The writings of latter-day prophets clearly teach that the…
“The writings of latter-day prophets clearly teach that the sorrows and sufferings endured by Adam and Eve upon their leaving the Garden of Eden were ordained by God and were a necessary part of their-and our-earthly experience. President Howard W. Hunter, then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught: "We came to mortal life to encounter resistance. It was part of the plan for our eternal progress. Without temptation, sickness, pain, and sorrow, there could be no goodness, virtue, appreciation for well-being, or joy."”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Frames suffering as an intentional, divinely‑ordained component of mortal life that cultivates virtue and appreciation.
In simple terms: Suffering is purposeful for spiritual growth.
Key Takeaway
Pain fuels moral development.
Themes
theodicy
spiritual growth
human experience
divine plan
resilience
Mood
reflective
hopeful
serious
Type
theological discourse
motivational
When to use this quote
- grief counseling
- missionary work
- personal crisis
- theological education
Key Concepts
ordained hardship
eternal progress
mortal purpose
Practical Applications
- faith‑based resilience training
- ethical philosophy courses
Questions to Reflect On
- Does framing pain as sacred help or hinder coping?
- How might this view influence moral responsibility?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that attributing suffering to divine will can diminish agency and justify injustice.