Bishop Keith B. McMullin
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"The gospel of Jesus Christ provides answers and solutions to all of the world's problems."
Terrible calamities of recent years "occur with increasing frequency and intensity. Natural forces are ferocious in their scope; human assaults are merciless in their carnage, and unchecked appetites are leading to licentiousness, crime and family decay approaching epic proportions."
Those who place their faith in God and understand the principle of adversity are best able to endure.
"Calamities are a form of adversity, and adversity is a necessary part of our mortal experience. It is part of Heavenly Father's plan for the happiness of his children. If our hearts are right before God, adversity will school us, help us overcome our carnal nature and nurture the divine spark within us. . . . Adversity helps us to see where we need to repent, to bring into subjection baser instincts, to embrace righteousness and enjoy peace of conscience."
While humans cannot always control the circumstances of their lives, "it is verily true that such things do not ultimately control our personal world. We do."
Church members are commanded to be prepared both temporally and spiritually. Payment of tithes and offerings offers personal safety and blessings to others in times of need.
"Our duty as Latter-day Saints is to prepare ourselves, this earth and its inhabitants for the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ."
