"Be Still and Know That I Am God"

Andreas Feininger (American, born France, 1906-1999)
Production. Copper. Molten copper pouring from a converter at the Garfield, Utah smelter of the American Smelting and Refining Company. This plant is producing vast quantities of the copper so vital for war purposes (1942)
Nitrate negative, 4 x 5 inches
Reproduction number: LC-DIG-fsa-8b08404 (digital file from original negative)
Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C.

A favorite metaphor in the scriptures is the refiner’s fire: “But who may abide the day of his coming? And who shall stand when he appeareth? For he is like a refiner’s fire…and he shall sit as a refiner and a purifier of silver…” (Malachi 3:2-3).

In the physical example of copper refining, photographed above in 1942, the processing of sulfide ore using pyrometallurgy involves the application of extreme heat, up to 2,300 °F. “I will raise up a pure people,” the Lord promises in D&C section 100:16. How does something or someone become pure? We are born without sin, but over time, impurities infest our lives.

Returning to metallurgy, smelting of copper is one of four stages to refine that ore into a pure substance that can be of use to others. Likewise, we all go through difficult periods of refinement that tests us, filters us, thickens us, and makes us solid.

Gospel Questions

D&C 98 is a revelation given through Joseph Smith to the Saints at a time when they were suffering. The Lord, referring to the Saints as His friends, told them to (a) not be afraid but let their hearts feel comfort (D&C 98:1); (b) rejoice (D&C 98:1); (c) give thanks (D&C 98:1); and (d) wait patiently, assuring them that their prayers had been heard (D&C 98:2). They were then promised that their troubles would "work together for your good" (D&C 98:3). Where in this message of instruction do you find peace and strength in your struggles? Do you remember a time where difficulties in your life actually "worked together for your good"? How does that experience impact your future approach to troubles?
Jesus instructs us to "renounce war and proclaim peace" (D&C 98:16). How can application of this principle impact your relationships with your family members and those closest to you?
Jesus describes how we should strive to be "the salt of the earth and the savor of men" (D&C 101:39-40). Think about the characteristics of salt in eating—as a flavor enhancer, and preservation agent, but how too much salt can be overpowering, distasteful and totally mask the underlying food. How do these characteristics relate to ways you can best interact with others as "the salt of the earth and the savor of men”?

For Children & Youth

Hi. In 1942, America had entered World War II, a global conflict that included all of the world’s most powerful nations, a majority of the planet’s countries and 100 million military personnel. The war required a lot of production of steel and copper to built ships, tanks, and other battle equipment. Maybe you’ve never thought about where metal comes from. This powerful image gives a small idea of what is involved. It takes a lot of work to turn something from ore in a rock to a polished metal. Do you think it takes a lot of work to turn a person into the kind of being he or she truly wants to become?

Gospel Questions

1. John Murdock's mission call was to continue essentially all of his life (D&C 99; "thou shalt continue proclaiming my gospel until thou be taken," verse 8). If every member is a missionary, how long is your mission call? What are you doing daily to fulfill this mission call?

2. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were away from their families and worried about them (heading to Section 100). They were told "your families are well" (D&C 100:1). Have you ever felt the worry or concern of your parents or an adult in your life? How does it make you feel to know that people who love you worry about you? What can you do to help them feel comfort when they feel concern?

3. Why do you think we can get to know God when we are still (D&C 101:16)? What about being still helps in this getting-to-know-God process?