These Things I Know

by Andilyn Jenkins

My message will be short today, partly because my brain has been drained of all its natural resources. But mostly because I have about six different op-ed pieces I’ve started writing and/or brainstorming and not enough time and direction to finish them off. But they all stem from this core. And it is the core I want to emphasize today.

This core supports my life. This core begins my mornings and finishes my thoughts. This core shapes how I read, think, watch, listen, converse, teach, question, and work. My core is a fundamental part of who I am.

I know Jesus Christ. Though I have never seen Him, I know He lives and is my Savior. I know that He atoned for my sins, and by His grace, I can be redeemed from the fall of Adam and from my own mistakes. He hears me and answers my fervent and constant prayers through manifestations from the Holy Ghost, the bearer of truth, who is my constant and most loving companion.

I also know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints founded this testimony in me. Because of my parents’ diligence, my leaders’ examples, and my own personal experimentation on the Church’s doctrine, I testify Christ’s church has been restored to the earth today through modern prophets who work tirelessly to represent Christ’s will to the world at large. I know that when I obey those teachings, which are Christ’s will, I physically feel stronger, more capable, and happier.

This unyielding testimony makes up my core and allows me to bring tough questions (both spiritual and secular) to the Lord, recognizing that He doesn’t always answer them quickly or clearly, but answer them He will. And whether those answers come today, in twenty years, or in the next life, the timing has no effect on these things I know.

May my testimony be a slice of truth for you, and may you listen to the subtle whispering of the Holy Ghost is my prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.