He Trieth Their Patience – Mosiah 23:21-22

After describing for us how happy the people of Alma were, Mormon pauses in his narrative to identify two principles which we will learn from the subsequent events:

1. God will test our patience and faith. Things may go well for a while, but we can expect that trials will come, because we were sent here to be tested.
2. If we trust God, we will be blessed in the end. Therefore, if we choose to be patient through our trials, that persistent obedience will be rewarded.

Patience is not indifference. Actually, it means caring very much but being willing, nevertheless, to submit to the Lord and to what the scriptures call the “process of time….”
Patience is…clearly not fatalistic, shoulder-shrugging resignation. It is the acceptance of a divine rhythm to life; it is obedience prolonged” (“Patience,” BYU Speeches, November 27, 1979).

Today, I will ponder the the principles of patience Mormon taught in the passage above. I will remember that one of the reasons I experience trials in this life is to test and strengthen my patience. I will recommit to remain faithful through my trials, knowing that God will exalt those who demonstrate their faithfulness to Him over time.