Putting your trust in God

We have had some struggles in life that at the time I thought were anything but blessings. But what I have learned is that when we put our trust in God in all we do, despite the apparent hardship that we face, we can move forward with the assurity that God is mindful of our needs, and He will turn all challenges for our good.

• Living at grandma's with no place to go
• Repeatedly losing my job
• Facing health problems
• Death of loved ones

I won't belabor the point. We all face horrific challenges. How are we to get through them?

28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God...

Romans 8:28

3 And now, ... I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day.

Alma 36:3

These are helpful and teach an incredibly valuable lesson we must all learn. Then, we can benefit greatly from this knowledge, especially when times get tough.

For example, we have all watched a sports contest when our team is losing. It's painful. Each fumble or mixup aggravates us and rocks our confidence, as we keep watching the clock and wondering "Is there enough time we could possibly catch up?" You know the feeling.

Your mother and I were at Buffalo Wild Wings watching a game like this between BYU and Iona. The Cougs were down by 25 points, and the Iona team wasn't supposed to be that good. BYU just kept turning over the ball, missing shots, and struggling. The crowd was livid. Frustration, anger, and despair are just a few of the words that come to mind. As you all remember, BYU came back to win the game by mounting the biggest comeback in NCAA tournament history.

But what if you already knew the outcome when you watched that game? BYU would turnover the ball, and you would brush it off. They'd miss a shot and you would chuckle to yourself. Knowing the outcome makes all the difference. That knowledge helps you get past the challenges at the moment and gives you hope and sure confidence despite the obstacles faced during the game.

Though my example is trite, this principle also applies to life. We know the outcome! The Savior is already victorious. As we align ourselves with Him, our promise is made sure. So obstacles we face in life are temporary setbacks that make us more compassionate, capable, and stronger. We will be victorious despite adversity.

Yet, life is hard. How do we know what to do?

13 But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.

Moroni 7:13

We listen to our parents and leaders. We glean support from family and friends, and we move forward with faith in Him and have confidence that it will all be okay in the end. If it's not okay, it's not the end.

A simple principle supported by scripture. Alma 7:11-13

Your can put your trust in Him and have faith you will be supported in all your trials and afflictions.

I know this to be true through personal experience.