by Jenica Ward
BYU (Brigham Young University) is operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often mistakenly called the “Mormon Church.” As part of their undergraduate coursework, BYU students take multiple semesters of spiritually uplifting, stimulating religion classes.
In this series (see below), students enrolled in scripture study classes have shared their thoughts, insights, and reflections on the Book of Mormon in the form of letters to someone they know. We invite you to take a look at their epiphanies and discoveries as they delve into the scriptures.
Mormon Thoughts: “Letter to my Husband”
Hi Sweetheart!
I love when I find scriptures that apply directly to our marriage. One scripture that made me think of us lately is in 3 Nephi 10:9-10. It’s when all the terrible destruction of the wicked is coming to a close, and the three days of darkness is starting to disperse. It says:
“…And it was in the morning, and the darkness dispersed from off the face of the land, and the earth did cease to tremble, and the rocks did cease to rend, and the dreadful groanings did cease, and all the tumultuous noises did pass away. And the earth did cleave together again, that it stood.”
Christ visited the Nephites after His resurrection.
So how does this apply to us you ask? Well I was thinking how the darkness, the trembling, the fallingrocks, and tumultuous noises could all represent the trials and challenges that we might face in our marriage or family in the future. I’m not trying to be a downer, but I would bet that at some time or another, we will face a trial together that will physically or spiritually shake us. When that time comes, I want to remember these verses in 3 Nephi.
My favorite phrase in these scriptures is when it says “and the earth did cleave together again, that it STOOD.” I am a firm believer that we can overcome any trial or challenge we will face if we will hold to each other and to the Lord. Just like all the physical devastation, our trials won’t last forever. Eventually they will end, and if we have remained faithful we will be able to cleave together and stand. I know that trials—even though they may be extremely difficult or frustrating—can bind people close together if they choose to let them. I know this because I have watched my family grow together as we have gone through difficult trials. I remember when my dad’s dad, Grandpa Mike, was slowly dying in the hospital. I have never seen my dad so emotional and sad. But I noticed how supportive, caring and loving my mom was toward my dad. I watched them grow together even though they were going through a difficult trial. I know that we can continue to grow closer to each other as a couple as we travel through life together, whether in good or hard times. Thank you for choosing to stand by me forever.
I love you,
Jenica
If any who might be reading this letter have questions or comments, I would be happy to hear from you.