D&C 54

As a priesthood leader, Newell Knight learned the Lord's will concerning those that break sacred covenants -

"...you shall stand fast in the office whereunto I have appointed you.
3 And if your brethren desire to escape their enemies, let them repent of all their sins, and become truly humble before me and contrite.
4 And as the covenant which they made unto me has been broken, even so it has become void and of none effect.
5 And wo to him by whom this offense cometh, for it had been better for him that he had been drowned in the depth of the sea."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 54:2 - 5)

Also remembering that -

 "...blessed are they who have kept the covenant and observed the commandment, for they shall obtain mercy.  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 54:6)

I also note that love and mercy will always be extended to them that "repent of all their sins, and become truly humble before me and contrite."  Yet, at the same time -

"...he that will not take up his cross and follow me, and keep my commandments, the same shall not be saved."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 56:2)

Where in my mind, "cross" would suggest challenges, afflictions, and tribulations that will naturally come with this life.