Slowing Down in Stormy Conditions — Mosiah 4–6

Come, Follow Me: Book of Mormon 2024 (April 29—May 5)

Tree rings tell the life story of the tree. Thick rings speak of seasons with blossoms and growth, while thin rings divulge times of struggle and hardship. When conditions are not ideal, trees slow down their growth and focus their energy on the essential elements for survival.

Mosiah 4 is filled with the rich words of King Benjamin–a servant leader. It’s a glorious story of conversion and taking on the name of Christ in words and deeds. This is a chapter that could be read daily for direction, hope and inspiration.  

Embedded in it is a recognition that there are seasons and days of life when we can do many things easily and times when we can only do the bare necessities. 

“And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order” (Mosiah 4:27).

The modern-day words of Joy D. Jones could be added to King Benjamin’s, “In this conference, we will hear truths that inspire us to change, improve, and purify our loves. Through personal revelation, we can prevent what some call “general conference overwhelm–when we leave so determined to do all now. Women wear many hats, but it is impossible, and unnecessary, to wear them all at once. The Spirit helps us determine which work to focus on today.” 

This message was repeated by President Nelson in our last conference. “Nothing will help you more to hold fast to the iron rod than worshipping in the temple as regularly as your circumstances permit.” 

Learning how to slow down a little, discovering the “optimum speed for our circumstances” (Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf) while focusing on the things that matter most is a divine practice. For those most comfortable with speed and busyness, the Holy Ghost will be an essential partner in guiding us to know what is most needful when life is hard. 

Do Hard Divinely Better Lesson 17: “It is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions” (Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf).