‘The prophet Lehi taught, “Men [and women] are, that they might have joy.”  There are many reasons why peace, joy, and happiness may elude us in this life, including poverty, war, natural disasters, and unexpected setbacks in employment, health, and family relationships.

‘But even though we cannot control those external forces that impact our lives here on earth, as we strive to become faithful disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ, we can find peace, joy, and happiness despite the worldly troubles that swirl around us.‘

Throughout scriptural history, the Lord has promised peace to His followers. The Psalmist wrote, “The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace” (Ps. 29:11). Isaiah wrote:

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Nephi foresaw the day among his descendants when “the Son of righteousness shall appear unto them; and he shall heal them, and they shall have peace with him” (2 Ne. 26:9).

In modern day revelation the Lord tells us how  we can obtain this promised peace:

D&C 59:23 But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.

Just hours before He was to begin that glorious yet awful process of the Atonement, the Lord Jesus Christ made this significant promise to His Apostles:

“The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you:….” (John 14:26–27).

Was He promising his apostles that they were going to have a nice quiet restful life without any cares or troubles?

Certainly the historical record would suggest otherwise. Those original Apostles experienced a great deal of trial and persecution throughout the remainder of their lives, which is probably why the Lord completed the promise in verse 27 with these words: “Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).

The Lord tells us that he does not grant us immunity from the troubles of the world but that in the midst of turmoil we can find the peace that the gospel brings:

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Where and how do you find peace in the midst of turmoil?

‘One of my children once said, “Dad, I wonder if I will ever be able to make it.” I responded, “All Heavenly Father asks of us is to do the very best we can each day.” Brothers and sisters, do the best you can do day after day, and before you know it, you will come to realize that your Heavenly Father knows you and that He loves you. And when you know that—really know it—your life will have real purpose and meaning and you will be filled with joy and peace.‘

Do you ever wonder if you will ever be able to make it? Where do you find reassurance?

What do you think Elder Ballard means when he talks about doing the best we can each day?

Elder Ballard goes on to give some examples of how we can maintain the ‘true, pure and simple gospel of Jesus Christ.

Which principles stuck out to you?

What principles does Elder Ballard teach about the sabbath day?

What principles does Elder Ballard teach about ministering?

What principles does Elder Ballard teach about testimony bearing in fast and testimony meetings?

What principles does Elder Ballard teach about the temple?

Are there areas where we are overcomplicating things (in our personal lives or in our church adminstration) and moving away from the true, pure and simple gospel of Jesus Christ?

What blessings will come to us as we seek to live the true, pure and simple gospel of Jesus Christ?

(Text in italics are excerpts from Elder Ballard’s address.