We live in troubled times – times of wars and rumors of wars, terrorists, bombings, tsunamis, earthquakes, typhoons and the fear of pandemics. We also face personal struggles which may involve health, family or finances to name a few.

We have been warned that there would be troubles in the last days. Satan is indeed stirring up contention in the hearts of men as he makes his final press for the souls of Heavenly Father’s Children – thus trying to thwart the plan of the Father. But along with those warnings come words of comfort. “And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that ye are not troubled . . .” Matthew 24:6

Why do you suppose we are counseled to “be not troubled?” I believe it is because fear or being troubled robs us of our strength and prevents us from serving others, progressing spiritually, and living happy lives. “For God has not given us the spirit of fear: but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

President Gordon B. Hinckley has counseled that faith is the antithesis of fear. “If there is any one thing you and I need in this world it is faith, that dynamic, powerful, marvelous element by which, as Paul declared, the very worlds were framed (Hebrews 11:3). Faith – the kind of faith that moves one to get on his knees and plead with the Lord and get on his feet and go to work – is an asset beyond compare” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “God Shall Give unto You Knowledge by His Holy spirit,” BYU Speeches of the Year, Sept. 25, 1973, 109).

The kind of faith that President Hinckley is talking about comes from knowing God’s plan of which spiritual self-reliance is a vital principle.

President Marion G. Romney taught that, “The development of our spiritual nature should concern us most. Spirituality is the highest acquisition of the soul, the divine in man: the supreme crowning gift that makes him king of all created things.” (Marion G. Romney, “The Celestial Nature of Self-Reliance,” Ensign, June 1984, 3)

We must constantly strive to develop spiritual self-reliance as described by our prophets. It could be defined as our ability when coupled with the Lord’s blessings to make decisions pertaining to achieving our salvation. It is this type of self reliance that will avert our fears and help us walk in faith.

In a conversation that Nephi had with his brothers, Lamen and Lemuel, we find outlined the steps necessary to develop spiritual self reliance.

His brothers complained, “Behold, we cannot understand the words which our father hath spoken . . .” to which Nephi asked, “Have ye inquired of the Lord?” His brothers responded, “We have not; for the Lord maketh no such thing known unto us.” (1 Nephi 15:7-9)

Nephi assured his brothers, “Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said?—If ye will not harden your hearts, and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you.” (1 Nephi 15:11)

Is the process any different for you and for me? Certainly not! We must follow the same steps that Nephi encouraged his brothers to take – having soft hearts, developing our faith and then diligently keeping the commandments.

The Lord has promised us that “If ye continue in my work…Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” (John 31:32) I have come to know that our best example of one with perfect spiritual self-reliance was our beloved Savior. While pondering on this subject, the words of one of our sacrament hymns came to my mind.

By strict obedience, Jesus won
The prize with glory rife:
“Thy will, O God, not mine be done,”
Adorned His mortal life.

He marked the path and led the way
And every point defines
To light and life and endless day
Where God’s full presence shines.
Hymns, How Great the Wisdom and the Love, 195

Spiritual self-reliance is available to each of us – His children. May we look to the Savior as our example and to the revelations given through the Prophet Joseph Smith to give us hope and encouragement in these times of turmoil.

“Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.” (D&C 6:34)

“Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.” (D&C 6:36)

“…even so am I in the midst of you.” (D&C 6:32)

I testify that He loves us and stands ever ready to help us as we press forward in our desire to be spiritually self-reliant.