Sunday School 18 - Mosiah 7-10

In April of 2009 in a conference talk entitled Be of Good Cheer, the prophet Thomas Monson said, "Your future is as bright as your faith" King Benjamin was a man who had lead his people through tough times of war and loss (Omni 1:23-25). Lost love ones prepared them for what was coming next, a new name.

Trial of loss and pain changes us. It makes us look at time and life differently. Got those that look to the Lord for an answer, eyes are opened to the tender mercy and love our Father has for us to bring our the best in us. These experiences prepare us for the temple, tie us to our family, and seek redemption from our loving Savior.

Its not prevalent now but we will see more and more in our study, generational hatred of the Lamanites gets worse and worse. Our own world has such hatred. For some it's "part of the culture". By King Benjamin's day it has been 500+ years of cultural hatred and animosity. King Zeniff in the book of Mosiah notes the good. It's strange but we could also note the good in our own culture where people are taught to hate one type of people and love another. Jesus taught us to love one another as [he] has loved us (John 13:34). I imagine it is difficult to love those that hat us but we must try.

"God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs." - Spencer Kimball 

When we are changed into the creature we were meant to be we strive to help others look inside and reach out to the Lord for that change also. In the scriptures we see pain and suffering that is changed to hope and faith, because something has sparked in us, a fire that wants the fire of the Spirit.

I like this quote "Your stories refrain shows your possibilities..." - Stephan Taeger 

All too often we may feel that out trials and tribulations are meant to put us down and that we should only experience sorrow, but that is not true. Our hard times create direction and inspiration. People could of ignored King Benjamin call to the temple, they could of wallowed in their pain but this good leader gave his people hope for the future as our prophets today do. He shared visions and scriptures, showed a good accountability. 

Take time to share with your family and friends how the Savior has helped you. Also if you have angst against a person or group because of ideology or affiliation, as the Lord how your own heart can be softened. Ask how you are meant to grow in your own pain so that pain can be turned to a good thing such as compassion.

Brothers and sisters, we are here for a purpose. Our lives have a deep meaning to the Savior. Be the parent, friend, and neighbor this week that you would want to have. Approach your callings and responsibilities with gladness. Give your family the attention they need and know God loves you.





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