of drawing where things that are closer appear larger and things that are farther away appear smaller. As you look at the picture, you will see that far off on the distant horizon is a place where everything seems to come together. This is known as the “vanishing point” (photo taken from here).

Imagine if you will, that you are part of a finished painting. From your vantage point you can see what is in front of you, but not behind, above, or below you (because people in paintings can’t move). You are limited in your vision. The artist, however, can see the complete picture.

After taking that class I looked at things in a new way – I saw everything from my new “perspective” point of view. I saw how I could change the vanishing point of what I saw by changing where I looked. Everything, no matter where I stood, eventually led to some distant point on the horizon.

I started seeing the world in a new light, and gaining a greater understanding for how the Lord sees it. Taking it a little deeper, for example, when I look at a bird I see an animal with feathers, eyes, a beak, and sometimes can watch it fly or hear it sing. The Lord, with an intricate understanding of how the bird was created, has a much deeper understanding of the bird. He not only knows the details of every feather, and shape of the eyes, but every bone, organ, internal and external feature, the mechanics of how they create their song, and everything else about them.

In like manner, when we look at our own life we may see ourselves, our strengths, weaknesses, circumstances, trials, hopes, dreams, joys, sorrows, and everything else that surrounds us. When the Lord looks at us, however, He sees the whole picture. He sees where we are in the canvas, and also the point on the horizon where everything in our lives will come together and we will see ourselves as He sees us. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught,

“We see ourselves in terms of yesterday and today. Our Heavenly Father sees us in terms of forever. Although we might settle for less, Heavenly Father won’t, for He sees us as the glorious beings we are capable of becoming” (link to talk).

In the end the Lord won’t judge us by our circumstances or situation in life. What He will look at is not where we are or what we may have (or feel we lack), but what we are doing with the life He has given us. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf reminds us,

“The Lord doesn’t care at all if we spend our days working in marble halls or stable stalls. He knows where we are, no matter how humble our circumstances. He will use—in His own way and for His holy purposes—those who incline their hearts to Him.

“God knows that some of the greatest souls who have ever lived are those who will never appear in the chronicles of history. They are the blessed, humble souls who emulate the Savior’s example and spend the days of their lives doing good” (link to talk).

If we feel that life has planted us in undesirable soil, remember that there is a way to be transplanted to the good soil. It comes only in and through the Atonement of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We may have plenty of thorns to untangle or stones to move, but if we turn to the Lord we can gain comfort in His promise,

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30.)

About this scripture President Howard W. Hunter stated,

“This marvelous offer of assistance extended by the Son of God himself was not restricted to the Galileans of his day. This call to shoulder his easy yoke and accept his light burden is not limited to bygone generations. It was and is a universal appeal to all people, to all cities and nations, to every man, woman, and child everywhere.

“In our own great times of need we must not leave unrecognized this unfailing answer to the cares and worries of our world. Here is the promise of personal peace and protection. Here is the power to remit sin in all periods of time. We, too, must believe that Jesus Christ possesses the power to ease our burdens and lighten our loads. We, too, must come unto him and there receive rest from our labors” (link to talk).

Let us work to allow the Atonement of Christ to help us move to good ground. Then we can bring forth fruit to help further the work of the Lord's kingdom in these, the last days.

<to be continued...>