It seems to me that whenever I make a goal/plan, I am suddenly faced with some sort of adversity that might keep me from succeeding at that goal/plan. Why?
In the last two weeks, I've experienced some trials that have really stretched me. Amongst the trials though, I've experienced some very tender mercies. However, I'm not sure that I would have recognized the tender mercies had I not first read this scripture in Romans followed by a few quotes from Elder Uchtdorf and President Monson.
Romans 5:3-5
4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:
5 And ahope maketh not ashamed; because the blove of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
This scripture say's to me, through trials we can gain patience, knowledge and hope.
While at a Stake Auxillary Training meeting on Thursday evening, I heard another friend say this very same thing. Although this scripture is one that I posted earlier this week on a discusion board, somehow when she said it, it struck me even more. Truly, it is when we go through trials that we really do stretch, grow, gain patience, knowledge and hope.
President Monson said, "Life is full of difficulties. Some are minor and others are major. There seems to be an unending supply of challenges for one and all. Our problem is that we often expect instantaneous solutions to such challenges, forgetting that frequently the heavenly virtue of patience is required."
My youngest son sometimes tests my patience. This year he has struggled quite a bit in his 6th grade class and so I have been in to visit with his teacher a number of times already. (I believe his struggle has more to do with his lack of desire to work). Because of his struggle, I have had to spend quite a few hours at home helping him prepare for his class each day. This has really tested my patience and even caused me to have a poor attitude toward him. I know that this is NOT the way Heavenly Father would want me to handle this situation. I know that He would have me handle things very differently than I have. This is partly why I choose to work specifically with this son.
Through this trial, I really am learning to have patience with him. I have found myself speaking differently to him. I have found myself yelling less and trying to communicate more positivly. Over the last week, his teacher pulled me aside twice to let me know he is making improvements. Twice now I have walked in on him saying his personal prayers. I know that these are the tender mercies the Lord knew I needed to see this week to let me know how important it is for me to "fix" this issue with my young son.
"Patience - the ability to put our desires on hold for a time-is a precious and rare virtue. We want what we want, and we want it now. Therefore, the very idea of patience may seem unpleasant and, at times, bitter. Nevertheless, without patience, we cannot please God; we cannot become perfect. Indeed, patience is a purifying process that refines understanding, deepens happiness, focuses action, and offers hope for peace." Dieter F. Uchtdorf
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