The Test

My thought on President Packer's talk "The Test"

I love the history lesson/reviews that every once in awhile our beloved General Authorities give us. Knowing where we have been helps us keep our eye on where we want to go. How often do the ancient prophets in our scriptures remind the people he is speaking to about their past? How often do the prophets bring up Moses and the Israelites 40 year walk in the desert? How often do the prophets remind the people of the parting of the Red Sea? OFTEN! and WHY? because we need to remember the mercies of the Lord, the consequences of our actions and that the Lord NEVER FORGETS HIS PEOPLE!

There are also lessons to be learned from the individuals that go through the trials. I have learned a lot studying Joseph Smith. I've learned a lot from studying those of my family who stood shoulder to shoulder with him and Brigham Young. I've learned a lot from Alma, Nephi, John Taylor, John Daniel Holladay, Christian Olsen and many, many more.

President Packer said, "Rather than being consumed with revenge, they were anchored to revelation." Ever one of the people I have named followed this council (plus those in the talk). It isn't hard for me to follow that same example WHEN I remember the lessons from my history.

President Packer said this "the same Lucifer who was cast out of our Father's presence is still at work. He, with the angels who follow him, will trouble the world of the Lord and destroy it if he can."

and only the righteous can stop him. We can stop him from destroying the means of our future lives by being righteous and bring up a righteous generation. I know it is hard. I know I want to give up some times (OK--a LOT OF TIMES) but it is knowing my history that makes me want to not give up and stick with it and push forward with a steadfast faith.