When bad things happen to us, such as abuse, bullying, or trauma, we must remember what Christ said: “I know your sorrows, and I have come to deliver you” (Exodus 3:8–9).
Survival stories come in many different forms. Some may think of natural disasters, wilderness survival, or plane crashes, while others may think of genocide, war, child abuse, bullying, or domestic violence. All of these situations, unique in their own ways, reflect a tragedy inflicted on someone through no fault of their own. Those who survive are often left with trauma, fear, self-loathing, resentment, or shame, and they might not know how to overcome their scars. They might feel as though there is no way out.
In Elder Patrick Kearon’s general conference talk “He Is Risen with Healing in His Wings: We Can Be More Than Conquerors,” he outlines the promises our Savior brings to those who have suffered in any form: “Fear not. I know your sorrows, and I have come to deliver you. I will not leave you. My name is upon you, and my angels have charge over you. I will do wonders among you. I am in your midst. You are mine.”
Elder Kearon urges that when suffering causes us to feel afraid, angry, sad, or alone we should first seek professional help, then make a list of the promises the Lord has made to us in the scriptures. Through Christ’s Atonement and his love, we may understand that we are not responsible for what has happened to us and that we are not alone, damaged, despised, or any less loved. We are children of God, and we are worthy of everything Heavenly Father has to offer—no matter what we have done or what has been done to us.
Above all, remember that Christ is always with you. In times of anguish or loneliness, I like to think of my favorite scripture: “And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up” (D&C 84:88).
Read Elder Patrick Kearon’s full general conference talk “He Is Risen with Healing in His Wings: We Can Be More Than Conquerors” to learn more about the Savior’s ability to relieve our suffering and bring us peace.
Source: General Conference
—Taryn Hervey, Latter-day Saint Insights
FEATURE IMAGE BY RI BUTROV
Find more insights
Take a look at Elder Richard G. Scott’s general conference talk “To Heal the Shattering Consequences of Abuse” to learn about healing our hearts in times of abuse or trauma.
Read Sister Sharon Eubank’s general conference talk “Christ: The Light That Shines in Darkness” to discover your divine potential through Christ’s atonement.