I've never been very comfortable with bearing my testimony. I'm not sure why, other than that I seem to begin crying as soon as I start talking, and it's embarrassing to me. There are those who can stand up each and every testimony meeting and bear powerful witness of the truth of the gospel. I am not one of them.
I love these next six or so chapters of Alma. I've always thought that a complete parenting book could be written using them as reference. Alma had been among the people in every city to preach the gospel and was concerned with the contentions and hardness of heart among his people.
Therefore, he caused that his sons should be gathered together, that he might give unto them every one his charge, separately, concerning the things pertaining unto righteousness. And we have an account of his commandments, which he gave unto them according to his own record. (Alma 35:15)
I love that when Alma was worried about the things that were going on in the world, he felt that it was so important to speak to his boys. I also love that he talked to each of his children one on one. In my experience with my own kids, talking to them is much more effective when they know that your attention is completely focused on them.
He began with his oldest son, Helaman, and he started by bearing his testimony to him:
He began with his oldest son, Helaman, and he started by bearing his testimony to him:
And now, O my son Helaman, behold, thou art in thy youth, and therefore, I beseech of thee that thou wilt hear my words and learn of me; for I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day.(Alma 36:3)
I wonder sometimes if my kids are aware that I have a testimony. I think they know, but I don't know they know. Have I missed golden parenting opportunities because I have a hard time standing in front of a congregation? A few days ago, I read about the importance of praying everywhere - not just in church and not just for others to hear. Maybe I need to modify those scriptures a tiny bit to include my testimony. I need to bear witness to my kids wherever I can. It doesn't have to be in testimony meeting or even at church. It doesn't need to be a Sunday. It can be in the car, on the way to practice. It can be while I'm making dinner. It can be any time, any place. I just need to do it.
Or maybe they could read your blog. ;-) Your testimony shines through and strengthens mine.
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