Testimonies can be far more than checkboxes on a developmental to-do list. We can experience promised blessings and enact meaningful changes in ourselves when we are motivated by our testimonies.
“Get a testimony” is only one of many tasks on our spiritual to-do lists, but it is arguably the most important. Over the pulpit, Church leaders encourage us to develop testimonies of the temple, the law of tithing, and the Word of Wisdom because testimonies foster obedience. In ecclesiastical interviews, priesthood holders ask if we have a testimony of the Savior because we can only access the benefits of his Atonement if we believe in the power of Jesus Christ.
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In his general conference talk “The Power of a Personal Testimony,” Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf says, “A testimony provides proper perspective, motivation, and a solid foundation on which to build a life of purpose and personal growth. It is a constant source of confidence…during good times and bad. A testimony provides us with a reason for hope and gladness.… It motivates us to draw nearer to God, allowing Him to draw nearer to us.”
Testimonies are not only foundational to gospel-centered living, but they’re also indispensable to lasting peace and purpose. When we cultivate our testimonies, we can endure hardship, enjoy happiness, and make better choices because we know who we are, where we’re going, and (sometimes) how to get there. Knowing and having a testimony of who we are—children of God—empowers us to act with confidence and kindness.
Discover ways to develop your testimony in Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s general conference address “The Power of a Personal Testimony.”
Source: General Conference
—Lauren Jones, Latter-day Saint Insights
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Find more insights
Read President Thomas S. Monson’s general conference address “How Firm a Foundation” to learn about building a stronger testimony.
Learn about the individual nature of testimonies in “Testimony: Another Thing That Makes You, You” by Ellie Castillo on Latter-day Saint Insights.