I've been feeling the last couple of months the urge to, in some form, share my knowledge and testimony of my religious beliefs. It's been on my mind, but I also thought that I didn't want to appear boastful or pushy or offensive or, or, or... so here I am, finally writing in what I consider to be a safe place. This is not an exhaustive "list" of my beliefs, simply a summary of the most important highlights of it.
First and foremost, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for our sins and that He lives today. I believe that we can have a personal relationship with Him. The Atonement of Jesus Christ is the single most important event in the history of the world. It gives us a chance to repent of our sins, to draw closer to Him, to make amends, to start anew. I believe in personal prayer to our Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ. I have felt so close to Christ in doing so throughout my life. Whether it be to thank Him for my blessings, to plead for forgiveness, to ask for guidance, I have always felt Him there.
I believe that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost are three separate personages. I know this because I believe that God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith, the man who restored the true and living gospel to the world. When they appeared to him to tell him that no church on earth was completely correct, they were two separate people. They are one in spirit, one in mind and purpose, but two separate beings. I believe that Joseph Smith was a man of God, and that he was inspired to bring the priesthood back to the world, after it was lost in the dark ages. I believe that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon with the help of God. I believe that though he was a man, who made mistakes, as did Brigham Young and other prophets after, they were and are lead by God to "bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of men". I have a strong appreciation for the early days of the reformation on the church; for the pioneers who walked across the country to find religious freedoms, for the leaders of the church who were tarred and feathered and killed, for the building of temples and forsaking all material possessions to build up the kingdom of God on earth. Many lost children, husbands, wives and friends along the way, but saw a greater purpose. I believe that the Lord speaks to all people on Earth today through a living prophet and 12 apostles. I believe that the priesthood that was once on Earth in Christ's ministry is once again here. I have witnessed its power countless times.
I believe in the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I find peace and freedom in following its guidelines. I have been on both sides of this, seeing what it is like to not follow God's commandments and also following them. I can say with absolute confidence that I have always felt more peace and true happiness when I stand with God entirely. I believe in the law of tithing. I believe in the word of wisdom. I believe in the law of chastity. I believe in seeking after things that are "virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy." I believe in the different organizations that the church has. I am uplifted on a daily basis by the Relief Society. I have never seen a better display of true charity and love than I have through the Relief Society.
I believe in the Bible, Old and New Testament. I just started an Old Testament course (independent study) and I already have rediscovered the importance of the teachings of Abraham and Moses and other prophets of old. I also believe that the teachings of our living prophet and apostles today are scripture, and worth studying on a regular basis.
I believe in the power of faith. Through faith in things that are "hoped for, which are not seen, which are true", I have witnessed miracles. I know that God tests us, sometimes beyond our current limits, to stretch us, to make us better, to bring us closer to Him.
I believe in the importance of families. The family is the center of our society, and also the center of God's plan. He wants us to be happy, and we can be by embracing our families. I have felt more love in my heart in being a mother and a wife the last 4 and 1/2 years than I have the other 20 years of my life.
I believe in God's sacred temples. In these temples, sacred covenants are made, we are sealed to our families for time and all eternity, and we are promised great blessings in the next life if we endure to the end. The key word for our temples is "sacred", not "secret". I find that is important to clarify. I have had many friends ask me questions about the temple, about the happenings in there, about the holy garment, etc. I believe that the Lord wishes all of us to be happy, wants all of us to be able to make covenants, and that it is not a secret club of any sort, but so sacred that only those who prepare themselves can fully understand the blessings. But I know He is no respector of persons, and that we all have the chance to draw closer to Him in this way.
I was born and raised a Mormon, and as a young child, I went because I was told to, as we often do as children. Now, as an adult, with a long road of struggles and self discovery, I know with my whole heart that the gospel of Jesus Christ is on the earth today, in its entirety, and that it is what brings me the most happiness and joy in my life.
I hope this answers questions some may have, that it doesn't offend, and that you can appreciate the things I have shared.
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