The life of Joseph Smith and the pattern of the Restoration are "excellent examples" of the process of gaining a testimony and becoming converted, said Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Saturday afternoon.

Photo by Scott G. Winterton

During Saturday afternoon's session of conference, General Authorities and members of a single adult choir raise their hands in show of affirmative support in sustaining leaders of the Church.

Photo by Scott G. Winterton

Elder Robert D. Hales

"As you listen to my message today of the events of the Restoration, look for the steps that lead to testimony: desiring to know the truth, pondering in our hearts, then feeling and obediently following the promptings of the Holy Ghost."

At the age of 14, Joseph Smith found himself caught up in a "tumult of [religious] opinions," Elder Hales related. Turning to the Bible for help, he read James 1:5. He went to a grove of trees to pray, leading to the appearance of the Father and the Son.

"Like Joseph, many of us find ourselves seeking the light of truth. Just as the world was prepared for the Restoration, each of us is prepared to receive the light of the gospel in our own lives," Elder Hales explained. ". . .Like Joseph, we must search the scriptures and pray. For many, this means overcoming feelings of doubt and unworthiness, being humble, and learning to exercise faith."

Elder Hales then recounted the years following the First Vision, including the appearance in 1823 of the Angel Moroni, the years of instruction, and the translation of the gold plates. "So it is for us. Some newly baptized members become discouraged about their wisdom and stature in the gospel — about what they do not know."

They forget, he continued, the spiritual maturation that was part of Joseph's early experiences. Long-time members, he added, should remember the need for regular spiritual instruction and learning.

Continuing, Elder Hales spoke of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery praying about a passage in the gold plates about baptism for the remission of sins, resulting in the appearance of John the Baptist and the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood, and later the Melchizedek Priesthood by Peter, James and John.

Then, in 1836, following solemn and silent prayer, Joseph and Oliver saw the Lord Jesus Christ standing before them in the Kirtland Temple. "Moses, Elias and Elijah also appeared there and committed the keys of the kingdom, the saving ordinances, to Joseph.

"Brothers and sisters, can we see the pattern? Every major event of the Restoration — the First Vision, the appearance of Moroni and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, the restoration of the priesthood, and the appearance of Jesus Christ following the dedication of His temple — were all preceded by prayer."

In relating the "undeniable witness of the Spirit of God" he has felt in his life, Elder Hales asked, "How did I learn these things?" He then quoted Nephi's "clear and compelling account of the process" as found in 1 Nephi 11:1.

"Once we receive a witness of the Spirit, our testimony is strengthened through study, prayer and living the gospel. Our growing testimony brings us increased faith in Jesus Christ and His plan for our happiness."

Then, offering counsel on how one begins this process of conversion, Elder Hales suggested the invitation extended by Moroni to "ask God, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true" (see Moroni 10:4-5). "For some, this happens quickly. For others, it happens gradually, over time, even a period of years."

After reminding the congregation of the need to retain the gift of the Holy Ghost through earnest effort and obedience, Elder Hales said: "With the Holy Ghost dwelling in us, we feel a love for God and all His children."

"Just as the world was prepared for the Restoration, each of us is prepared to receive the light of the gospel in our own lives."