Members Voices
Why Are We, As Saints of This Dispensation, Afflicted and Why Must We Endure It?
Since returning from the Southern hemisphere on a full-time proselytizing mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I have made it a tradition to spend every year’s Christmas vacation in my village, because, during this season, there are a lot of cultural activities going on in the village. I enjoyed every bit of it, particularly the tradition of going door-to-door on New Year’s Eve, exchanging well wishes and receiving gifts from the villagers. (They too are cheer givers).
However, last year’s vacation took a different turn. I experienced a series of afflictions, leading me to ponder why, as Saints of this dispensation, we face such challenges and why we must endure them. A week before Christmas, we lost an uncle who had played a significant role in shaping who I am today. His memorial service was scheduled for December 24, but unfortunately, another uncle had an accident at the local oil mill. He suffered severe injuries when a drum of boiling palm oil fell on him. He was rushed to the hospital but sadly passed away a few days later.
In addition to these tragic events, I also experienced health issues during my time in the village. I had stomach complications such as bloating, indigestion, and lower abdominal pain. These symptoms became so severe that I had to cut short my stay and return to the city for a medical examination. I was diagnosed with a peptic ulcer and typhoid and prescribed medication and dietary restrictions.
Seeking answers to my question about affliction, I came across a text by Tad R. Callister, a former General President of the Sunday School. In his text, “What Is the Purpose of Suffering?” Brother Callister discusses various causes of affliction and suffering. He mentions that affliction can be caused by Satan, as seen in the story of Job. He also acknowledges that mortals can bring suffering upon themselves and others through sinful actions. Furthermore, he discusses afflictions that seem to have no specific cause, such as natural disasters, which are a consequence of our fallen condition. Brother Callister also notes that God can bring affliction upon the wicked because of their transgressions and that He may allow the righteous to suffer for the sake of justice.
But why are we afflicted and why must we endure it?
The Book of Mormon provides insights into this question. In Alma 36, Alma the Younger speaks to his son Helaman and explains how he was afflicted physically and spiritually because of his iniquities. However, Alma recognizes the purpose behind his afflictions, stating in verse 24 that he labored to bring souls unto repentance and to experience the exceeding joy of being born of God and filled with the Holy Ghost. Afflictions can be a necessary part of mortal life. They can lead to a mighty change of heart, foster patience and humility, and deepen our dependence on the Lord.
The Lord reassured Joseph Smith in Doctrine and Covenants 122:7 that all afflictions will ultimately work for his good.
The Lord promise Joseph that if he endures faithfully, his afflictions will be but a small moment, and he will be exalted and receive blessings. From these scriptures, we learn that afflictions can serve a higher purpose in the Lord’s plan. They provide opportunities for personal growth, development of faith, and a deepening reliance on God. Through enduring afflictions with trust in the Lord and in His plan, we can find purpose, growth, and become more Christlike.
As Saints of this dispensation, we may face afflictions for various reasons. These afflictions may arise from our fallen condition, our own choices, the need for repentance and spiritual growth, or as part of God’s plan for justice and judgment. By enduring these afflictions with faith, trust, and reliance on the Lord, we can find purpose, grow closer to our Heavenly Father and His Son, and ultimately become more like Jesus Christ. Although afflictions may be difficult and painful, they can ultimately serve a higher purpose in our lives.