To Those Enduring Trials With No End


In this BYU Devotional (July 21, 2026), Jeffrey S. Bednar, an associate professor of management, explores the spiritual challenge of enduring trials that may never end in this life.

Core Message: 

Bednar emphasizes that "enduring to the end" is not just a passive wait for a trial to cease, but a joyous, lifelong quest to become like Jesus Christ. True disciples, he argues, continue to "row" through mortal storms by keeping their eyes on the Savior and drawing closer to Him through faith, even when circumstances do not change.

Key Personal Experiences

Samuel's Diagnosis: Bednar shares the journey of his son, Samuel, who was born with a rare condition called Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD). He recounts the spiritual realization that his son is a child of God, and that his trial is a teacher rather than an adversary.

The Metaphor of Rowing: Using the account of Christ walking on water to reach His disciples, Bednar illustrates that the Savior does not always immediately rebuke a storm, but He does walk with us through it.

Examples of Faithful Endurance

Bednar highlights three examples of individuals who have faced "unending" trials with profound faith:

1. Andrew and Diana: Who lost their daughter, Olivia, but found that the Atonement of Jesus Christ brought them closer to Him and increased their compassion for others.

2. Brad and Tiffany Smith: Who have navigated the challenges of ALS with a testament that the gospel provides perspective and joy even in the midst of physical decline.

3. Anne Bednar: His wife, who has faced a cancer diagnosis with a firm commitment to the refining journey of mortality and trust in God's plan.

Concluding Takeaway

Bednar encourages students to keep rowing, reach for the Savior's hand, and allow their challenges to shape their character. He testifies that while some storms may have no mortal end, they serve as essential vehicles for our spiritual development.

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