As I reflect on my journey to discovering the truth about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, one scripture stands out as a cornerstone of my faith. It’s not just a verse, but a testament to the way I came to know for myself that this Church is the true church on earth. Joseph Smith’s experience, as recorded in Joseph Smith—History 1:13, resonates deeply with me:
"At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion, or else I must do as James directs, that is, ask of God. I at length came to the determination to 'ask of God,' concluding that if he gave wisdom to them that lacked wisdom, and would give liberally, and not upbraid, I might venture."
This verse recounts Joseph’s pivotal moment of decision—one that changed not only his life but the course of human history. It also reflects my own spiritual journey, and I want to share how this principle—asking of God—led me out of spiritual darkness and confusion and into the light of the restored gospel.
From Doubt to Darkness
There was a time in my life when I was utterly lost. The world around me seemed full of confusion and competing ideas, and I couldn’t find any sense of purpose or truth. At that time, my doubts about God’s existence grew so heavy that I eventually stopped believing He was real.
I wandered in this spiritual darkness for years, feeling alone and without direction. My struggles consumed me, and I had no idea where to turn for help. Then one day, someone shared a scripture with me that would plant a small seed of hope in my heart.
It was James 1:5:
"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
That verse stayed with me. It was simple yet profound: I could ask God directly. But despite hearing this scripture and its promise, I resisted acting on it. The idea of prayer felt foreign to me. How could I pray to a God I didn’t even believe in?
An Invitation to Pray
Over time, several people encouraged me to pray. They told me that God loved me and wanted to hear from me. They promised that if I prayed with real intent, I could feel His love and receive answers to my questions.
Still, I hesitated. My doubts kept holding me back. Then one day, I had a deep and meaningful conversation with my father. He listened to my fears and uncertainties and encouraged me to pray.
“Why not just try?” he said. “What do you have to lose?”
Something about his words touched me deeply. He wasn’t pressuring me or demanding that I believe—he was simply inviting me to take a step.
My First Prayer
That night, after my conversation with my father, I decided to pray. For the first time in years, I knelt down and opened my heart to God. My prayer was raw and honest:
“God, if You’re there, if You know me, please show me. I don’t know what to believe, but I want to know if You’re real. Please help me.”
As soon as I finished, something miraculous happened. A feeling of peace and warmth filled my heart. It wasn’t dramatic or overpowering, but it was undeniable. In that moment, I felt known and loved in a way I couldn’t explain.
I knew that God had heard me. He was real, and He cared about me. That prayer marked the turning point in my life.
Discovering the Restored Gospel
Not long after that prayer, I met missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They shared the story of Joseph Smith and the Restoration with me. As they spoke about Joseph’s experience in the Sacred Grove, I felt that same peace and warmth I had felt during my prayer.
The missionaries invited me to read the Book of Mormon and pray about it, and I accepted eagerly. As I read its pages, the Spirit confirmed to me that it was true. The teachings of the Book of Mormon were exactly what I needed—they answered my questions and gave me a sense of purpose and peace.
But the real turning point came when I took action. I realized that if I truly wanted to know if the Book of Mormon was the word of God, I needed to act on it. With the help of the missionaries, I made the decision to be baptized.
A Loving Father and a Life-Changing Decision
It was during this time that I began to feel, more than ever, the love of a Heavenly Father. I had always believed in the concept of a loving father figure, but it was as I prepared for baptism that I truly came to understand what it meant to have a Heavenly Father who cared for me deeply. This realization gave me the courage and strength to move forward.
When I was baptized, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and joy that I had never experienced before. It wasn’t just a symbolic gesture; it was the beginning of a new life—one where I could feel God’s presence in my daily life.
Thirty Years of Testimony
Now, thirty years later, I can confidently say that the Book of Mormon is true. I have seen its teachings transform my life, bringing me closer to Christ and helping me navigate the challenges of life with faith and hope. I also know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, chosen to restore the fullness of the gospel to the earth.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the true Church of Christ on earth, and I know this with all my heart. This Church has brought me closer to Jesus Christ than I could have ever imagined, and it continues to guide me every day.
An Invitation to You
If you’re feeling lost, uncertain, or even doubtful about God, I want you to know that there’s a way out of that darkness. I’ve been there, and I know how hard it can be. But I also know that God is real, and He is waiting for you to reach out to Him.
I invite you to do what Joseph Smith did—and what I did—ask of God. Even if you’re not sure if He’s there, take that step of faith. Pray with sincerity, and trust that He will answer you.
Here’s how you can begin your journey:
1. Pray Sincerely: Find a quiet place where you can pour out your heart to God. Share your doubts, questions, and hopes.
2. Study the Scriptures: Read the Book of Mormon and the Bible. These sacred texts are powerful tools for receiving inspiration and answers.
3. Listen for the Spirit: Pay attention to feelings of peace, clarity, and love. These are often how God communicates with us.
A Witness of the Restoration
My testimony of the restored gospel is built on the foundation of asking God and receiving an answer. I know He lives. I know He loves us and hears our prayers. And I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is His true church, restored to the earth for our time.
You don’t have to remain in darkness and confusion. Through faith and prayer, you can find the light and truth you’re seeking. God is waiting for you to take that first step. Will you ask of Him? Your journey to peace and purpose could begin today.
Published by Marvin Flores with AI help.
No comments:
Post a Comment