Firmness of Mind

Fortitude is a foundational principle to ensure security in life. It is defined as “that strength or firmness of mind which enables a person to encounter danger with coolness and courage, or to bear pain or adversity without murmuring, depression, or despondency; passive courage; resolute endurance; firmness in confronting or bearing up against danger or enduring trouble.” What better characterization could there be of the strengths that support faith? Faith does not function in a vacuum that is immune to the discouragements of life, nor should it crumble when confronted by them. It is spiritual action that is rooted in personal conviction, and is most effective when coupled with a firm determination to stand strong in the face of all adversity.

 Jacob 3:1 But behold, I, Jacob, would speak unto you that are pure in heart. Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause, and send down justice upon those who seek your destruction.
 2 O all ye that are pure in heart, lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love; for ye may, if your minds are firm, forever.

LESSON LEARNED: Blind faith will be challenged by the vicissitudes of life. It is important that our faith is coupled with a firmness of mind, a firmness that often comes only after the challenges themselves are experienced.

FEEDBACK: WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH FAITH AND FIRMNESS OF MIND?