“Filling Their Souls with Joy and Consolation”
Because of the persecution of the prideful members of the Church, humble followers of Christ were being forced to “wade through much affliction.” As a result of the pain and affliction, these Saints fasted and prayed much, which resulted in greater faith in Christ, which in turn filled their souls with joy and consolation. Even amidst affliction, firm faith in Christ-nurtured and strengthened through fasting and prayer-brings “the peaceable things of the kingdom” (see D&C 36:2; D&C 42:61). It is this peace and joy the Savior promised to give to those who faithfully seek it (see John 14:27).
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