In our time we are going through an increasingly difficult time of refining and testing. The tests are more subtle because the lines between good and evil are being eroded. Very little seems to be sacred in any of our public communication. In this environment we will need to make sure where we stand all of the time in our commitment to eternal truths and covenants." (President James E. Faust, "Where Do I Make My Stand?" Ensign, Nov. 2004, 21)

We discussed the Atonement today and why personal suffering is necessary for our growth and understanding. We discussed the concept of passing through our own trials and affliction (our own Garden of Gethsemane) in this life. When we experience this, we will become more purified and gain a better understanding of the Savior's Atonement for us.

We concluded that no one wants to suffer. However, when we do experience suffering to any degree and when we draw closer to God in humble prayer we can gain a better understanding of the purpose of the Atonement for us personally. It is a humbling experience pondering our own trials and afflictions and then by the tender influence of the Holy Ghost realize that God does understand our feelings.

It is possible to understand the Atonement if one will ask God and then patiently wait for the answer that God knows he will understand.