Talk summary: 

Tests in “the school of mortality” are a vital element in eternal progression. Scriptural words such as “prove,” “examine” and “try” are used to describe knowledge about, understanding of and devotion to Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness and the Savior’s Atonement.

“The year 2020 has been marked, in part, by a global pandemic that has proved, examined and tried us in many ways. I pray that we as individuals and families are learning the valuable lessons that only challenging experiences can teach us.”

Two basic principles can guide and strengthen individuals facing life’s proving and trying circumstances — preparation and pressing forward with a steadfastness in Christ.

“I invite each of us to ‘consider [our] ways’ (Haggi, 1:5, 7) and ‘examine [ourselves], whether [we] be in the faith; [and] prove [our] own selves’ (2 Corinthians 13:5) What have we learned during these recent months of lifestyle adjustments and restrictions? What do we need to improve in our lives spiritually, physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually? Now is the time to prepare and prove ourselves willing and able to do all things whatsoever the Lord our God shall command us.”

Faithfulness is “trusting and placing our confidence in Jesus Christ as our Savior, on His name and in His promises. As we ‘press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men’ (2 Nephi 31:20), we are blessed with an eternal perspective and vision that stretches far beyond our limited mortal capacity.”

“I promise that as we both prepare and press forward with faith in the Savior, we all can receive the same grade on the ultimate examination of mortality: ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’ (Matthew 25:21)

Read the rest of the article on Church News.