Becoming and Overcoming

Loved the BYU devotional on Monday by Carol Wilkinson titled "Becoming and Overcoming" - transcript here, originally given on March 17, 2009


I loved this quote from Thomas Steed, recorded in his journal after he immigrated to the US and arrived in Nauvoo, Illinois:

The Prophet Joseph Smith was at the pier. At first glance I could tell it was him, by his noble expression. He came on board to shake hands and welcome us by many encouraging words, and express his thankfulness that we had arrived in safety. As he could not stay with us, he sent Apostle Geo. A. Smith to preach on board. “What did you come here for?” asked he. “To be instructed in the ways of the Lord,” answered someone. [Apostle Smith said,]“I tell you, you have come to the thrashing floor, and after you have been thrashed and pounded you will have to go through the fanning mill, where the chaff will be blown away and the wheat remain.” (The troubles of Nauvoo were just coming upon them).[Life of Thomas Steed, 8–10]

This earth life is the thrashing floor. Ugh, that doesn't sound fun. But that is what we are hear for, to help us learn humility, trust, and charity. She gives 4 steps that we can apply when we face adversity in our lives:

Step 1. Your Plan Is Thwarted; You Trust God and Ask Different Questions
Step 2. Faith Doesn’t Bring Desired Results; You Ask for Strength
Step 3. You Are Not Consumed with the Trial; You Focus on the Good Things in Your Life
Step 4. You Consecrate Your Life to God; You Draw Closer to Him