I, the Lord God, Do Visit My People in Their Afflictions

The Nephites following the prophet Alma were required to endure captivity for a time, but the Lord helped them through their trials and declared the following to them:

“…Ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.” (Mosiah 24:14)

Questions:

-Can a person come to know God more from the trials he or she passes through than from times of ease?

-Are greater blessings granted to those who are keeping the commandments and following the voice of the Spirit?