D & C 121 - 123 O God, Where Art Thou?

Revelation Date: March, 1839

Revelation Place: Liberty Jail, Missouri

Section 121 - Historical Background: By March 20, 1839, Joseph Smith had reached the lowest depths of utter despair. The physical dimensions of the restored church had been shattered. The saints had been forced to abandon their homes and property in the depths of winter, fleeing over the entire width of Missouri to escape the murdering mobs and Governor Bogg’s unsparing militia. Joseph’s father would eventually die from this suffering, and all this while Joseph lay helpless in prison. The hopes for the new Jerusalem and the mighty Zion were demolished. In this cold, miserable dungeon, Joseph saw no possibility of a fair trial or any way to escape. He and his companions were barely surviving with scraps and slops from the warden’s kitchen, some of which was poisoned and other offerings were described by the guards as “Mormon beef” suggesting a fallen saint's human flesh. In the midst of all this, Joseph’s broken heart cried out to God in anguish.

• Recap: Joseph pleads, “O God, where art thou?” and is answered lovingly and powerfully, “Peace be unto thy soul.…Fear not… for God shall be with you.” All these enemies of God and of His anointed, are cursed and will “not escape the damnation of hell.” The faithful will receive the Spirit of God, receiving all knowledge, blessings and exaltation. Many are called, but few are chosen because their hearts are set on the things of the world and they exercise unrighteous dominion. The chosen will consistently exercise faith, love, charity and virtue.

Section 122 - Historical Background: This revelation is a continuation of section 121, given in the Liberty jail, Missouri.

• Recap: Joseph, the Lord’s beloved prophet, receives comfort and encouragement. The faithful saints will continue to honor and support him. These tribulations will be for Joseph’s experience for good, and the Lord will stand by him. The Lord has descended below all these things. The days of Joseph are divinely set and cannot be altered by men. Therefore, fear not what men can do, for God shall be with him forever and ever.

Section 123 - Historical Background: This section is a continuation of sections 121 and 122, given in the Liberty jail, Missouri.

• Recap: It is the duty of the saints to keep record of all their losses in life, property and sufferings, including the names of all the offenders. Gather up by committee all the libelous publications. This is done so all the enemies are exposed and left without excuse. Furthermore, it is the duty of the saints, with great earnestness, to bring to light the darkness of evil and expose the wicked. Do not consider this insignificant, for by small things, great things will come to pass. And then stand still and see the salvation of God revealed.