Centuries ago, a teenage farmer lived with their family in a simple house, where they helped their father in the fields.
They had limited education, but a passionate interest in the church and in God.
With the country in commotion, it was a precarious time, filled with much confusion, with leaders contradicting each other and fighting for power—all claiming to have the answer that burned in the hearts of the people in this small town.
This person prayed frequently and fervently at an early age.
They saw visions and had visits from Heavenly Messengers who taught truth and offered encouragement.
They were told that they had a great mission to fulfill, and even as they doubted their ability to accomplish such a mission, they did not doubt that these messengers were indeed from heaven and must be taken seriously, for God Himself was calling them to the task at hand. They would not disobey, and would not relent until they had done what the Lord had commanded.
When the appointed time had come, specific instructions were given regarding how to fulfill their mission.
They had the support of their family, but many others thought they were crazy, so they experienced great hardship—including severe injuries and death threats. Nevertheless, they shared a message that embodied hope.
They taught others to not swear, to confess their sins, to be just in everything they did, to treat people kindly even while their homes were being looted and burned.
This person performed miracles, had the ability to prophesy, and loved to sing the hymns.
They were told where something was buried and did remarkable, nearly impossible, things in a short period of time.
They went to government leaders to discuss the state of affairs of the country, and prophesied that if the leaders and people would not obey the counsel given, death would come upon them.
They had many allies, some of whom later betrayed them. They were imperfect, bringing upon themselves the judgment of God.
They received unfair trials, and attempted to avoid imprisonment, but instead, turned and walked the other direction, directly to a martyr’s death.
As they died, they call out to Jesus.
They had fulfilled their mission.
It was later acknowledged that they had been innocent.
The events that transpired were so great that they are celebrated even today.
Of whom do I speak?
I speak of both Joan of Ark and Joseph Smith.
The similarity between their stories is astonishing.
Joan of Arc helped secure France’s victory over England in the 100 Year War, which led to France helping to secure America’s victory over England during the American Revolution.
Joseph Smith restored the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth in our dispensation, beginning in the free country of America and spreading outward to every corner of the earth. He also translated the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ.
What an inspiration these two young lives are to the youth of our day!
I believe God will continue to use the young and rising generation to bring about his eternal purposes in the days, months, and years ahead.
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LEARN MORE:
Seven Women: And the Secret to their Greatness by Eric Metaxas
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