Questions and Answers

“I haven’t had any powerful spiritual experiences. How can I share my testimony?”

“We gain or strengthen a testimony by bearing it. Someone even suggested that some testimonies are better gained on the feet bearing them than on the knees praying for them.”

President Dallin H. Oaks, First Counselor in the First Presidency, Apr. 2008 general conference (Ensign or Liahona, May 2008, 27).

Let God Prevail

“You can gain a testimony as you follow President Nelson’s teachings to let God prevail in your life by obeying the commandments, keeping covenants, reading the scriptures, praying, and keeping the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Heavenly Father can help you see and appreciate the little miracles that happen in your life so you can gradually strengthen your testimony.”

Rosewin C., 19, Philippines

Pray to “Hear Him”

“Even if you haven’t had any spiritual experiences yet, pray to Heavenly Father for the ability to ‘hear Him’ and receive confirmation of certain things you know are true. If your mind and heart are open, light and revelation will flow more often into your life. Soon you will know what works best for you when receiving revelation from Him.”

Chloe L., 13, Arizona, USA

Have Faith

“You don’t need powerful spiritual experiences like a vision. You just need faith. In Doctrine and Covenants 63:9 it says, ‘Faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe.’ Have faith, be consistent in following the Lord’s principles, and try to observe His hand in your life. Being thankful is a part of a testimony too.”

Rebecca J., 14, India

Everyone Is Different

“Everyone has different experiences. We might not have profound visitations like the Prophet Joseph Smith, but that doesn’t mean we haven’t had a spiritual experience. Getting an answer to a prayer qualifies as a spiritual experience. That might seem small, but our testimony is worth sharing if it’s based in truth, whether the answers we receive are big or small.”

Ramon S., 17, Mexico

Share Simple Beliefs

“Sharing your testimony is about expressing your gratitude and belief in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. In Alma 37:6 it says, ‘By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.’ You can testify about a scripture or something you’re grateful for that God gave you. You’ll find you have a stronger testimony by sharing simple things you believe.”

Hannah H., 16, Utah, USA

Learn from Past Experiences

“We all make mistakes, but through repentance, our mistakes turn into lessons. Our experiences can help us to help others see that the Lord is always there for them and will provide a way. Share your feelings and your life lessons. You never know who will need it.”

Andrea R., 18, Mexico

Ask

“You can obtain a testimony by reading the scriptures, learning from leaders, and by seeking the company of the Holy Spirit. In 3 Nephi 14:7 we learn: “Ask, and it shall be given.” If we ask with faith and a willing heart, all our questions will be answered, and we can obtain a firm, heartfelt testimony.”

David R., 18, Mexico

Press Forward

“Keep reading the holy scriptures. Keep praying. Keep striving. No one who keeps trying and keeps praying has failed. The Lord will bless you with a strong testimony to share as you keep pressing forward.”

Edezza T., 18, Philippines

Take Action

“As a missionary and recent convert, I’ve had many of my spiritual experiences within the last two years since my baptism. I’ve learned that if you want a testimony of anything, try doing it. To develop a testimony of sharing the gospel, try sharing it. Or read the Book of Mormon, pray, and see what the Spirit tells you.”

Elder Benavente, 27, California, USA

Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine.

What Do You Think?

“How do you personally experience the Spirit and His promptings?”

Send your answer and photo by September 15, 2022.

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