Each of us, as we face difficult challenges — be they emotional, physical, financial or spiritual— should recognize that we do not have to suffer them alone.

The gospel of Jesus Christ provides many avenues of comfort for us to draw upon in times of distress. Additionally, family members, priesthood leaders and home and visiting teachers are also resources we may draw upon when the need arises. Ultimately, though, it is up to each of us to face and weather the storms that come into our lives. How we cope tells a great deal about how we manage ourselves and treat those around us.

The story of Job provides a useful guide in dealing with adversity. Through all his trials, Job maintained an unwavering faith in the Lord. He remained confident that he would be delivered from his travails because of his faith and testimony: "For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth; And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God." (Job. 19:25-26.)

While our challenges may not be as Job's, they can be equally depressing on our minds and souls if we don't know what steps to take to overcome them.

President Spencer W. Kimball, who endured many trials in his life, said, "Being human, we would expel from our lives physical pain and mental anguish and assure ourselves of continual ease and comfort, but if we were to close the doors upon sorrow and distress, we might be excluding our greatest friends and benefactors. Suffering can make saints of people as they learn patience, long-suffering and self- mastery. The sufferings of our Savior were part of His education." (Faith Precedes the Miracle, p. 98.)

Certainly, no one deliberately chooses distress or suffering in his or her life but if, as President Kimball wrote, we view these challenges as opportunities to grow spiritually and endure them, we gain more insight into ourselves as well as the divine mission of the Savior. Through that knowledge then, we are better able to cope with our own situation and lend needed support to others, who may be suffering as we, or enduring even greater challenges. By building up our own spiritual reserves, we can be ready when difficulties do arise.

The apostle Paul wrote: "… but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope. And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." (Romans 5:3-5.)

Paul provides the steps for overcoming adversity. If we can see the end result — hope and the blessings of the Holy Ghost in our lives — we are better able to face the challenges before us and they do not appear as insurmountable as before.

President David O. McKay taught, "There is no development of character without resistance; there is no growth of spirituality without overcoming." (Conference Report, October 1945, p. 133.)

President Gordon B. Hinckley wrote, "If as a people we will build and sustain one another, the Lord will bless us with the strength to weather every storm and continue to move forward through every adversity." (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley, p. 7.)

We can gain comfort from our leaders' examples and counsel as well as the promises contained in the scriptures:

"Be patient in afflictions, for thou shalt have many; but endure them, for lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days." (Doctrine and Covenants 24:8.)