Life's trials often cannot be avoided. But God has not left the world alone. General conference is a powerful reminder of this.

The 179th Annual General Conference, held April 4-5, gave stark evidence that, despite worldwide economic conditions, which President Thomas S. Monson acknowledged seem "to have taken a nose dive," the Church continues to grow, and blessings continue to flow to the world from it. In addition, the Lord continues to communicate through a prophet and apostles.

In sharp contrast to a world where cynicism seems to be gaining an upper hand, and where anger, despair and helplessness are common reactions to events of the day, the message the Lord delivered through His servants was of love, hope, counsel for avoiding unnecessary problems and an admonishment to be of good cheer.

"It would be easy to become discouraged and cynical about the future — or even fearful of what might come — if we allowed ourselves to dwell only on that which is wrong in the world and in our lives," President Monson said. Instead, he focused his Sunday morning address on the blessings that come from membership in the Church, and he taught powerfully from the examples shown by Church members throughout history who endured incredible hardships with faith.

These are "the experiences of those who have struggled and yet who have remained steadfast and of good cheer as they have made the gospel of Jesus Christ the center of their lives," he said. "This attitude is what will pull us through whatever comes our way."

President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency, spoke of hardships coming to those who have lived righteously. "My purpose today is to assure you that our Heavenly Father and the Savior live and that they love all humanity," he said. "The very opportunity for us to face adversity and affliction is part of the evidence of their infinite love."

Such perspectives bring great comfort and build courage at a time when news of unemployment, disappearing profit margins and shrinking net worth dominate daily headlines. These messages were enhanced by reminders to find ways to help other people in need, regardless of one's own circumstances, and by strong and convincing testimonies of the Savior, His atonement and His love.

To those who are not members of the Church who may have been confused in recent months by criticisms and allegations leveled against it, the message and spirit of conference should be clear. The Lord's Church is one of love, hope and salvation, not hate or anger.

That good news does not confine itself merely to those who are alive on the earth today. Many of the talks focused on temples, which continue to be built around the world, and which fortify the living while offering, through vicarious ordinances, eternal blessings to those who have died.

This conference also included the announcement that Elder Neil L. Andersen has been called as the newest member of the Quorum of the Twelve, filling the vacancy in that quorum after Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin passed away last December at age 91. This calling, coming through inspiration to the Lord's prophet, is another reminder of the Savior's love for mankind. He will not leave the world in darkness. Apostles and prophets will continue to guide His Church and the world will continue to be blessed by priesthood powers and keys.

"I am pleased to report that the Church is doing very well," President Monson said. "The work of the Lord continues to move forward uninterrupted."

With that assurance, suddenly there is no need to despair or worry. All will be well. And all who sincerely listen to or read the messages from this conference will be spiritually rejuvenated.