Having Faith to Stay
When trials get steep and hope runs thin, what keeps you hanging on to faith?
When trials get steep and hope runs thin, what keeps you hanging on to faith?
Have you ever noticed that testimony starts with "test" and question begins with "quest"? John explores why spiritual understanding often requires trials, struggles, and searching for answers.
This week we are studying Doctrine and Covenants sections 58-59. We’ll talk about how blessings come based on obedience, but usually after there is some tribulation and trial. We’ll review how the idea that we can skip the difficulty in life through good choices is not accurate; most all of our growth comes from our challenges. We’ll discuss the value of moral agency, and how not only do we have the power to overcome our trials, but we have the responsibility to do this as well. We’ll also talk about the role of gratitude in improving our mental health.There are free worksheets available for the invitations made in the weekly podcasts. To get these worksheets, please sign up for my email newsletter. Not only will you get access to the free worksheets, but access to many more free strategies to help manage your mental health.
This week we are studying Doctrine and Covenants sections 51-57. We’ll review how many times the Spirit will teach us things that are specific to us if we are willing to hear and accept the counsel.
This week we are studying Doctrine and Covenants sections 41 through 44. We’ll talk about how the Lord commanded his disciples to follow His law, expecting them to be disciplines. We’ll discuss how discipline is also required when trying to achieve consistent change, and how inconsistent efforts are less effective. We’ll also talk about the idea of “but if not” from the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and how this concept can help us remain faithful even when our trials persist. There are free worksheets available for the invitations made in the weekly podcasts. To get these worksheets, please sign up for my email newsletter. Not only will you get access to the free worksheets, but access to many more free strategies to help manage your mental health. Please sign up at the following link: NEWSLETTERFor more information regarding Dr. Morgan, please visit his website here: WEBSITEElder Bednar's Ensign article: ACCEPTING THE LORD'S WILL AND TIMINGDr. Morgan's LDS Living article: ARTICLEDownload copy of episode transcript: TRANSCRIPT
This week we are studying Doctrine and Covenants sections 37 through 40. We’ll talk about a theme in the readings regarding hope during times of difficulty. The Lord has promised that all trials will come to an end, but has also commanded us to have hope in the meantime. We’ll review how hope is critical in overcoming mental health challenges. We’ll also discuss a personal story from President Jeffery R. Holland that teaches the power of persistence, hope, and trust when things seem impossible. There are free worksheets available for the invitations made in the weekly podcasts. To get these worksheets, please sign up for my email newsletter. Not only will you get access to the free worksheets, but access to many more free strategies to help manage your mental health. Please sign up at the following link: NEWSLETTERFor more information regarding Dr. Morgan, please visit his website here: WEBSITEPresident Holland's October 1999 conference talk: AN HIGH PRIEST OF GOOD THINGS TO COMEInspirational video from Pres. Holland's talk: VIDEODownload copy of episode transcript: TRANSCRIPT
This week we are studying Doctrine and Covenants sections 29. First, we’ll talk about the role of agency in change and mental health improvement. We’ll discuss how we need to take accountability for our choices and do difficult things. We’ll also talk about how as we align our will with God, we will achieve greater strength to endure all kinds of challenges. Finally, we’ll discuss how trials, including mental health challenges, are part of a greater process to help us exercise our agency and eventually become more like our Father in Heaven and our Savior Jesus Christ.
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is laugh. Elder Wirthlin’s unforgettable General Conference talk reminds us that learning to smile through life’s challenges can bring strength and peace. Hank Smith explores how the idea of "come what may and love it" can help you through your next hard day.
No one ever climbs downhill—meaning, if life feels tough, you’re moving in the right direction. Chad Hymes reminds us that growth doesn’t just happen—we have to pursue it. When you face hardship, loss, stress, or deep struggles, remember: God’s people have always faced trials, and those trials have shaped them. Today, choose to grow through what you go through. You’re climbing, and you’re not alone.
This week we are studying Doctrine and Covenants sections 29. First, we’ll talk about the role of agency in change and mental health improvement. We’ll discuss how we need to take accountability for our choices and do difficult things. We’ll also talk about how as we align our will with God, we will achieve greater strength to endure all kinds of challenges. Finally, we’ll discuss how trials, including mental health challenges, are part of a greater process to help us exercise our agency and eventually become more like our Father in Heaven and our Savior Jesus Christ.