Joy Is Key to Our Spiritual Survival

“When the focus of our lives is on God’s plan of salvation … and Jesus Christ and His gospel, we can feel joy regardless of what is happening—or not happening—in our lives. …

“… His joy is constant, assuring us that our ‘afflictions shall be but a small moment’ [D&C 121:7] and be consecrated to our gain. …

“… As in all things, Jesus Christ is our ultimate exemplar, ‘who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross’ [Hebrews 12:2]. Think of that! In order for Him to endure the most excruciating experience ever endured on earth, our Savior focused on joy! …

“If we look to the world and follow its formulas for happiness, we will never know joy. … Joy is a gift for the faithful.”

President Russell M. Nelson, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “Joy and Spiritual Survival,” Ensign, Nov. 2016, 82, 83, 84.