The Lord's Promise

I saw this quote today and I thought I would share:

"None of us will escape tragedy and suffering. Each of us will probably react differently. However, if we can recall the Lord's promise, "for I the Lord am with you," we will be able to face our problems with dignity and courage. We will find the strength to be of good cheer instead of becoming resentful, critical, or defeated. We will be able to meet life's unpleasant happenings with clear vision, strength, and power."
--Marvin J. Ashton, "Be of Good Cheer", Ensign, May 1986, 66

As I read this quote, I thought of people I know who are battling cancer, who are financially worse off than I am, who have just lost loved ones.

I thought of my own circumstances and how I react to them. Do I keep the Lord's promise in mind? Or do I succumb to sadness, despair, or anger?

I have to admit that I have a quick reaction to events, whether pleasant or not. I tend to act and then think. And there have been plenty of times when I should have first thought and then acted.

As I consider those times and I try to remember, I realize that, the times I did keep the Lord's promise in mind, I was able to keep things in perspective. Was it easier for me? Was I spared the hurt? No, I can't say that I suffered less or none at all, but I can say that I was able to "face (my) problems with dignity and courage...clear vision, strength, and power."

I hope we will always remember that He is with us and if we let Him, He will help us through.