What’s Behind A Mormon’s Testimony?

Every 1st sunday of the month, LDS Churches everywhere hold a meeting called fast and testimony meeting.  This meeting is an opportunity for members of the Church (or in some cases, non-members) to share their testimonies and thoughts with the congregation.

It’s what I affectionately call, “Open Mic night for Mormons” (although it doesn’t really take place at night…but you get the idea…)

Typically you’ll hear a lot of personal stories, things people are grateful for, and ALWAYS, without a doubt, you’ll hear the phrase, “I know-”  in conjunction with an aspect of the gospel.

Someone is bound to say something like,

“I know that God lives.”

“I know that Jesus Christ died for us.”

“I know that the Atonement is real.”

“I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God.”

“I know that Joseph Smith was a true prophet.”

“I know that Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God.”

“I know that this church is true.”

Before my conversion I used to sit and harshly judge these statements.

Yeah right…how do you know? I’d think  You’re brainwashed.  You’re just saying that because it’s what you’re supposed to say.  

And many other condescending and judgmental thoughts (although in my mind, all of these “religious people” were the ones who were judgmental…cause that makes sense…)  Little did I know, until I experienced the Spirit for myself, just how wrong I was.

When attending a testimony meeting it is important to keep in mind that behind every testimony  is usually an experience.  A moment when the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, bears to our very souls the truthfulness of an Eternal principle.  It’s a moment of clarity in an unclear world.

Sometimes these experiences are shared in depth but most of the time they are very sacred.  I have had some extremely sacred experiences that will never be shared over the pulpit or on this blog or really to anyone.  They are between God and myself.

However, they have allowed me to say, with clear conscience before God, that I know. 

I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is true.

Make no mistake, it is not flesh and blood that has revealed this unto me, but my Father in Heaven.  Critics of the Church falsely accuse that this is an emotion.  It is not.  I have lived both sides of the tracks.  I have lived my life without the Spirit and my life with the Spirit.  I know the difference between the Holy Ghost and emotion.

Should you inquire honestly, with faith, sincerity and real intent, the Holy Ghost will bear witness to you too the truthfulness of all things.

Keep believing,

-Alex

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Alex is a blogger, writer and poet.  In addition to this blog he also writes a poem a day on his other site.  Click here to see some of his poems (and get a free ebook of some of his work!)