Many today are troubled and distressed, feeling that the ships of their lives could capsize or sink.
"Be assured that there is a safe harbor," said Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin of the Quorum of the Twelve on Sunday morning. "You can find peace amidst the storms that threaten you. Your Heavenly Father -- who knows when even a sparrow falls -- knows of your heartache and suffering. He loves you and wants the best for you. Never doubt this."God has promised the faithful peace, even in their trials and tribulations. Draw close to the Lord Jesus Christ, He bears a special love for those who suffer, Elder Wirthlin counseled.
During Christ's mortal ministry, He healed, encouraged and offered a caring touch.
"Today Jesus the Christ stands at the right hand of our Heavenly Father," Elder Wirthlin said. "Do you suppose that today He is any less inclined to aid those who suffer, who are sick or who appeal to the Father in prayer for succor?"
Be of good cheer, and remember, adversity can strengthen and refine all, Elder Wirthlin added.
"If only we would look beyond our present suffering and see our struggles as a temporary chrysalis. If only we would have the faith and trust in our Heavenly Father to see how, after a little season, we can emerge from our trials more refined and glorious," Elder Wirthlin said.
Individuals must learn to walk in the ways of the Lord, the Creator, he continued, saying that Heavenly Father does not wish His children to cower, but square their shoulders, roll up their sleeves and overcome their challenges.
"That kind of spirit -- that blend of faith and hard work -- is the spirit we should emulate as we seek to reach a safe harbor in our lives," Elder Wirthlin said.
Members of the Church need never feel alone -- millions of other members stand beside them. Those who follow the Savior are willing to bear one another's burdens, mourn with those who mourn and comfort those who need comforting. Bishops, home teachers, visiting teachers and members of priesthood quorums and Relief Societies stand ready to help, Elder Wirthlin said.
"As you overcome adversity in your life, you will become stronger. Then you will be better able to help others -- those who are working, in their turn, to find a safe harbor from the storms that rage about them," he said.
All must awaken their hearts to the Savior's teachings. Living the gospel does not mean the storms of life will pass by, but faithful individuals will be better prepared to face them with serenity and peace, Elder Wirthlin said. Remember, Joseph Smith, who knew much about the storms of life, was promised "thine afflictions shall be but a small moment."
"The gospel gives us that harbor of enduring safety and security," he added. "The living prophet and the apostles today are as lighthouses in the storm. Steer toward the light of the restored gospel and the inspired teachings of those who represent the Lord on Earth."