How can we be like Edward Partridge?

April 19–25

Edward Partridge was the first bishop of the restored Church of Jesus Christ. With his firm testimony, he was willing to sacrifice everything he had and endure hardship after hardship, for he knew the Church to be true.

What was he like?

The Lord said that Edward’s “heart is pure before me, for he is like unto Nathanael of old, in whom there is no guile” (Doctrine and Covenants 41:11). This means Edward had no desire to deceive or cheat others; his intentions were pure. Why is this quality important for Church leaders to have?

What sacrifices did he make?

When Edward joined the Church, his father’s family rejected him. As bishop, he handled the Saints’ consecrated property. He also sacrificed his own property (see Doctrine and Covenants 41:9) and endured extreme poverty with his family. He was tarred and feathered, persecuted, and imprisoned for his faith. While some Church leaders dissented, he remained faithful. He served the Lord with all his might until his death at age 46 (see Doctrine and Covenants 124:19).

“Since I have torn my affections from this world’s goods; from the vanities and toys of time and sense, and been willing to love and serve God with all my heart, and be led by his holy Spirit, my mind has been as it were continually expanding—receiving the things of God, until glories indescribable present themselves before me.”¹

Discussion

Why was Edward Partridge able to endure so much hardship? How can his example help us as we serve the Lord?