"Correct knowledge of and faith in the Lord empower us to hush our fears because Jesus Christ is the only source of enduring peace. He declared, 'Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me' (D&C 19:23).
"The Master also explained, 'He who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come' (D&C 59:23).
"Trust and confidence in Christ and a ready reliance on His merits, mercy, and grace lead to hope, through His Atonement, in the Resurrection and eternal life (see Moroni 7:41). Such faith and hope invite into our lives the sweet peace of conscience for which we all yearn. The power of the Atonement makes repentance possible and quells the despair caused by sin; it also strengthens us to see, do, and become good in ways that we could never recognize or accomplish with our limited mortal capacity. Truly, one of the great blessings of devoted discipleship is 'the peace of God, which passeth all understanding' (Philippians 4:7).
"The peace Christ gives allows us to view mortality through the precious perspective of eternity and supplies a spiritual settledness (see Colossians 1:23) that helps us maintain a consistent focus on our heavenly destination. Thus, we can be blessed to hush our fears because His doctrine provides purpose and direction in all aspects of our lives. His ordinances and covenants fortify and comfort in times both good and bad. And His priesthood authority gives assurance that the things that matter most can endure both in time and in eternity."
- David A. Bednar, "Therefore They Hushed Their Fears," Ensign, May 2015, pp. 46-49
Click here to read the full talk
Elder Bednar's talk is based on an incident recorded in Mosiah 23:27–28 during which a group of Nephites were greatly frightened by an enemy army threatening them. But with reassurance and encouragement from their prophet-leader Alma, they "hushed their fears" and were able to confront the situation. It's a beautiful, clear message about the power of faith in the midst of opposition. We all seek for that "enduring peace" that is possible only when "correct knowledge" joins with "faith in the Lord."
Through the strength that comes through Christ, we find "spiritual settledness" because "His doctrine provides purpose and direction in all aspects of our lives." How critical is the Savior's invitation to us: "Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me" (D&C 19:23). I love the powerful, active verbs: learn, listen walk. Once we do our part, then we find peace in Him.
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