The Book of Mormon speaks often of the importance of gaining a personal testimony of the gospel and of being open to receiving the truth. God wants us to know what’s true, but He can only tell us if we invite Him to do so. This is more than a mere token effort. We have to want to know the truth so badly we will do anything to obtain it, and will gladly act on that truth once we learn it.
It can be an unnerving experience to put aside our own will and agree to bend to the will of God the Father. This requires quite a lot of trust in people who were built to want to take charge of their own lives. The best way to learn to trust God is to spend a lot of time with Him, and to watch for His hand in your life. Notice all the ways He is looking out for you. Read the scriptures to learn more about God and Jesus. Spend more time on your knees praying.
As your relationship with God strengthens, you’ll find it easier to trust Him. You’ll gain an understanding of how to recognize the answers He gives you when you pray—because what is the point of going to God for help if you don’t learn to recognize His answers? You’ll soon discover the warm, safe feeling in your heart is God’s confirmation that you’re on the right path.
It’s critical, if we ask God for information or advice, that we act on that advice. The Book of Mormon warns us that if we refuse to act on what we know, or even refuse to ask God what is true—we will be held accountable for that decision. We have a responsibility to seek God’s word. There are many people and church’s competing for your membership and only God’s word can be trusted. He certainly knows best what is true. A person who decides not to ask because he doesn’t want to be held accountable will be held accountable for not being willing to learn the truth and do it.
31 And wo unto the deaf that will not hear; for they shall perish.
32 Wo unto the blind that will not see; for they shall perish also.
(2 Nephi 9)
When we love God, we want to do all He asks of us. We want to demonstrate our love by following the Savior’s example and by always staying on the path back to God. This means we must have the courage to put aside our own desires and instead align our lives with God’s desires.
The late Terrie Lynn Bittner—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—was the author of two homeschooling books and numerous articles, including several that appeared in Latter-day Saint magazines. She became a member of the Church at the age of 17 and began sharing her faith online in 1992.
