Church News - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

Published: Saturday, Oct. 7, 2000

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"Expressions of solemn testimony have long been important to the children of God upon the earth. Individual testimonies have strengthened this church from its earliest days."

One evening in April 1836, Elder Parley P. Pratt retired early with a heavy heart. There was a knock at the door. It was Elder Heber C. Kimball. He told Elder Pratt to travel to Toronto. Despite his worries, Elder Pratt departed. There he met John Taylor, a wise man who had been seeking the truth. He listened to Elder Pratt. Soon, he "knew for himself what millions of others have since known," that the gospel had been restored. Eventually he became the third president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

"Logic itself affirms that a loving Heavenly Father would not abandon his children without providing a way for them to learn of him."

One acquires a testimony by being sincere, studying, pondering, praying and having faith. A testimony comes in different ways. Some have a unique, life-changing experience. Others gain a testimony slowly. Don't be discouraged if the answer doesn't come immediately. My own story "is not a story of heavenly hosannas, or thundering shouts. It is not a story of lightning, fire or flood. But I have always known the reality and goodness of God. . . As a special witness of the name of Jesus Christ in all the world, I promise you that if you seek the Lord, you will find him."