Book of Mormon: Day 33: I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction

Today’s reading: 1 Nephi 19:131 Nephi 20

10 For, behold, I have refined thee, I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.

Everyone  goes through times in life where the Lord can can help refine us, where we can either turn to Him or away from Him. These are often referred to as our trials. While in the midst of affliction and heartache, it is so easy to wonder why these trials are put in our life. Through the experiences I have had I firmly believe that these trials are not to punish us, or to weaken our faith. We are given trials to help us become the best we can, to help purify our hearts, and to help us become stronger and better.

When I was 15 my life  changed forever. I was attending gym class at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999 when the school shootings occurred there. I remember feeling so lost and  scared and broken. My innocence was taken from me in an instant. Day after day I wondered why this happened and how it could ever be a good thing in my life. Sometimes the pain, and the emotions I felt seemed unbearable.

This was my furnace of affliction.

It took many years for me to realize the tender mercies and blessings that were given to me at that time. As time has passed, I can see how that trial helped me gain compassion, perspective, faith,  understanding and truly helped shaped me into who I am today.

 From the Book of Mormon study manual it says:  Intense heat refines metal and removes impurities.   Dallin H. Oaks observed  that affliction can likewise refine and purify each of us. In his talk The Challenge to Become, he goes on to say:

“Most of us experience some measure of what the scriptures call ‘the furnace of affliction’. Some are submerged in service to a disadvantaged family member. Others suffer the death of  a loved one or the loss or postponement of a righteous goal like marriage or childbearing. Still others struggle with personal impairments or with feelings of rejection, inadequacy, or  depression. Through the justice and mercy of a loving Father in Heaven, the refinement and sanctification possible through such experiences can help us achieve what God desires us to  become”

I have learned that when I put all my faith in the Lord, and when I am keeping the commandments, reading my scriptures, and saying sincere prayers, I am able to see how my trials are helping to shape me into the stronger, more faithful person that God wants me to become.

How have the trials in your life helped refine you?

FurnaceOfAfflication

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