Gems-Teachings: The Peace the Gospel Brings

[invitingspirit]

"Christ's promise is simple and sublime: 'Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid' (John 14:27). Brothers and sisters, turmoil is raging all about us. Economies are in distress; families are struggling; we are living in, as President Hinckley has said, 'perilous times' ('The Times in Which We Live,' Ensign, Nov. 2001, 72; Liahona, Jan. 2002, 83). But the living waters still offer peace and joy. When we live righteously, when we have done all we can do, one of the gifts we receive is confidence. The Lord tells us, 'Be still and know that I am God' (D&C 101:16). In the midst of chaos, we must pause. We must listen for the Spirit that tells us, 'All is well!' ('Come, Come, Ye Saints,' Hymns, no. 30) just as the early Saints had to do. There is cause to be concerned, but there is greater reason to be at peace."

(Kathleen H. Hughes, "Blessed by Living Water," Ensign, May 2003, 15)