As contention and anger abound, it can be easy for the future to seem bleak. But we must remember something: the prophets of old saw our days, and they wrote the scriptures to help us. So, when the present feels heavy and the future appears dark, here are two (of many) Book of Mormon verses to give you reason to be optimistic.
1. “A Better World”
Ether 12:4 says:
“Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.”
This scripture implies that there is a holy order of operations in life. Our belief in God, or our faith, will help us “with surety” hope for a better world. In other words, faith is belief in God’s power, and hope is our expectation that God’s power will save us. He can actually make the world a better place.
But the holy order of operations doesn’t stop there. Our hope will lead us to “always abound in good works.” When we are propelled to love and serve one another as Christ did, we can feel the world becoming a brighter place.
2. “The Lord Knoweth All Things”
Have you ever read a detective novel and looked for clues to prematurely solve the ending? Sometimes we do this in our own lives, becoming sleuths trying to predict how the future will play out. Though the Spirit may give us insights or warnings if we need them, aspects of our futures will always remain somewhat mysterious.
Nephi felt this way as he traveled through the wilderness and overseas with his family. In 1 Nephi 9:5–6, he admits to his limited knowledge, saying,
“Wherefore, the Lord hath commanded me to make these plates for a wise purpose in him, which purpose I know not.
But the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of all his words.”
I’m sure Nephi would’ve been shocked to learn that his writings would eventually be read around the world. Though he didn’t know what the future held, he was obedient and faithful and successfully fulfilled the Lord’s purposes.
When we feel anxious about our story, we can remember that the Lord is the author. Even though we may be going through trials and don’t know how everything will play out, we can find comfort in knowing that He does. And as we keep working toward good and righteous goals, He can make the end of our story better than we could’ve imagined.
For more inspiring content, check out the articles below:
▶ 2 doctrines to hold on to when your child steps away from the Church
▶ A moment when we all need to give ourselves more grace
▶ One of the best antidotes to fear of the future
▶ 4 simple ways to help ‘Come, Follow Me’ feel special (and fun)