My Testimony

I grew up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I was baptized when I was 8 years old. However, it wasn't until I was a young pre-teen that I began to develop my own testimony which I have been building upon ever since.

I read the testimony of Joseph Smith (see: The Restoration of the Gospel) and the thought came to me that if a 14 year old boy could receive a clear, direct answer to his prayers then so could I. I didn't expect to have a vision but I knew that the Lord would answer me as I knelt down to pray about the truthfulness of this gospel.

It was a bitter-cold, windy day. Our home was miles away from any neighbors and near a small trickling river hidden by trees and brush. I rarely ever wore shoes as a child and, as normal, left them off as I took the walk to the river to pray. I knew it would be much quieter and peaceful there since my home was small and crowded. On the way there, the cold gravel-ground began piercing my feet. There, I knelt down in humble, yet simple, prayer. Immediately, I felt a warm blanket cover my body. I no longer recognized the cold pain in my feet. I walked home knowing, without a doubt that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the only true church on the face of the earth. There was not a voice or vision, only a strong feeling of sure confirmation.

I have had many experiences since then too precious and sacred to me to share openly. I don't claim to be a scriptorian- I'm not even a public speaker. My faith is based on my personal experiences which no one can dispute. I know that if you read the Book of Mormon, study the teachings of the gospel, and pray with faith about it that you will receive your personal and precious answer as well. Try it.