Discovering Truth

I had hit a crossroads. I knew I had to make a decision. I was 17 years old and I wanted to know: Should I continue to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or should I take a different path?

Growing up, sometimes we would go to church, and sometimes not. Eventually I just stopped going altogether. After awhile I realized I wasn’t happy. I wondered if I started going to church again would I be happier? And more important than that, was what the Church taught true?

Looking for answers, I decided to read the Book of Mormon. As I read I focused on learning about Jesus Christ.

 Who was He? (3 Nephi 11: 10-11)
 What did He teach? (3 Nephi 11: 31-41)
 What did He promise? (3 Nephi 9:14)
 Should I follow Him? (Alma 5:38)

As I read, I started to feel lighter. I felt less burdened somehow. I felt happier. When I finished the book, I really wanted to know the truth. I knelt down and I asked God if the Book of Mormon was true. The answer didn’t come immediately—I waited on my knees. But finally, what happened afterward is best described in this verse:

“And it came to pass that while they were thus conversing one with another, they heard a voice as if it came out of heaven; and they cast their eyes round about, for they understood not the voice which they heard; and it was not a harsh voice, neither was it a loud voice; nevertheless, and notwithstanding it being a small voice it did pierce them that did hear to the center, insomuch that there was no part of their frame that it did not cause to quake; yea, it did pierce them to the very soul, and did cause their hearts to burn.” (3 Nephi 11: 3)

I didn’t hear a voice, but that’s what it felt like. My soul shook and my heart burned. I felt so full of light and happiness. It was an experience that I will never forget. When I think of it, I still feel that feeling of brightness and hope.

Since then, reading in the Book of Mormon and learning about Jesus Christ has continued to bless my life. Reading in the Book of Mormon and the Bible brings me:

• strength
• peace
• comfort
• happiness
• clarity

It has been over ten years since my experience that day, but I can still say that I know the Book of Mormon is the word of God. It is a good book. It is a true book. It is a life-altering book. That is my truth.

What truths have you learned in your life?

Sincerely yours,

Justina