As a prelude to this post, I (Ali) just wanted to add some information that may help those unfamiliar with the Mormon faith understand better Ryan's words. We believe the gift of God to bless (blessings for the sick and afflicted) and perform ordinances (baptism, gift of the Holy Ghost, and more) has been passed down through the prophets from Christ when He was on the earth and is available to worthy males today. As Moses laid his hands upon Joshua and gave a charge, so we use the laying on of hands for these things today. (See Numbers 27:18-23 and Hebrews 5:10) End prelude.
As I sat and thought about a specific story that helped me know the
truth, many different stories came to mind. Many of them are small
examples and some of them are major things that have happened in my
life.
Even as a kid I remember feeling good when I was learning about
Heavenly Father and Jesus. I enjoyed going to church groing up. There
have been many instances in my life when the Holy Ghost has prompted me
to do something and I have done it and seen a benefit from doing it. I
could probably write many different stories and go on forever about how I
know. I won't do that, but here is a small sample of my life
experiences and how I know.
Being a worthy holder of the Melchezidek Priesthood I
have had the opportunity to give many blessings to people that have
asked for my help. I remember one time I was participating in a blessing
that Benji and I were giving to another family member. Benji and I have
given many blessings together over the years, but this one was
particularly special. As Benji was acting as the voice of the blessing I
was standing with him with my hands on the head of the person whom was
receiving the blessing. I was being given the words to the blessing in
my mind and seconds later Benji said the exact words that were coming to
my mind. I could feel the spirit was with us and I knew that those
words were coming from our Heavenly Father. I also caught glimpses in my
mind's eye of Heavenly Father standing where Benji was and Jesus Christ
standing where I was. I am not saying that we are taking their place or
that we are more holy than anybody else. I am just giving an example of
a special experience that confirmed my knowledge of the gospel of Jesus
Christ.
Many many other things have happened in my life to help
me learn the truth. I think this is due, in part, to the fact that I do
not deny the inspirations that come to me from the Holy Ghost. I
embrace those special feelings and keep myself open to the fact that I
can be a tool in Heavenly Father's plan and help him in any way I can. I
am willing to share any other experiences that may help any of you who
read this. If you are struggling, pray for help. If you are like me and
trying to grow stronger everyday, stay on the path and be strong.
