In April 1990, Howard W. Hunter taught about commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. We’ve all known members of Jesus Christ’s church who leave for one reason or another to go out into the world. For some reason they are willing to give up.  How do we keep our testimonies, stay committed, and stand as witnesses?

Testimonies

Testimonies are born when we recognize God’s miracles in our lives. When we know God exists, that He lives, loves us, and watches over us, we testify of Him. Have you called upon the Lord and heard Him, felt Him, or received an answer you were seeking? Have you witnessed the spirit of the Holy Ghost? Have you even faithfully accepted an answer of wait … be patient … trust God, and felt an increase of love while doing so? Anyone experiencing any of these can testify of a loving Heavenly Father and our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

Commitment

I believe the world stopped teaching commitment a long time ago. Few feel the need to acknowledge their own accountability and too many people are more interested in moving on to what they see as greener pastures. Yet there is no greater reward than seeing something to the end, especially something of value and purpose. Who doesn’t like to succeed over a difficult test? What greater joy is there to feel love within a family? There is absolute satisfaction in believing in God, regularly feeling His spirit, and living by our faith.

Witness

Steven J. Lund just told us in General Conference about his son who passed away from cancer. Even when this boy had barely enough strength to stand, he wanted to follow through with his commitment to pass the sacrament. His reasoning was, “I see how people look at me when I pass the sacrament. I think it helps them.” That simple thought was represented by his commitment and his desire to share his testimony. From that moment on, he stands tall as a witness of Jesus Christ.

The world doesn’t teach us how to have testimonies, or stay committed, or how to stand as a witness. But when we really believe in our Father in Heaven and our Savior, Jesus Christ, our souls can’t contain these attributes that burst from inside us.