By Krista Ralston Oakes
The apostle Paul described his experience with “a thorn in the flesh,” from which he prayed for relief. This prayer was not answered as he had hoped. We can all relate to having a sincere prayer answered “no,” or “not now.” We understand that all prayers are answered in accordance with the timing and the good will of the Lord, who knows and loves all – and sometimes that requires patience or a willingness to see things in a new way.
Instead of removing Paul’s affliction, the Lord replied: “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” Paul later testified that he would glory and take pleasure in this and many other infirmities “for Christ’s sake, for when I am weak, then I am strong.” (See 2 Corinthians 12:7-12). Paul recognized the opportunity to use his gained strength as a source of strength for others:

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by Annette Lyon
My list of New Year’s resolutions that year wasn’t unique. I imagine many other women make similar lists all the time: Be more patient with my children. Plan ahead for Family Home Evenings. Read my scriptures every day. Lose the final fifteen pounds from my last pregnancy. I don’t recall anything unusual standing out on it.

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By John M. Tippets
Hearts of Courage is a true story of Alaska Aviation, perseverance, faith and prayers answered.

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By Alison Palmer
Scripture:“Successful . . . families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, [and] forgiveness” (“Proclamation,” paragraph 7)

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by Alonzo L. Gaskill

While it is commonly the case that many outside of Mormonism have strange ideas about who we are, and what exactly we believe and do – particularly in our temples – nevertheless, Latter-day Saints occasionally also have misconceptions about the beliefs and practices of other faiths. A prime example of this would be how some lay Mormons view the Roman Catholic practice of petitioning saints. While some in the LDS and Protestant communities see this practice as heretical, context is important for understanding what these acts of piety mean, and what the Catholic Church officially teaches on this matter.

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