Trials as a Part of Life

This is not a new topic, and I write about it with the fear of sounding cliche. However, it has become very important to me and I hope to share a few thoughts that have been on my mind.

Over and over again we see that the scriptures promise us we will have trials and tribulations. Never are we promised temptation won't come, trials won't come, or times will be easy.

As a recovering pornography addict, this is a hard truth for me to swallow. I keep hoping for the day when temptations will be no more. In my mind I guess I am picturing that if I study the gospel, follow the 12 steps, and turn my life and will over to my Savior, that temptations will be removed from my life completely. But it doesn't happen.

My parents left on a mission not long ago. I feel blessed to have them serving, and I know there are real blessings which come into the lives of families of Senior Couples who serve faithfully. As they prepared to leave, I spent much time praying that while they were gone I would not be tempted, that my desires would be removed, and I would no longer feel any draw to my addiction.

During their farewell I had an interesting experience. The message that came to my heart was not "You won't be tempted. Your addiction is no more." What I did feel was this...

"Over the next 18 months, you will have the power to overcome any challenge or temptation you face. Those challenges will be real, and some will be difficult, but I will bless you with the ability to face them and overcome them."

In the end, isn't that the blessing I would rather have? In my life I will always experience temptation. It's a part of being mortal. I will always experience trials, pain, and challenges. It is a much greater promise to know I can have the Lords strength in those trials.

I am grateful to a Savior who teaches us, who carries us, and who stands with us through all trials of life.