Tribulations of the Last Days

As we see the incredible challenges the world faces every day, it is important to reflect upon the fact that the great tribulations of the last days have all been prophesied.  We read of “an overflowing scourge” that will take place in our generation with “a desolating sickness [that] shall cover the land” (D&C 45:31).  We know that there will be “a great hailstorm sent forth to destroy the crops of the earth” and the Lord “will send forth flies upon the face of the earth” (D&C 29:16-18).  We read that “a desolating scourge shall go forth among the inhabitants of the earth” and will continue if “they repent not” (D&C 5:19).  We know that there will be “famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places” (JSM 1:29).  The scriptures also tell us that “war shall be poured out upon all nations” and that there will be “wars upon the face of the earth” (D&C 63:33, 87:3).  Knowing of these prophecies and others, we should not be surprised or alarmed or scared by the events we read of in the news each day.  The Lord has told us that “if ye are prepared ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).  He also told his disciples after describing tribulations that would come upon them, “These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them” (John 16:4).  In other words, when great challenges come upon the children of men that cause fear and trembling, we should not fear because we know that the Lord foresaw all of these things and will “make a way for your escape” if we are willing to keep His commandments (D&C 132:50).  I don’t know if specific troubles like Ebola are part of these prophecies from the Lord, but I do know that our own personal protection will come from keeping God’s commandments and holding fast to the words of Christ.