*Note: Before reading the following, it would make more sense and likely mean more if you were acquainted with the story of the Jaredites. Click here for a summary of their story.
A few days ago, as I was reading in the 6th chapter of Ether, my attention a was drawn to verse 11. The specific number of days it took for the Jaredites to travel across the ocean had never stood out to me before, but suddenly I was struck by the fact that they were on the water 344 days. What came into my heart, next, was a profound understanding: the Lord was conscious of every day of their trouble upon the water. Let me say that, again. The Lord knew the exact number of days they would have to suffer through this tribulation. This verse could have been written, “And thus they were driven forth, nearly a year.” But it wasn’t. In my heart I felt this intense awareness the Lord has for our suffering; that He cares for us through each day we ache, each day we plead for His deliverance, each day we cry out in fear and anguish of heart—every day is numbered to Him. I felt a surge of love wash over me and it was as if He were saying to me:
Stephanie, you will not suffer one more day than what is allotted for this trial. Your days on this ocean will not be forever. I know exactly how long it will be, and I promise you, it will not be one...day...longer. Know that I have been with you every single day and will continue forward with you through each and every day. The shore is in sight and you will come forth, on solid land once more. I will meet you there, and we shall rejoice together.
I am amazed, continually, at the love of my Lord; this gracious and compassionate God, who loves me enough to be with me through every experience, every day of my life. I cannot imagine a greater friend. And what astounds me is that He is the same God for all people. Not one person does He deny. All who come to Him receive the same gracious gift of His divine hope and healing. It is my prayer and hope that you will discover this for yourself, that you may also come to experience the immeasurable love of Jesus Christ. There is nothing of greater worth than this.
I created this visual piece with words inspired from the scripture story and the experience I had while reading it. I felt that God wanted this message to reach others, that it was meant to be shared. Please feel free to download and print it for yourself.
