My Simple Testimony

I realized I hadn't done this yet and thought I should. I'm going to be brief and simple, as a testimony should be. I just want to tell you what I know to be true from the bottom of my heart and with everything I am. Webster defines testimony as "proof or evidence that something exists or is true." Here is my evidence. My testimony.

I testify that God lives and Jesus is the Christ, our loving messiah. He was born of a humble birth in Bethlehem and lead the way for us to return to our Heavenly Father. I know the atonement is real. I've felt it's power and strength in my life and shall continue for the rest of my existence, both in this life and the next. I know, with a calming and beautiful peacefulness in my heart, that Joseph Smith saw God the Father and His son Jesus Christ that lovely morning in the Sacred Grove. I've been there, and the spirit is so strong and beautiful. But it doesn't take being there to know that, as I realized throughout my life. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet of the Lord. I know it. And he translated the sacred record that would become the Book of Mormon, the keystone of our religions, and of my life. It would be impossible for me to deny that I have felt the promise made in the Book of Mormon in Moroni 10:4. I know this book is true. The gospel of Jesus Christ is real and true. I know Heavenly Father loves us and guides us because He wants us to come back to Him. And yes, I know that Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God. The leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are inspired men who strive to serve the Lord and lead us back to Him. And I know, with all my heart, that I will see them again. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior so much, and I want to live every day of my life worthy of their love as well.

This is my testimony. It's not going to make me a million dollars. It's not going to protect me from criticism and trials, but it will be my rock and my foundation for the rest of my life. I know these things are true. I bare witness of them in the name of Jesus Christ, our beloved Savior. Amen.