The Endurance of Faith: Why We Stay

The winds of apostasy blow fiercely these days. We hear accounts, sometimes from those we love, of departures from the path, of testimonies fractured by doubt. It's a sobering reality, and one that demands we examine our own foundations. Lynzi Clyde's 'Why I Stay' podcast, with its simple yet profound question, has resonated deeply within our community. Why do we stay? Not merely because of tradition or comfort, but because we have felt the touch of the Spirit, witnessed the power of the Restoration, and tasted the joy of covenant obedience.

The recent episodes, particularly those addressing gratitude, spiritual trials, and even the complexities of polygamy, offer a glimpse into the heart of those who choose to endure. The question posed – 'if they could choose that, one day I could, too' – is a searing self-assessment. It compels us to actively cultivate the very qualities that bind us to Christ and His Church.

Consider the words of Isaiah: 'And in that day shall the remnant of Israel, the remnant of the house of Jacob surely say, The Lord doth perform his word perfectly; the remnant of Jacob shall be saved, and shall triumph over the oppressor in the land' (Isaiah 11:11). This remnant, this steadfast people, are not immune to the storms of life, nor are they untouched by doubt. Yet, their commitment, their faith, allows them to stand against the tide.

The formula for deepened gratitude, the visualization meditation for surrender, the discipline to cultivate daily gospel habits – these are not mere suggestions; they are the tools of spiritual survival, the iron rod that guides us through the wilderness. As the Lord taught, 'And it came and was applied more and more, and did enter into the hearts of all those who would not harden their hearts against the word of God; and it did enter into the hearts of those also who would not deny the name of Christ' (D&C 133:4). It is not enough to merely possess the word; we must actively invite its influence into our lives.

The honest wrestling with difficult topics, like the history of polygamy, is also a testament to this enduring faith. To confront challenging aspects of our history, to seek understanding through diligent study and prayer, is not a sign of weakness but of strength. It reveals a desire to know the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. As Elder Holland taught, 'Faith is not the blind acceptance of platitudes. It is the courageous embrace of uncertainty' (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, 'Lord, I Want to Thank You').

The call to 'Stand with us!' is not a plea for sympathy, but an invitation to join a fellowship of those who have made a deliberate choice to remain true to their covenants, to their faith. It is a recognition that we are not alone in our struggles, and that we can draw strength from one another.

Let us strive to be not just members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but disciples of Christ, rooted in the scriptures, guided by the Spirit, and committed to building His kingdom on earth. Let us remember that enduring is not a passive state, but an active choice made daily.