Human life is filled with trials and challenges that, at many moments, seem to exceed our strength. However, by adopting a celestial perspective and remembering our relationship with God and the eternal purpose He has for us, we can understand that, even though the difficulties may seem insurmountable, we are always surrounded by His grace and love, which enable us to overcome them.
Celestial Thinking and Earthly Challenges
In the context of German philosophy, two important philosophers offer ideas that, while originating from a human perspective, align with the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) regarding trials and suffering. Immanuel Kant, for instance, speaks about the importance of human autonomy and dignity in the face of adversity. Although his thinking diverges from a religious worldview, his emphasis on inner strength and human capacity to confront evil can resonate with our teaching that we can overcome any challenge through faith and effort.
On the other hand, Friedrich Nietzsche, in his work Thus Spoke Zarathustra, emphasizes the importance of embracing life's trials and difficulties. Nietzsche proposes that suffering, when confronted correctly, can be a means to reach a deeper and more meaningful existence. This philosophy of embracing struggle for personal growth can be interpreted similarly to LDS doctrine, which teaches that our trials are an opportunity to strengthen our faith and develop our character.
However, the fundamental difference between Kant's and Nietzsche's thoughts and the teachings of Jesus Christ is that, as Latter-day Saints, we know that our struggles have an eternal purpose. God not only gives us the capacity to face our trials but uses them to guide us toward eternal life with Him.
Scriptures That Teach Us to Look Beyond the Difficulties
LDS doctrine offers us numerous scriptures that invite us to look beyond our temporal difficulties, seeking a celestial perspective. These scriptures remind us that trials are not a punishment, but an opportunity to learn and grow. Below are six scriptures that illustrate this principle:
1. Moroni 7:47-48: "But behold, said the Lord, this is not the time for judgment upon you; but if you are not found worthy, you will be condemned before God. And now, behold, those who do not have charity do not know God; for God is love. And those who remain in Him are perfect, as He is perfect." This scripture reminds us that, regardless of the trials we face, God's love is a constant that enables us to endure and grow.
2. 2 Corinthians 4:17-18: "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal." The apostle Paul encourages us to look beyond the temporary hardships and focus on the eternal, just as celestial thinking teaches us.
3. Doctrine and Covenants 121:7-8: "And if ye are called to pass through tribulation, the Lord will strengthen you and give you patience. Your tribulation shall be but for a little time." This scripture is a reminder that our trials are not eternal, and the Lord will provide the strength we need to overcome them.
4. Alma 36:3: "And I, my son, desire that ye should remember that ye should have faith in Christ; and if ye have faith, ye will have hope, and if ye have hope, ye will have eternal life." In this scripture, the prophet Alma teaches us that faith in Christ gives us hope, enabling us to look beyond our struggles and focus on eternal life.
5. 2 Nephi 2:11: "For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, righteousness could not be, neither holiness nor justice, nor mercy, nor existence itself." This verse teaches us that trials and difficulties are an essential part of God's plan for growth and eternal happiness.
6. Ether 12:27: "And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. But behold, I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for the meek, that they may become strong." This scripture reminds us that our weaknesses and challenges are opportunities to draw closer to Christ, who gives us the strength to overcome them.
Celestial Thinking in Our Daily Lives
Celestial thinking is not only about the perspective we adopt when facing trials but also about the way we live our everyday lives. By adopting a celestial view, we are able to understand that our efforts and challenges are part of God's eternal plan. This understanding allows us to have lasting peace, even in the midst of life's storms.
In daily life, when we face challenges that seem overwhelming, it is essential to remember that we are not alone. God has given us tools, such as prayer, scripture study, and the companionship of the Holy Spirit, to help us overcome any obstacle. Likewise, our trials are an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with Him and with our brothers and sisters in the faith.
Celestial thinking also invites us to consider that our struggles are not only for our own benefit, but through them, we can help others. By facing our own challenges with faith, patience, and hope, we can be a source of inspiration and support for those who are also going through difficult times.
Conclusion
By adopting a celestial perspective, we can look beyond the difficulties and find peace and hope in the promise that our trials have a divine purpose. The philosophy of Kant and Nietzsche offers an interesting view on human capacity to face adversity, but the teachings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ give us the hope that, with His help, we can overcome any challenge. By looking toward the future with faith and hope, let us remember that the difficulties of this life are only temporary, and through them, we can draw closer to God and prepare for eternal life with Him.
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