One of the lessons of the Kirtland period is that our spirits need constant nourishment. We need to stay close to the Lord every day if we are to survive the adversity that we must all face.
Took twin grandsons to Kirtland, Ohio to spend time with them before they left on their missions.
Learned that this era of church history is known for a time of severe trials but also supreme blessings.
65 sections of the doctrine and covenants received in Kirtland and surrounding areas. Revelations brought new light and knowledge about topics such as the 2nd coming, caring for the needy, the plan of salvation, priesthood authority, the Word of Wisdom, tithing, the temple, and the law of consecration.
It was a period of great spiritual growth- "the spirit of God like a fire was burning." Moses, Elijah, and many other heavenly beings appeared including God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ (D&C 76:23, 110:2-4, 11-13).
One of those present was William Draper and described his experience, "My pen is inadequate to write it in full or my tongue to express it. But I will here say that the spirit was poured out and came like a mighty rushing wind and filled the house, that many that were present spoke in tongues and had visions and saw angels and prophesied, and had a general time of rejoicing such as had not been know in this generation."
But great spiritual experiences do not exempt us from opposition and trials. A few months after the temple dedication widespread economic crisis shook the United States. Later persecutions and mobs formed against the saints and many members apostatized. The majority however, including William Draper, held fast to the spiritual knowledge God had given them and continued to follow the prophet. Those who endured to the end "received into a state of never-ending happiness" (Mosiah 2:41).
One of the enduring lessons of the Kirtland period is that our spirits need constant nourishment. Harold B. Lee taught: "Testimony isn't something that you have today and you keep always. Testimony is either going to grow and grow to the brightness of certainty, or it is going to diminish to nothingness."
In some ways our day is similar to the Kirtland period. Financial distress and there are those that rail against the church and its members. Now more than ever we need to draw near unto the Lord every day.
If you are ever tempted to become discouraged or to lose faith, remember those faithful saints who remained true in Kirtland. Hold on a little longer. You can do this! You are part of a special generation. He will continue to grant you sacred experiences. With these and other spiritual gifts you will bless your life and those in your homes, wards, branches, communities, cities, states, and nations. It may be hard to see at times, but hold on a little longer, for "eye hath not seen nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him" and wait for Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; D&C 76:10; 133:45).
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