In January of 2020, the world started hearing more about a new threat called COVID-19. The virus was not well understood nor was it localized to one specific area. It quickly spread from nation to nation, shutting down entire countries in some places.
Never in my lifetime have I heard the Prophet make remarks about such an illness until this pandemic. And never have I felt safer. My testimony of living prophets and apostles being guided by our Savior has grown during this time of uncertainty. Before we were placed under quarantine, the leaders of the Church put policies in place which would help us through this particular storm. The blessings poured upon us at this time have come from our loving Father who wants us to know that He is in charge. He is watching and He has prepared a way for us to get through this trying time.
As I have studied Come Follow Me, I have been impressed with how the messages coincide with our world’s current situation. As I read of Alma’s people in bondage to the Lamanites, the Lord promised to ease their burdens so much that they would not feel them upon their backs. The Lord miraculously provided an escape, causing the guards to fall into a deep slumber. He guided their leaders to bring His people to safety, just as President Nelson and the apostles have guided us into spiritual safety through these frustrating days.
When our Prophet called for a worldwide fast, I felt the love and depth of this powerful display of faith. Miracles happened for many people, often enough, the miracle may not have come the way others hoped it would. The Prophet assured us that our Father in Heaven heard our prayers. We now get to trust in the Lord’s way as He does what He sees fit to heal the world of the threat it faces.
What happens when the future looks bleak and the way forward is unknown? We hold on to what we know. We know that the Prophet is instructed by a loving Heavenly Father who has our best interest in mind and an eternal perspective. We know we will be spiritually safe if we obey what that Prophet teaches us. We know that in times of hardship, that the Savior will lift, comfort and help us through any experience as we seek Him. What else matters?
Right now, we can do our part by sharing our hope and faith for others to hold to. I find hope as I ponder what the sealed portion of the Book of Mormon says about this time in history. Can you imagine the chapters regarding the especially difficult times in the latter days that we are living through? President Nelson said, “We have front-row seats to witness live what the prophet Nephi saw only in vision, that “the power of the Lamb of God” would descend “upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.” You, my brothers and sisters, are among those men, women, and children whom Nephi saw. Think of that!” 1
Always remember that Heavenly Father is never surprised about what happens on our earth. He knows the hearts and intentions of all people. He always has a plan in place, and we can place our trust in the Creator of all things to bring about His will and His purposes. Only we experience uncertainty. God is at the helm and knows the way through the storms to safety.
- “Hear Him,” President Russell M. Nelson, General Conference April 2020, Sunday Morning Session