This week’s BYU-Idaho devotional was given by Cristina Franco, the second counselor of the Primary General Presidency for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her talk, titled “Be of Good Cheer,” discussed ways we can be happy despite the challenges we face or the circumstances we find ourselves in.
Franco started her talk by reminding students about how important it is that they are seeking a higher education.
“Students, I pray my message today will help you not only during your college years, but throughout your entire life. You are on the path to self-improvement,” she said in her address. “You are seeking and receiving higher education. I am certain your family is proud of you; the Lord is pleased with you and will bless you for your efforts and I am so happy for you and your future.”
Knowing the struggles that most college students endure, Franco touched on a few ways to be happy in such uncertain times.
One of those points was to understand that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us.
“I can’t think of anything that brings more joy and happiness to our lives than knowing we have a Father in Heaven, who loves us and knows us personally, who created a perfect plan of salvation, also called the plan of happiness, making His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, central to His plan so that we can return to live with Them once again,” Franco said.
She also said it’s a good thing to understand how service has helped those she’s met in her life to be happy. She encouraged everyone else to seek out those to serve.
“Opportunities to serve others are limitless. Kind words and deeds can lift burdens and cheer up hearts. Sharing the gospel and helping our ancestors on the other side of the veil through family history work are great services that brings joy not only to the recipients but also to us,” she said.
Franco ended her address by testifying that if we follow the guidance of the Savior, we will always be happy despite our circumstances.
“I cheerfully testify that we have a Father in Heaven, who loves us and knows us personally, who created a perfect plan for us to be happy on this earth. I know that as we keep the commandments, acknowledging His hand in all things, having gratitude in our hearts, and serving others around us, we will be of good cheer in spite of our trials,” she said.