2 Corinthians 11–12
Enduring Trials with Faith in Christ
Even the most faithful disciples of Jesus Christ endure hardship in their lives. Paul shared some of the suffering he endured and how he was able to find joy in those experiences through the Savior’s help. This lesson can help you rely on the Lord as you strive to faithfully endure your own challenges.
Life’s trials
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What do you think is the purpose of the thorns on a rose bush?
In life, we have many wonderful experiences that can be compared with a rose. However, we also face trials and challenges that could be compared with the thorns.
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What are some trials and challenges that people may face in life?
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What thoughts and questions might people ask about God as they experience trials? What might they wonder about themselves?
As you study today, look for truths that can help you faithfully endure trials that God, in His love and wisdom, chooses not to remove. Ponder why you need God’s help as you endure them.
Paul’s trials
Read 2 Corinthians 11:24–28, looking for some of the trials Paul endured during his ministry.
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What other examples can you think of from the scriptures or from Church history that show that even the righteous suffer difficulties? How is the Savior’s life proof of this?
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Why do you think Heavenly Father allows faithful disciples of Jesus Christ to endure so much?
Although God blessed Paul with wonderful revelations, including a vision of the celestial kingdom (see 2 Corinthians 12:1–4), Paul still had to endure trials and tests of his faith. Read 2 Corinthians 12:7 to see what Paul compared one of his ongoing trials to.
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How could “a thorn in the flesh” be a good description of some personal trials?
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What comparison might you use to describe a specific trial that you or your loved ones have endured? Why?
Read 2 Corinthians 12:8–10 to see Paul’s experience praying for his “thorn in the flesh” to be removed. As you read, keep in mind that the word grace means “divine help or strength … given through the mercy and love of God” (Guide to the Scriptures, “ Grace,” scriptures.ChurchofJesusChrist.org; see also Ether 12:27).
One truth we can learn from Paul’s experience is that the Lord may not always remove our challenges, but we can be strengthened by His grace as we endure them faithfully.
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How do you see this truth evident in the Savior’s life? (see Luke 22:41–44).
Find and read at least one scripture account that shows how the Lord can bless those who endure trials with faith in Him. (Following are suggestions of accounts you might choose.)
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Doctrine and Covenants 121:1–8; 122:7–9. (Joseph Smith prayed as he was suffering in Liberty Jail.)
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Mosiah 24:8–15. (Alma’s people were captives of the Lamanites and were ruled over by the wicked priest Amulon.)
Watch the video “Mountains to Climb” (5:05), available at ChurchofJesusChrist.org, looking for what we can do to endure trials faithfully.
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What did you learn about enduring trials with faith in Jesus Christ?
Optional: Want to Learn More?
How was the Savior an example of the truths taught in this lesson?
President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency shared the following about Luke 22:41–44:
Here we see the Savior’s absolute faith and trust in the Father. “Nevertheless,” he said, “not my will, but thine be done.” The Father’s answer was to deny the plea of his Only Begotten Son. The Atonement had to be worked out by that lamb without blemish. But though the Son’s request was denied, his prayer was answered. The scripture records: “And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him” (JST, Luke 22:43).
(Dallin H. Oaks, “Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,” Ensign, May 1994, 100)
What does the Savior offer us during our trials?
President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency shared:
The healing power of the Lord Jesus Christ—whether it removes our burdens or strengthens us to endure and live with them like the Apostle Paul—is available for every affliction in mortality.
(Dallin H. Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2006, 8)
How can our struggles help us bless those around us?
Sister Reyna I. Aburto, Second Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency, taught:
Your struggles do not define you, but they can refine you. Because of a “thorn in the flesh,” you may have the ability to feel more compassion toward others.
(Reyna I. Aburto, “Thru Cloud and Sunshine, Lord, Abide with Me!,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2019, 59)
Can those who hold the priesthood heal all who have faith to be healed?
President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency explained:
Although the Savior could heal all whom He would heal, this is not true of those who hold His priesthood authority. Mortal exercises of that authority are limited by the will of Him whose priesthood it is. Consequently, we are told that some whom the elders bless are not healed because they are “appointed unto death” [Doctrine and Covenants 42:48]. Similarly, when the Apostle Paul sought to be healed from the “thorn in the flesh” that buffeted him (2 Corinthians 12:7), the Lord declined to heal him.
(Dallin H. Oaks, “He Heals the Heavy Laden,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2006, 7)