Be Patient in Afflictions

Elaine Cannon

“When we are pushed, stung, defeated, embarrassed, hurt, rejected, tormented, forgotten—when we are in agony of spirit crying out ‘why me?’ we are in a position to learn something” (Adversity, 47).

Dallin H. Oaks

"Surely these great adversities are not without some eternal purpose or effect. They can turn our hearts to God." (Dallin H. Oaks, “Adversity,” Ensign, Jul 1998, 7)


John Bytheway

"Something wonderful happens when we really know, without a doubt, that God loves us—our questions completely change. Instead of asking, “Why did this happen to me?” or “Why doesn’t God care about me?” we say, “Well, I know God loves me; I know that. So what can I learn from this experience?”

"Sometimes we think our trials come because we did something wrong. That’s not always true. Adversity is simply part of earth life. From it we can grow and progress if we choose to. Yes, some trials come because of our own disobedience, but many trials are simply part of life." (John Bytheway, “Five Scriptures That Will Help You Get through Almost Anything,” New Era, Sep 2008, 26–31)

James E. Faust

"Let us not presume that because the way is at times difficult and challenging, our Heavenly Father is not mindful of us. ... May each of us follow the Lord's comforting counsel: 'Be patient in afflictions, for thou shalt have many; but endure them, for, lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days' ( D&C 24:8 )" ( "The Blessings of Adversity," Ensign, Feb. 1998, 7 ).