Finding A Testimony

In order to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sometimes nicknamed the Mormon Church, one must have a strong and fervent testimony.  Elder Hales defines a testimony as a “personal revelation from God, revealing the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.”  A testimony is not a physical entity and cannot be seen.  It is a confirmation that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true.  It is a strong belief that the Church is true and valid.  It is this conviction that drives members to want to share their knowledge with those around them.

In the LDS Church, members are encouraged to seek after a testimony through attending church meetings, reading scriptures, learning basic gospel principles, keeping the commandments, and finally praying to Heavenly Father.  If one asks with a sincere heart and honest intent to know if the Church is true, he will receive an answer from Heavenly Father.  On the first Sunday of each month, time is set aside for church members to share their testimonies with their peers.  Church members are invited to share their own personal experiences, and express gratitude for the Church.  Through sharing testimony, the testimonies of those in the congregation are strengthened as well as the speaker’s. At the core of a Mormon testimony should be three main principles.  God is the Father and Jesus is the Christ.  God love us, we are his children, and He has a plan for us to come to earth, receive physical bodies, and return to Him.  We should strive daily to be like our Heavenly Father and also follow the example of Jesus Christ. Another main component of a testimony is a basic belief in the Savior’s atonement.  We believe that Jesus Christ came to earth to suffer for our sins so we can be repent and be forgiven of our sins.

Another basic belief is that Joseph Smith restored the gospel of Jesus Christ upon the earth.  Through Joseph Smith, the Old and New Testaments and Book of Mormon were brought forth unto the people.  Mormons also believe that prophets are called of God and still receive counsel and revelation from God.   The Book of Mormon is a true record.

Having a testimony will change every aspect of a person’s life.  A testimony will allow a person to feel closer to their Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ.  A strong testimony will allow for the Holy Ghost to be a constant companion for those who have been baptized.  Mormons believe that a family headed by two people with strong testimonies will bring a greater amount of peace and love into the home.  A testimony can bring comfort during hard times and allow us to feel a greater joy during good times. Once someone has attained a personal testimony, he or she should continue to strengthen it through daily scripture study and prayer.  Those who have strong testimonies are encouraged to share them with those around them so they might feel the joy that the gospel brings into lives.