From Facebook- My Testimony on Trials

Originally posted on Facebook Sept. 2010

It truly boggles my mind to realize that people believe that since there is pain and suffering in the world then that has to equate to the fact that God doesn't exist. I can only make sense of this with the conclusion that people must have a misperception of what God is really all about. They think that IF there was a God- then everything in life would be good. Everything would work out exactly how they want it to and there would be no pain or suffering. So when the inevitable happens- life doesn't go as planned, and bad things happen- then that must mean that God doesn't exist, or that He doesn't care.

Well here's what I know...

I know that God allows us to suffer, because if He didn't, we would never grow. And that would defeat the whole purpose of this life. For it truly is during our hard times that we grow and develop. And hopefully for the better. I also know that God NEVER leaves us alone during our hard times- or our good. He doesn't expect us to make it through this life on our own left to our own devices. That's why He provided a Savior for us. Isn't it so incredible that we have a Savior who knows EXACTLY how we feel? Who understands us perfectly? And who has the ability to take our pain upon Himself, and away from us? 

Precious in His Sight- Greg Olsen

***This is one of my favorite pictures of Christ***

My testimony of Heavenly Father, and the Savior makes any pain, disappointment, etc. I have to endure in life- and in my mere 20 years, I've already endured a lot- worth it. It's helped shape the person I am, and hopefully it continues to shape me into a better person as I continue through life.

I also know that God, without fail, compensates us for our pain and suffering. I think sometimes we get so caught up in things that are wrong in our lives that we forget to look around and take note of all the GOOD things in our lives. We don't have those good things by accident. We need to thank God for all the good things instead of always just complaining about the bad.

This isn't meant to be preachy. Trust me, I've done my fair share of complaining and asking, "Why me?" And I'll probably do some more complaining and asking, "Why me?" before my lifetime is up. But through all of the eventual hard times I'll yet endure, I know deep down with everything I have that despite all of my many imperfections, I have a Heavenly Father and a Savior who love me, and only want the very best for me. And because of that love They provided a way back to Them. And that way is not a path I have to take alone, because if I did- I would never make it. I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true, and I love the Gospel with my whole heart. It makes this life, and all that I have to endure within it, absolutely worth it. I just hope that I will stay faithful, and not let my pain and trials be a waste in my life.