When the Darkness Closes In: Holding Fast to Hope in the Face of Despair

Brothers and sisters, sometimes the darkness doesn't just visit; it settles in. It creeps into the quiet moments, whispering doubts so loud they drown out the gentle whisper of the Spirit. We’ve all been there, haven't we? Moments where the weight of our struggles—the struggles of others—feels insurmountable. It’s in those moments that we truly learn what the gospel means, not just on Sunday mornings, but in the deepest valleys of our hearts.

As we continue our journey as rogue disciples, we learn that the gospel isn't just doctrine; it's a lifeline. It’s the steady hand guiding us back to the light when we feel utterly adrift. Recently, I was reflecting on a talk that addressed one of the hardest, most painful topics imaginable: thoughts of suicide. It was sobering, convicting, and ultimately, profoundly hopeful.

What struck me most wasn't the difficulty of the topic, but the consistent, unwavering thread woven through the teaching: Hope. Fr. Mike emphasized that our lives are not our own; we belong to another. This concept—that we are stewards, not owners—is foundational to our entire understanding of discipleship. It redirects our focus from the immediate, crushing pain to the eternal perspective.

The Anchor of Divine Perspective

When we feel like our individual struggle is the whole universe, it's easy to feel trapped. But the Church teaches us that our lives are part of a divine plan, a plan orchestrated by a loving Father. This isn't meant to diminish our pain; it’s meant to give us something larger to hold onto. It’s the difference between feeling like you are drowning in a private ocean, and realizing you are floating on a vast, eternal sea guided by the Spirit.

A Message for the Struggling Soul

If you are reading this right now, and the whispers of despair are loud, please hear this: You are not alone. If you are struggling, do not suffer in silence. There is no shame in reaching out. Whether it’s calling a friend, talking to your Bishop, or seeking professional help—that is an act of discipleship. It is choosing to trust the process of healing, trusting that there is always a next step, a different counselor, a different conversation.

This echoes so much of what we learn in our missionary discussions. We are taught to ask questions, to probe, to seek understanding. When we apply that investigative spirit to our own hearts, we realize that seeking help isn't admitting failure; it's actively participating in the work of becoming more Christlike. It’s an act of faith.

Being an Internet Missionary When It's Hard

As rogue disciples, our mandate is to be disciples everywhere, all the time. And sometimes, being a light means simply being present for someone else's darkness. If you know someone hurting, remember what was said: Don't lose hope for their soul. Pray for them. And, crucially, reach out with reasons to have hope. Don't just say, "It will be okay." Instead, share a scripture, share a testimony, or share a memory of the Savior's power that reminds you of the eternal promise.

This is the heart of preach my gospel. It’s not just about reciting facts; it’s about sharing the living water of hope. It’s about knowing that even when the immediate circumstances look bleak, the Atonement of Jesus Christ is the ultimate remedy.

If you want to deepen this understanding of how to speak about difficult topics with grace and truth, I highly recommend diving into the Iron Rod. There are some excellent chapters on ministering through grief and despair that will serve you well in your calling as an internet missionary.

Keep the Conversation Going

The work continues, even when it feels too heavy. I invite you to join us for our next virtual gathering where we'll be discussing how to minister to grieving families. It's a chance to share experiences and lift each other up. Details are posted in the group chat!

If you are new to this concept, or if you want to practice walking through tough questions, don't forget about Davee. He's ready to put you through a mock investigator session on ministering to those who are struggling. It’s invaluable practice!