Today’s blog post is deeply inspired by the October 2020 General Conference talk “Waiting on the Lord” by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland. In these challenging times when we are swamped with a constant barrage of instant gratification, the talk serves as a soulful reminder to reevaluate our relationship with time, hardship, faith, and patience.
In our fast-paced, instant-gratification culture, the act of waiting is often seen as an insufferable ordeal. For many, patience seems like an outdated virtue, a relic of simpler times. Yet Elder Holland dares to ask us, “How long do we wait for relief from hardships that come upon us?” His question serves as a mirror, reflecting our inner angst and beckoning us to consider the deeper, more transformative aspects of waiting.
In his sermon, Elder Holland reaches back into history, drawing on the harrowing experience of Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail. The tale is sobering and universal, highlighting that we are not unique in our struggles. In essence, he assures us that the call to the divine in the face of despair is as old as humanity itself. This perspective serves as a powerful leveller, reminding us that we are part of a broader human struggle, a collective experience that draws us closer to each other—and to the Divine.
In the Bible, Hebrews 11:1 tells us, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This theme recurs throughout Elder Holland’s talk, encouraging us to embrace faith as a transformative force. When faced with trials, waiting with faith—rather than mere tolerance or resignation—enables us to transcend our limitations, grow spiritually, and catch glimpses of the divine plan for our lives.
In an age when comfort is often mistaken for happiness, Elder Holland reminds us that a life of faith is rarely stress-free. Faith calls us to engage deeply with life’s challenges, believing in divine love and timing. It asks us to bear our crosses with dignity and hope, acknowledging that not all prayers are answered in the ways we expect or desire. Elder Holland poignantly declares that the absence of stress isn’t the ultimate goal. Instead, it is the profound ability to endure, with faith, whatever comes our way.
Elder Holland offers solace and a message of incredible hope. Citing Isaiah 40:31, he assures us that those who wait upon the Lord will indeed renew their strength. Whether your hardship lasts a day or spans several years, the message is clear: hold fast to your faith, and you will be uplifted.
As we grapple with our individual and collective trials, let’s make the world a better place. Start today. Offer a listening ear, a helping hand, or a comforting word to someone in need. Volunteer in your community. Whatever you do, let your actions reflect your faith and values. Your waiting period can become a transformative journey not just for you, but for those around you as well.
In closing, let’s make patience and faith our guiding stars as we navigate through life’s complexities. The process of waiting, when coupled with faith, holds the power to transform us, bringing us closer to our truest selves and to the divine purpose of our existence. Link to the original: Click Here
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