Every Experience Can Become a Redemptive Experience

Title

Every Experience Can Become a Redemptive Experience

Publication Type

Journal Article

Year of Publication

2011

Authors

Rau, Allen D. (Primary)

Pagination

90-103

Volume

12

Issue

1

Terms of use

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Bibliographic Citation

Abstract

The unjust incarceration of the Prophet Joseph Smith in Liberty Jail during the bitter winter of 1838–39 embodies a poignant irony. In the narrow confines of that foul-smelling and vile dungeon, Joseph Smith received extraordinary revelations (see D&C 121–23). Commenting on the circumstances in which these revelations were received, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught, “Every experience can become a redemptive experience if we remain bonded to our Father in Heaven through that difficulty.” In essence, “man’s extremity is God’s opportunity . . . [because] He can turn the unfair and inhumane and debilitating prisons of our lives into temples—or at least into a circumstance that can bring comfort and revelation, divine companionship and peace.”
 
If every experience can become a redemptive experience, then even when we unfairly suffer there is reason to hope. Joseph Smith learned in Liberty Jail that when the faithful suffer injustice, such afflictions “shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good” (D&C 122:7). Significantly, the Book of Mormon confirms this principle and provides compelling evidence of its efficacy. These Book of Mormon teachings will be the focus of this paper.
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Early Church History
Sariah
Atonement
Redemption
Agency
Justice
Opposition
Deliverance
Alma the Elder
Affliction
Jacob (Son of Lehi)
Laman (Son of Lehi)
Lemuel (Son of Lehi)
Lehi (Prophet)
Joseph (son of Lehi)
Priests of King Noah
Abuse
Amulon (Priest of King Noah)
Smith, Joseph, Jr.

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