have Alma’s afflictions worked together with his sincerity in calling forth the mercy of the Lord? “Often afflictions lead some to sincerity! When our souls have been stretched; when our bodies or our hearts have been racked with pain and frustration; when our present hopes have been dashed; when there is no place to go but to God for comfort—at such a time our words more truly reflect and mirror the soul’s sincere desire” (McConkie and Millet, Doctrinal Commentary, 3:240).