God's promised rewards are both greater (more exceeding) and longer-lasting (eternal) than our current sufferings. While it's hard to maintain perspective during difficult experiences, we can remember the faith of Ammon and his brothers, who found extraordinary joy after enduring significant suffering.
“The Laborer Is Worthy of His Hire”
God loves hard work. Jesus taught that the laborer is worthy of his hire. Missionaries like Alma and the sons of Mosiah received eternal rewards for their service. God promised two rewards to Thomas B. Marsh for his service: forgiveness of sins and joy with those whom he served.
Preface to Four Revelations, April-May 1829
Four revelations received by Joseph Smith on behalf of different people have nearly identical openings. These openings are derived from combinations of biblical passages, all of which appear in some form in the Book of Mormon. Here is how I would paraphrase the message of this recurring introduction: Big things are about to happen, so pay close attention to what I'm about to say: People are ready to hear the gospel and if you work hard, you will find success in sharing it. I will answer your prayers, so ask me for help.
A Job Description for Servants of God
Doctrine and Covenants 4 reads like a job description. It states the need, the expectations, the compensation, and two lists of qualifications. We don't need all of those qualifications to get started. With God's help, we can develop them as we serve.
Exquisite
Alma described his pain and his joy using the same word: exquisite, which means "in the highest degree." Lehi taught that we cannot feel joy if we feel no misery. Maybe our sorrows expand our hearts, making room for us to feel more joy.
The Fruits of our Labors
Joy comes from meaningful accomplishments. We can feel joy even as we recognize that we couldn't have done it without God. We can feel joy in the accomplishments of others and in our relationships. We can also feel joy in future, hoped-for accomplishments
Uninhibited Joy
Ammon was overwhelmed by joy when he and his brothers were reunited with Alma. We need to govern our emotions but not stifle them. Some emotions are meant to be felt fully, without reservations or bashfulness. God is pleased when we feel pure joy.
A Call from Arms
The Lamanites who were converted buried their weapons. This act of consecration is so remarkable that it appears many times in the Book of Mormon, including a final invitation from Mormon to us. President Nelson has also invited us to bury our weapons.
“Every Creature”, “Any Human Soul”
The sons of Mosiah wanted to preach to the Lamanites because they loved all of God's children and wanted to help everyone achieve eternal joy. God loves all of His children, and His disciples transcend labels like nationality as they serve other people.
Mercy
1. God is merciful. 2. He extends "arms of mercy" toward us. 3. The Savior's bowels are filled with mercy because of what He suffered. 4. He earned the right to offer us mercy. We claim that mercy by repenting. 5. Mercy is central to God's plan for us.