Those who receive a Terrestrial estate include "they who are not valiant in the testimony of Jesus; wherefore, they obtain not the crown over the kingdom of our God." D&C 76: 79. This means that they actually did have a testimony of Jesus, were on the right path, received the Gospel and accepted it, but failed to be "valiant" in their testimony.
I do not believe this means rigid, dogmatic, insistent or bellicose. In fact, the religious people having these qualities have historically been the greatest persecutors of the few, humble followers of Christ in all generations.
I believe this means they were willing to suffer much for the Lord. To follow Him in meekness, gentleness, kindness, persuasion, and love unfeigned. To bear the crosses of this world, and to return good for evil. Valiance is measured by the patience you show to your fellowman when they say all manner of evil against you falsely, for His sake. It is measured by the things you suffer willingly and without complaint.
It is not to get a reward in this life. Nor is it to be given acclaim, recognition, applause or chief seats.
It is to minister to others, rather than to be ministered unto.
When I think of the greatest examples of such conduct as would be truly described as "valiant," I think of mothers and what they have done and do to bring, bear, love and raise children in this world. Creation itself is renewed every time a new, innocent life is brought into this world.
Well put.
ReplyDeleteI think all those things you mention are what we should do to be valiant and I think we can work at doing those things ourself. Christ did all those things. He returned good for evil because it was the right thing to do. I think it is more than that though. Christ did those things because he loved those who despitefully used and abused Him. I think if we are to dwell with the Gods we must be in posession of that kind of love because, God is love.
ReplyDelete