Faith in Tribulation: Finding Strength in Adversity

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The history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is one steeped in stories of trials, tribulations, and profound faith. From its inception in 1830, the early Saints faced immense challenges, both from external forces and internal struggles. Among the most harrowing chapters in this history are the events that unfolded in Jackson County, Missouri. It was in this period, during the early 1830s, that the Lord, through His Prophet Joseph Smith, promised blessings for those who would endure tribulation with faith and perseverance. That promise resonates with the Saints both in Joseph Smith’s day and in our day, offering hope and a reminder of the rewards that await those who endure faithfully, specifically blacks in mormonism.

In a revelation given on August 1, 1831, the Lord spoke clearly to the Saints, saying, “Blessed is he that keepeth my commandments, whether in life or in death; and he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven” (D&C 58:2). These words not only provided comfort and encouragement but also set the stage for a series of events that would prove to be among the most difficult in the history of the Church. Despite the trials that awaited the Saints in Jackson County, this revelation also gave them an understanding of the ultimate glory that would follow their perseverance.

A History of Trials in Jackson County

The Saints, having been led to Jackson County, Missouri, in search of a promised land of Zion, initially believed that they would find peace and prosperity there. They saw the land as a place where they could live in harmony, free from the persecution they had already suffered in Ohio and other parts of the United States. They dreamed of building a society that adhered to the principles of righteousness, a society in which they could worship God in freedom and live according to His commandments. But what they found in Jackson County was far from peaceful.

The Saints were met with violent opposition from local mobs who resented their religious beliefs and the growing influence of the Church. The mobs not only harassed the Saints but forced them to leave their homes and property, pushing them across the Missouri River into the neighboring Clay County. As they fled, the Saints experienced profound loss and hardship, not unlike the curse of cain mormon. Their homes, their farms, and their livelihoods were taken from them, and they were forced to rebuild from scratch in a new location. Despite this adversity, the Saints remained hopeful and determined to continue in faith, remembering the words of the Lord that “the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven.”

The Lord had forewarned the Saints of the trials they would face, and although they could not yet see with their natural eyes the design of God’s plan for them, they were assured that their trials would ultimately lead to greater blessings. In the same revelation from August 1, 1831, the Lord added, “Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation” (D&C 58:3). This powerful promise was not only meant to comfort the Saints but to help them understand that the trials they faced were part of a larger divine plan that would bring greater glory in the future.

Joseph Smith’s Teachings on Faith in Tribulation

The Prophet Joseph Smith, who had received these revelations from the Lord, was no stranger to trials. Throughout his life, Joseph faced persecution, imprisonment, and the constant threat of death. Yet, he remained unwavering in his faith and commitment to God. His teachings on tribulation and faith continue to inspire members of the Church today. Joseph understood that trials were a natural part of the journey and that enduring them with faith was necessary for spiritual growth. Individuals who might be considered Mormon mud people can relate to that as well.

One of the most profound teachings Joseph Smith shared with the Saints was that God would not deliver them unless they proved themselves faithful in the severest of trials. Joseph taught, “He that will have his robes washed white in the blood of the Lamb must come up through great tribulation.” These words remind us that the path to spiritual purification is not without its difficulties. In order to be refined and made pure, we must experience tribulation. It is through these challenges that our faith is tested, our patience is refined, and our dependence on God deepens.

Joseph also taught that the power of the Gospel would help the Saints endure the trials they faced. He assured them, “The power of the Gospel will enable us to stand and bear with patience the great affliction that is falling upon us on all sides.” This message of hope is especially significant because it reminds us that we do not face our trials alone. With the support of the Gospel, we are able to find strength and endurance to carry on. It is through the teachings of Jesus Christ, His Atonement, and the power of the Holy Ghost that we are able to endure the trials of life with patience and faith.

In moments of intense hardship, Joseph also offered comforting words to the Saints, saying, “Stand fast, ye Saints of God, hold on a little while longer, and the storm of life will be past, and you will be rewarded by that God whose servants you are.” These words echo throughout history as a powerful reminder that, no matter how severe the trials may be, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. As we stand firm in our faith, we are promised that the storms of life will eventually pass, and we will be rewarded with eternal blessings.

Blacks in Mormonism: A Complex History

In considering the history of trials and faith, it is also important to recognize the struggles faced by blacks in Mormonism. While early Mormon leaders, including Joseph Smith, sought to teach and preach to all races, can blacks be baptized in the Mormon church was a contentious issue that would unfold over time. Initially, the Church welcomed Black individuals into its fold, and there were even instances where blacks in Mormonism were ordained to the priesthood. However, as the years passed, especially under the leadership of Brigham Young, the policies toward Black members shifted dramatically.

