In this study of Doctrine and Covenants 98, Jeffery Downs explores the trials of the Saints in Missouri and the Lord’s call to “fear not” even amid persecution. Drawing from the sacrifices of early Saints—like grinding their dinner plates into plaster for the Kirtland Temple—Jeff emphasizes gratitude, patience, and friendship with God through service and continual communication. With stories from scripture, history, and modern life (including lessons from traffic and Corrie Ten Boom’s testimony of gratitude), this episode demonstrates how all things can work together for our good when we trust God’s laws and His timing.

Just as the Saints found strength in small daily acts of faith, you too can build consistency in your life by starting simple and keeping it going. That’s why Jeff invites you to download the MyStreaks app, a tool designed to help you stay intentional with the daily spiritual and life practices that matter most.

[00:00] The Saints in Missouri and the Call to Build Trials, persecution, and sacrifice around the building of the Lord’s house.

[02:23] The Lord’s Counsel: Fear Not, Give Thanks Reassurance to persecuted Saints and the surprising command to rejoice.

[04:49] What It Means to Be Called “My Friends” Friendship with the Lord through continual communication and shared experience.

[07:01] Mosiah 5:13 – Knowing the Master Through Service Serving God and others deepens our relationship with Him.

[09:31] Overcoming the Natural Man: Fear vs. Faith Lessons from everyday life about responding with patience and peace.

[12:00] Gratitude in All Things Corrie Ten Boom’s “thankful for the fleas” story and how trials bring hidden blessings.

[14:26] Romans 8 – All Things Work Together for Good Finding purpose and growth in suffering when anchored in Christ.

[16:43] Waiting Patiently on the Lord Prayers are always heard and answered according to God’s will and eternal purposes.

[20:33] Constitutional Law and God’s Law The Lord’s affirmation of freedom, law, and good citizenship.

[26:22] Why America Has Thrived in Innovation Civil stability, law, and checks and balances enable growth and creativity.

[29:05] When the Wicked Rule, the People Mourn The responsibility of citizens to seek righteous leaders.

Section 98 reminds us that while persecution, injustice, or even daily frustrations may feel overwhelming, the Lord commands us to rejoice, fear not, and give thanks. True friendship with Christ comes through service, shared experiences, and deliberate choices to follow Him. The early Saints’ sacrifices remind us that growth comes not in comfort, but in consistent devotion.

And that’s exactly what streaking is about—daily consistency that builds spiritual strength, resilience, and peace. To help you put these truths into action, start your own spiritual streak today with the MyStreaks app. Track simple, intentional actions that bring you closer to God, family, and your goals—one day at a time, every day.