I’ve had this conversation multiple times over the past few months:
Someone that I’m speaking to tells me about a dramatic event that has happened in their life.
I offer my condolences and my empathy.
But then, in virtually every conversation, that person tells me something along the lines of:
“I actually don’t really feel that sad about it. It seems like this should feel worse, but I just feel an overwhelming sense of peace.”
And my response back to them?
“YES! I know EXACTLY what you mean!”
Because I’ve also had some not-so-great things happen recently. And even though logic would tell me that I should be in deep despair, I have felt almost nothing but peace.
AND THIS is what I’ve learned is the true blessing of the gospel.
The true blessing of the gospel isn’t that we will be healed when we get sick.
It isn’t that we will have amazing jobs.
It isn’t that loved ones won’t die.
It isn’t that our bank accounts will stay full.
The true blessing is described beautifully in Doctrine and Covenants Section 19 verse 23:
(which should sound very familiar if you were in Young Women’s a few years ago)
“Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me.”
THAT is the perfect blessing that we are offered when we draw close to the Savior.
When we study about His life in the scriptures, when we listen to His words and teaching, when we keep the Spirit with us and walk with humility and meekness…
We are blessed beyond measure.
Not with perfect lives.
But with perfect PEACE that comes with being a follower of Christ.
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
