Trial, Blessing, or Both?

by Hank Smith

Hank Smith says that, as he travels around the country, he often runs into people who have gone through some really hard things. "But," he says, "they almost always tell me something like this: 'You know, it has really turned out to be a blessing.'" In this inspiring new talk, Brother Smith helps us understand the role of trials in our lives. He quotes Elder Neal A. Maxwell, who said that trials come in three forms: trials we bring upon ourselves, trials that are part of our mortal existence, and trials through which God is shaping and directing our lives. "Often we can't see the Lord's hand in our lives until long after the trials have passed," says Brother Smith.

Using stories and examples from the scriptures, Church leaders, and others, Brother Smith illustrates how trials can lead to triumphs. He shares the story of Orville and Wilbur Wright, who used setbacks in their lives to focus their energies into building the first successful airplane. He quotes Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, who said, "Often the most difficult times of our lives are essential building blocks that form the foundation of our character and pave the way to future Opportunity, understanding, and happiness." And for those trials that never seem to end, Brother Smith reminds us that his favorite phrase from the Book of Mormon says "And it came to pass," not "And it came to last!"

Genres: Religion, Lds, Teen

Audio CD

Published October 1, 2018

About the author

Hank Smith enjoys teaching in the Religious Education Department at BYU and is a favorite speaker for Especially for Youth, Best of Especially for Youth, and BYU Education Week.

Hank and his wife, Sara, were both born and raised in St. George, Utah. They are the parents of one daughter and four sons. Brother Smith enjoys running marathons and eating lots and lots of ice cream (which is why he runs marathons). More than anything else, he loves being at home spending all day with his wife and children.

You can follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hanksmithcds

Reviews

[Trpusey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Garrett and I just finished listening to this. Love Hank Smith!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

We had our last big ski trip of the winter and listened to the last Hank Smith talk that I can find on the Desert Book Plus App😭. My kids have loved all his talks.

In this talk he refers to Joseph of Egypt, three types of trials (ones we bring on ourselves— our sins and sometimes others sins, trials that come from living on this planet, trials given to us by the Lord to school us). Elder Uchtdorf’s childhood was mentioned, the spotter used during bench pressing, the Wright brothers, Henry Eyring Sr., the Provo City Center temple and TiVo!

[Jamille Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book/talk I've listed to of Hank Smith and I have to say he is pretty great. I loved every minute of it and he's very engaging with the audience. I'd definitely would recommend to EVERYONE.

[Sansku · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and all the amazing stories shared by the author. It was inspiring and uplifting. I highly recommend it as a source of strength through trials.

[Happy Reading Watching · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great talk, this one is a new favorite!
Perfect for 2020 :)

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an inspiring talk. A great reminder that yes, we have trials, but press forward and one day you'll see the blessing.

[Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. This is a recorded fireside. It’s only about 65-75 minutes long, but I really enjoyed it. It gives good perspective on trials.

[Danni · Rating 4 out of 5]

amazing especially for right now.

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a MUST-LISTEN-TO for EVERYONE! Because we will all face trials as some point!
This will help you through your trials as well as help you guide someone else through theirs.