Back to Basics

You may have once believed in God.

Since that time, a lot has changed in your family, work, friends, and interests. Now when you go to church, it may feel like just going through the motions. Or maybe, you no longer attend church. Are you a bad person, no. Distracted, yes. Ask yourself, are you truly happy right now? Do you feel something is missing, or empty? There has to be more to life than day-to-day repetition. God is inspiring you to look to Him for answers.

Do you have hope there is a loving Father in Heaven? This is faith; the first step on finding your testimony. Maybe you did not accidentally evolve from dust. Your intelligence could be more than flesh and blood. A small belief in your divine heritage is all it takes. With that spark of faith, ask your loving Father what you are missing. As you continue to pray, take time to reflect on your day and look for His hand in your life. Be still and speak plain heartfelt self-truth. He already helped you more than you realize.

When you pray to God, be grateful for the good you have. Then sincerely ask forgiveness for what weighs on your conscience. Talk about what you have learned and how you will do better. After pouring out your heart, ask for the help you require. Every righteous request, by the will of God, will be granted. When exactly, only God knows.

Before finishing your prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, spend a few moments listening quietly. If you forget what your request was, the pursuit was not worth your time. If you feel a warm feeling in your heart, the petition was heard and keep going down that path. Sometimes answers come quickly through prayer or a random interaction. If you felt nothing, be patient and keep moving forward with what feels right and watch how things unfold over time.

Awesome! You have gone back to basics with your simple belief in God through prayer. A solid foundation of goodness. When ready, add in other Gospel topics. Read your scriptures about Jesus Christ's Atonement, the greatest gift ever given. Obey God's commandments - guidelines for a more fulfilled life. Know yourself, you are a child of God, never forget it! Help others through service and become more like God. And when things get tough, find healing through Jesus Christ.

Keep building your relationship with your Father in Heaven every day through prayer. Be grateful and forgiving. Ask for forgiveness. Speak plainly. Then listen. As you prayerfully reflect and become aware of His Hand in your life, your joy and peace will increase. That is the feeling of pure redeeming love from your Father through Christ's Atonement. New opportunities will arise, bringing a higher sense of purpose. You are no longer just going through the motions of life. Embrace it. Share it.

You have found your lost testimony. This is your true self... to be happy again.

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

The principle part of faith is patience.