Tender Mercies

I drove to Richmond today in order to work on a story. As I drove south through the early morning, the sun gradually dawning, I was so grateful to have a nice car to drive, and XM radio to listen to--no losing the station! I was happy to be in good health and have a great reason to go down there and learn something new.

Being grateful for the small things is key to happiness, I've found. When I start to lament the problems I have in my life, I realize that a lot of other people have things a lot worse.

The Lord gives us tender mercies all the time, but we have to actually look for them and rejoice in them, especially when times are tough. While there have been times I've shaken my fist and asked the Lord, why? I know He is there, He knows me, and He will make things right in the end, as long as I am faithful.

Last October, Elder Neil L. Anderson said in General Conference:

"These fiery trials are designed to make you stronger, but they have the potential to diminish or even destroy your trust in the Son of God...Immerse yourself in the very things that helped build your core of faith: exercise faith in Christ, pray, ponder the scriptures, repent, keep the commandments, serve others...whatever you do, don't step away from the Church! Distancing yourself from the kingdom of God during a trial of faith is like leaving the safety of a secure storm cellar just as the tornado comes into view."

So true, and exactly what I needed to hear on Sunday.