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15 December, 2024

Finding Hope and Charity in Life’s Challenges

Finding Hope and Charity in Life’s Challenges

Moroni had every reason to feel hopeless. Alone in a world gone wrong, the last prophet of the Nephites witnessed the destruction of his people and their total abandonment of righteousness. Yet, as he wandered, uncertain if anyone would ever read his words, Moroni made a deliberate choice: he included not only his own testimony in the sacred record but also the letters and teachings of his father, Mormon.

Why? Because Moroni knew that no matter how dark life may seem, faith, hope, and charity can light the way. His father’s wisdom, penned during a time of despair, wasn’t just for their era—it was meant for us, to help us navigate the perils of our own time.

A Beacon in the Darkness

Have you ever been in a completely dark room? Not the dim glow of bedtime, but the kind of darkness where you can’t see your hand in front of your face. It’s disorienting. You bump into furniture, stub your toe, and fumble for the light switch. Then, with the flick of a switch, light floods the room, and everything makes sense again.

Moroni and Mormon lived in a world consumed by spiritual darkness. The Nephites had rejected God, embraced wickedness, and lost their love for one another. Their delight in evil left no room for light. Yet even in these dire circumstances, Mormon wrote:

"That which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually" (Moroni 7:13).

This simple but profound truth reminds us that good things come from God. His light, which we know as the Light of Christ, helps us discern truth and inspires us to make better choices. It’s like a compass pointing us toward goodness, even when life feels confusing or overwhelming.

Next time you’re faced with a tough decision, pause and ask yourself: “Does this bring me closer to Christ?” That simple question can illuminate the path forward.

Charity: Love in Action

Imagine baking cookies for a neighbor who just had surgery. You carefully measure the ingredients, mix the dough, and set the timer. But when you deliver them, you realize with horror you used salt instead of sugar. Despite your good intentions, your gift falls flat.

Without love, even our best efforts can miss the mark. That’s why Mormon called charity “the pure love of Christ” and emphasized that it “endureth forever” (Moroni 7:47). Charity isn’t just about what we do—it’s about why we do it. It transforms ordinary acts into divine connections.

President Dallin H. Oaks captured this idea beautifully when he taught:

"The reason charity never fails and the reason charity is greater than even the most significant acts of goodness he cited is that charity, ‘the pure love of Christ’ (Moro. 7:47), is not an act but a condition or state of being.”

Charity is more than kindness; it’s a Christlike way of living. Developing it requires more than occasional acts of service—it’s a journey to align our hearts with His.

Think of someone in your life who might need an extra dose of Christlike love. How can you show them charity this week?

Anger Is Overrated

We all know that one person who seems to erupt at the smallest inconvenience. (Maybe it’s you when you’re hangry—no judgment!) While anger might feel powerful in the moment, it often leaves destruction in its wake.

Mormon observed firsthand how unchecked anger and hatred led to the Nephites’ downfall. He warned Moroni about their cruelty and lack of self-control, painting a sobering picture of the consequences of rage.

The scriptures teach that controlling anger is a sign of true strength:

"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city” (Proverbs 16:32).

President Gordon B. Hinckley added this wise counsel:

"You may think it is the macho thing to flare up in anger … It is not the macho thing. It is an indication of weakness. Anger is not an expression of strength. It is an indication of one’s inability to control his thoughts, words, [and] emotions.”

Anger may be easy, but mastering it requires self-discipline. So, the next time someone cuts you off in traffic or takes the last cookie, take a deep breath and remember Christ’s example of patience.

Hope: The Anchor of the Soul

Life is full of storms—unexpected trials, heartaches, and disappointments. Some days feel like a constant downpour, where nothing goes right. In these moments, hope becomes our lifeline.

Mormon’s final words to Moroni offer a powerful reminder:

"May Christ lift thee up, and may his sufferings and death … and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever” (Moroni 9:25).

This hope isn’t mere wishful thinking; it’s an anchor that steadies us in life’s storms. President Russell M. Nelson explained:

"The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.”

When we focus on Christ—His love, His Atonement, and His promises—our burdens feel lighter, and our perspective shifts.

Think of a challenge you’re currently facing. How can Christ’s example lift you up and give you strength to move forward?

Lessons to Live By

Mormon and Moroni’s teachings offer a timeless guide for navigating life’s challenges:

  1. Follow the Light of Christ: Ask yourself, “Does this bring me closer to Him?”
  2. Develop Charity: Strive to see others as Christ does and act with love.
  3. Control Anger: Practice patience and self-discipline, even in tough moments.
  4. Hold on to Hope: Let Christ’s promises steady you during life’s storms.

These lessons are more than ancient wisdom—they are tools to help us find peace, joy, and purpose today. So, the next time life feels overwhelming, remember Moroni’s example: focus on faith, hope, and charity, and trust in the Savior’s power to lift and guide you.

And if you decide to bake cookies for your neighbor, maybe double-check the sugar first.

Sources

  1. “Patterns of Light: Discerning Light” (Video)
  2. President Dallin H. Oaks, “The Challenge to Become,” General Conference, October 2000
  3. “Charity: An Example of the Believers” (Video)
  4. President Gordon B. Hinckley, “Slow to Anger,” General Conference, October 2007
  5. President Gordon B. Hinckley, Our Solemn Responsibilities,” General Conference, October 1991
  6. President Russell M. Nelson, “Joy and Spiritual Survival,” General Conference, October 2016