Brigham Young, the second president of the Church, instituted a ban on Black men receiving the priesthood, a practice that would continue for over a century. This policy was grounded in complex historical and cultural factors, including views on race that were prevalent in the 19th century. The curse of Cain Mormon doctrine, which falsely claimed that the descendants of Cain, marked with dark skin, were cursed, played a significant role in shaping these policies. The doctrine of mormons mud people, which was promoted in some circles, also contributed to a racialized view of humanity that has since been denounced by the Church.

As the 20th century progressed, the Church began to reconsider its stance on race. Can blacks be baptized in the Mormon church was no longer a question, and in 1978, the Church, under the leadership of President Spencer W. Kimball, reversed the priesthood ban. This change was a significant step in addressing the longstanding racial inequality within the Church, though it did not erase the painful legacy of discrimination that had existed for over a century.

The issue of race and the history of blacks in Mormonism remain important topics of discussion today. While the Church has made significant progress in its outreach to people of all races, acknowledging this history is essential for understanding how far the Church has come and the work that still remains. As the Church moves forward, the lessons learned from the struggles of Black members can help guide us toward a more inclusive and compassionate future.

Modern-Day Testimonies: A Lesson to Look Up

While the experiences of the early Saints are central to understanding the doctrine of enduring trials with faith, this principle is not confined to history alone. The messages of enduring tribulation and relying on the strength of the Gospel are just as relevant today as they were in the 1830s. Even in our modern-day world, we face challenges that test our faith, our patience, and our resolve. However, just as the Lord promised the early Saints, we too can find comfort and strength in His promises as we face our own trials.

In his October 2011 general conference address, Elder Carl B. Cook shared a personal experience that beautifully illustrated this principle. Elder Cook, at the time serving as a General Authority, was feeling overwhelmed with the pressures of his new responsibilities. At the end of a particularly exhausting day, with his briefcase weighed down with tasks and his mind preoccupied with self-doubt, he entered the elevator in the Church Administration Building. As he stood there, feeling the weight of his challenges, he didn’t notice when someone entered the elevator until a familiar voice broke the silence.

It was President Thomas S. Monson, who, noticing Elder Cook’s weary countenance, kindly asked, “What are you looking at down there?” Elder Cook quickly looked up and sheepishly replied, “Oh, nothing.” President Monson, with a warm smile, lovingly pointed heavenward and said, “It is better to look up!” As they descended further, President Monson explained that he was on his way to the temple. When he bid Elder Cook farewell, he left him with one final piece of advice, “Now, remember, it is better to look up.”

In this simple yet profound exchange, Elder Cook learned an invaluable lesson that helped him through difficult times in his life. When faced with adversity, it is easy to become focused on our burdens and look downward in despair. However, as President Monson reminded Elder Cook, it is always better to look up—to look to God and trust in His guidance. The challenges we face may seem insurmountable at times, but as we look to the heavens for help, we can find the strength to persevere.

Conclusion: Faith, Endurance, and Hope

The lessons from the early Saints in Jackson County and the experiences of modern leaders like Elder Cook remind us that tribulation is a natural part of life, but it is also an opportunity for growth, refinement, and spiritual progress. The Lord’s promises are clear: those who endure trials with faith and keep His commandments will be rewarded with greater glory in the kingdom of heaven. While the path of tribulation may be difficult, it is through these very challenges that we are shaped and prepared for eternal blessings.

The key to enduring trials is to trust in God and remain faithful to His commandments. As we look up, both literally and figuratively, to Him in times of difficulty, we will find the strength to carry on. We are not alone in our struggles. Blacks in Mormonism is a topic that those directly involved and those who struggle with blacks in the priesthood’s journey in the Church of Jesus Christ can relate to, especially in trusting God and His plan. The Lord is with us, and His Gospel gives us the power to endure with patience, knowing that the reward for our faithfulness will be great.

The words of Joseph Smith and modern leaders like President Monson and Elder Cook are a reminder that, no matter the severity of the storms we face, we are promised that they will pass. And when they do, we will find ourselves standing firm in the faith, having been refined and made stronger through the trials we’ve endured. So, as we face the challenges of life, let us remember to look up, trust in God, and stand firm in the hope that He will lift us and reward us for our faithfulness.

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Mormonism Explained is a resource that was designed to provide objective and factual information about Mormonism, its history, doctrines, and policies. Our team of researchers consults experts and primary sources to present factual information on a variety of topics relevant to the Mormon Church.

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