Watch the video above and talk about it with a friend or mentor.

Suffering doesn't mean that we're unworthy or that God is punishing us, but actually reveals God's profound love for us.

Key Points:

  • Many see suffering as evidence of God’s displeasure.
  • Suffering is a privilege.
  • Suffering purifies our hearts.
  • Suffering draws us nearer to God.

See Also: Self-care

Talk About It
  1. How did you understand suffering when you were LDS?
  2. Can you relate to the idea of “linear theology”? Explain.
  3. Read Philippians 1:29. Does it surprise you to see suffering referred to as a privilege? Why or why not?
  4. Explain the idea of “second loves”. Give some examples.
  5. How do these secondary loves undermine our relationship with God.
  6. How does suffering purify our hearts from “second loves”?
  7. Do you agree or disagree that suffering actually reveals God’s love for us? Explain.