As a convert to the restored gospel, I have come to deeply understand and love Jesus Christ

As a convert to the restored gospel, I have come to deeply understand and love Jesus Christ. He is not just the Savior of the world; He is my personal Savior. From the moment I approached His doctrine, His unconditional love and infinite sacrifice have been the anchor of my faith. Reflecting on His mission and Atonement fills me with hope, especially as I study the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, two sources that illuminate His divinity and eternal purpose.

In Mosiah 3:7, Christ's suffering is described clearly: "And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and abominations of his people." This verse moves me deeply. It is hard to imagine the degree of pain He endured for me, but knowing this motivates me to strive to be worthy of His sacrifice. Also, in 2 Nephi 2:6-7, it teaches, “Redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah... who offereth himself a sacrifice for sin.” These words remind me that the plan of redemption depends entirely on Christ and that His sacrifice is a perfect expression of love. Furthermore, in Alma 7:11-13, I learn that He not only suffered for our sins but also for our illnesses, pains, and sorrows. This truth personalizes His Atonement for me. In my most difficult moments, I cling to the promise that He fully understands my struggles.

The Doctrine and Covenants further expands my understanding of His divine role. In Doctrine and Covenants 19:16-19, the Savior Himself declares: “For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent.” This reminds me that the Atonement is universal but applies personally as I choose to repent. Doctrine and Covenants 18:10-11 emphasizes the great worth of every soul, teaching that “the Son of Man hath descended below them all” so that all could be saved. Finally, in Doctrine and Covenants 76:22-24, it testifies: “And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives.” These words fill me with joy, knowing that He not only died for us but lives to guide us.

The testimonies of modern prophets have also been key to my understanding of Christ. President Russell M. Nelson declared in the October 2016 General Conference: “When your life is centered on Jesus Christ, you will have joy no matter what.” This principle has taught me that by placing Christ at the center of my life, I can find peace and joy even amid trials.

President Gordon B. Hinckley, in a youth devotional in Salt Lake City, Utah, on March 2, 1997, said: “Jesus Christ is the beacon that lights our way, the faithful friend who will never abandon us.” These words remind me that I am not alone on my mortal journey; Christ walks beside me. President Thomas S. Monson, in the April 2012 General Conference, testified: “Through Him, our mistakes can be corrected, and our lives filled with meaning.” This declaration inspires me to live with purpose, trusting that Christ’s Atonement can repair even my worst mistakes.

President Howard W. Hunter, during the October 1994 General Conference, stated: “If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and His restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong.” This teaching gives me hope, especially in times of uncertainty, because I know Christ has the power to make all things right in His due time. Finally, President Ezra Taft Benson, in a speech given at BYU on December 10, 1985, said: “The Savior is our perfect example, and the only way to follow Him is to do what He would do.” These words constantly remind me that my faith must not be passive; I must strive daily to live as He lived.

My testimony of Jesus Christ is not only the foundation of my spiritual life but also the reason I strive to improve each day. I know He lives, loves us, and guides us through living prophets. By studying the scriptures, praying with faith, and striving to follow His example, I have experienced the promised joy and the peace that only He can give. One day, I trust I will be with Him and our Heavenly Father, enjoying the eternal happiness He has prepared for us. Until then, I will continue seeking His presence in my life, knowing that His grace and love will never fail.