Family History Work Brings Peace in Troubled Times

When we think of family history, do we recognize the significant importance it can play in our individual lives? Have you noticed a significant difference in your own life as you sit down to work and get to know your family history?

There were two brothers, Orson and Parley P. Pratt, who lived in the 1800's. They were believers in Christ and wanted to follow His gospel. The two brothers loved each other, but there arose a disagreement between them.

Orson struggled to forgive Parley and, because of this, they were stuck in their feud for a while. In a talk by Elder Dale G. Renlund titled: Family History and work: Sealing and Healing. He says, "Orson learned about a project to publish a book on the descendants of William Pratt, the brothers' earliest American ancestor. Orson began to weep 'like a little child' as he glimpsed this treasure trove of family history. His heart melted, and he determined to repair the breach with his brother." It wasn't until Orson started to work on his family history that there arose in him a desire to forgive his brother after so long. The anger that he felt had subsided and he wanted to make things right with Parley.

What changed for Orson? Why, after holding a grudge for so long, was he finally willing to forgive? We learn in the scriptures that the Spirit of Elijah will turn the hearts of the children to their fathers. When we work on our family history, a spirit of peace will enter into our hearts and bless our lives forever. Many have found this to be true in their own lives. Our Savior Jesus Christ promises us immense amounts of blessings for learning and working on our family history. Finding peace in our individual lives is just one of the many great blessings we will see.

Elder Dale G. Renlund further goes on to say in his talk: Family History and Temple work: Sealing and Healing. "The people of Babel thought they could reach heaven by building a tower rather than by living the gospel of Jesus Christ. How can you help children understand that following the Savior is the only way back to our Heavenly Father?" Our Savior has taught us what will bring us peace and lasting happiness in this life. It's through Him! Taking shortcuts or distracting ourselves with other forms of entertainment will not get us to where we would really like to be. Putting off doing our family history work will only lead to us missing out on the great joy and peace we can receive from doing this great work. I know that by working hard and being consistent in our efforts to do family history work, it will bring us closer to our Savior and closer to our families.