Exrcises For The Soul - Adversity

"Adversity is part of Heavenly Father's plan for us here upon the earth. We are here to be proven - to do whatever God commands us to do. (See Abraham 3:25) As we struggle to meet trials, we grow and develop qualities that we can attain in no other way. When we seek his help, our Heavenly Father will strengthen us and make us equal to the trials that come to us." (Family Home Evening Resource manuel) Scripture: "Know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good. Doctrinw and Covenants 122:7 Discuss: As we cope with our trials and adversity we can develop God-given strengths. (See Gospel Principles manuel 1979 p. 11 and 2nd Nephi 2:11) Story: Relate Joseph Smith's experience in Liberty Jail as found in D&C 121 and 122. Ask: What are some of the blessings that came to the prophet and have come to all of us as a result of this experience? (He studied and increased in knowledge and understanding while there. He continued to receive revelations and, through his writings, direct the church. He grew in compassion.) Read Joseph's statement: "I think I could never have felt as I do now if I had not sufferedd the wrongs I have suffered. It has awakened my soul to the love of God" (History of the Church 3:290). Read D&C 121:7 Ask What can we learn from the fact that the prophet Joseph Smith received the blessing of peace in the midst of affliction in Liberty Jail? (We can pray for and receive peace of mind in any adversity that may come to us.) Tell: about a trial from your own life or one of your ancestors that has strengthened and blessed you. If desired, family members can tell of their own trials. (For example, Sickness can increase our compassion for the sick and our appreciation of good health.) Encourage family members to recognize trials as challenges and remind them to seek the Lord's help in overcoming them. Compare life to a kite. The following parallels may help in your discussion: Kite: Each one of us is like a kite. Wind: Trials, like the wind, push against us each day. The resistance it provides, keeps us up and going. String: We have the gospel which, like the string of a kite, directs, controls, and anchors our lives Activity: Have family members help make a purchased or homemade kite. Fly it. (This can be a separate activity at another time.) Person of the week: Kennedy Oman for making a card and bringing other gifts to her sister, Taylor, when she was sick and in the hospital.