Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Signs of His Love-Alicia Collette

“And he that seeketh signs shall see signs, but not unto salvation”. (1) Signs are events or experiences that demonstrate the power of God. They are often miraculous. They identify and announce great events, such as the Savior’s birth, death, and Second Coming. They remind us of covenants the Lord has made with us. Signs may also bear witness of a divine calling or indicate the Lord’s disapproval. Some people claim that they would believe in God or His work if they were able to receive a sign. But the Lord has said, “Faith cometh not by signs, but signs follow those that believe” (2). Such signs are given to those who are faithful and obedient in order to strengthen them in their faith. (3) Most importantly, we are given signs to show us Christ’s love towards each and every one of us. Signs of his love include his mercy, patience, latter-day prophets, revelation, scriptures, and atonement, along with many others. The greatest example of God's love for His children is found in the infinite Atonement of Jesus Christ. Through personal revelation we can also come to know of the love that is given to each of us from our brother, Christ. Heavenly father and Jesus Christ love us all individually. They also love us more than we can ever comprehend while here on earth.

Not more than a month ago, last fast Sunday actually, I had the most remarkable spiritual experience. I had just gotten home from the most amazing church block which included a testimony meeting where everyone seemed to be talking about Christ and testifying of his love and a Sunday school class all about third Nephi and Christ’s visit to the Americas. All throughout the block I kept hearing people testify of how Heavenly Father and Christ know and love us all individually and differently. This caused me to reflect on whether or not this was true for me as well and if so, how I know of their love. As I was pondering, I came to the conclusion that what I had been hearing all day was indeed the truth. I had no problem knowing this to be truth in my head but I needed to feel it I my heart as well. I then felt so inclined to pray and plead to know in my heart that the Lord watches over me personally. Upon finishing my humble prayer, I had the strongest urge to read the scriptures, particularly the book of Mormon. I began reading, picking up where I had left of the night before. I read for some time until I came across a scripture in Mosiah that caused me to break down in tears. It was Mosiah chapter three verse four which reads “For the Lord hath heard thy prayers, and hath judged of thy righteousness, and hath sent me to declare unto thee that thou mayest rejoice; and that thou mayest declare unto thy people, that they may also be filled with joy”. I couldn’t believe it; it was the most incredible spiritual experience. There was my answer, written in a scripture that I have read many times before and had even marked once upon a time. I know in my heart that I have a father in heaven who loves me for me and an elder brother that sacrificed everything for my salvation and that they are watching over m, trying to help me with each trial I face.

Later that day I came to another conclusion that strengthened my testimony all the more. Had I received an answer through a voice in my head I would have believed that I was merely looking for an answer so intently that I simply “thought” I heard something from above and wouldn’t believe it was a true answer from God. However, with a scripture, my answer came indirectly towards me, customized to fit my personal needs. I testify that God knows of our desires and will help us in any way He can if we turn to him and look for the signs of his love in our lives each day.

1. D&C

2. Doctrine and Covenants 63:9

3. True to the Faith


10 comments:

Amanda S. said...

Alicia, good personal experience. I like the way you weave it into the rest of your blog. You do need more paragraphs and support from the scriptures.

Lindsay Kendrick said...

I loved how your experience continues throughout the whole blog and not just in one paragraph-it keeps the reader just that much more interested.

Lucy Lybbert said...

Alicia,
I really liked your weave work through out the blog. I really liked how your defined on each level what signs are and why and how we look for them.

Sheridan Murray said...

I love it when the Lord puts scriptures in our path. It always catches me and helps me to remember that He really loves us and will help us if we let him.

Anonymous said...

Alicia, your testimony really shines through in your writing. I love the use of your personal experience, and the list of the signs of love. Sometimes we forget all the ways the Lord shows his love for us. Good work.

Amy Mann said...

I liked your personal experience and the way you talked about how God's sign of His love for us is the ultimate Atonement of His Only Begotten. Adding some more scriptures could have enhanced it a bit. Thank you.

Malallory said...

I loved your personal testimony and experience, and how you reminded us that signs of Christ can be seen every day. Good job!

Ashlee Johnson said...

Wow what an amazing experience you had! I loved your testimony, thank you for sharing!

KK said...

I loved your blog! It was powerful and kept me wanting to read more. I really liked how you shared your personal experience with the scriptures and how it reminds us to turn to them often and our own prayers can be answered through them. Your blog is filled with pure testimony, great job!

Michelle said...

I particularly enjoyed your personal touch to the entire blog. That's a good technique.