Posted on Aug 09, 2024

Working Out Our Exaltation With Jade Koyle

Working Out Our Exaltation With Jade Koyle

This week on Why We Believe, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jade Koyle, a remarkable farmer and close friend from Eastern Idaho who's making significant strides in his industry. Jade shares his testament to the power of faith, hard work, and family unity through Christ. 

 

His path of faith is marked by personal trials, missionary experiences, and the miracles that come from working together as a family. His story provides valuable insights into overcoming addiction, the power of repentance, and finding strength through life's challenges. On the show, Jade opened up about how his experiences have shaped his understanding of God's love and the importance of choosing to turn towards God in all aspects of life. In this blog post, we'll explore Jade's journey and the lessons we can learn about finding faith in Christ one experience at a time.

Family and Scripture Study

Growing up on a farm in Idaho, Jade's faith journey began with the strong foundation laid by his parents. The Koyle family's dedication to daily scripture study, particularly focusing on the Book of Mormon, played a crucial role in shaping Jade's early beliefs. This consistent practice of coming together as a family to read and discuss the scriptures created a powerful spiritual atmosphere in their home.

 

Jade recalls how his parents would lead the family in reading the scriptures every morning, even before early morning seminary. This commitment to spiritual education alongside their homeschooling and farm work demonstrated the priority the Koyle family placed on their faith. The impact of this daily ritual was profound, as it allowed Jade to witness firsthand the application of gospel principles in daily life.

 

One particularly poignant memory Jade shared was of marking missionary verses in the scriptures with his family when he was 16. This experience not only prepared him for his future mission but also deepened his understanding of the scriptures and their relevance to his life. The combination of working together on the farm and studying the gospel together created a unique environment where faith and practical living were seamlessly integrated.

Finding God's Love in Difficult Times

At the age of 14 Jade lost his older sister in a car accident and that hard time helped him learn more about the importance of the fellowship of the people in his congregation. Valuable lessons about God's love and the importance of community support during times of grief.

 

In the aftermath of this loss, Jade found himself wanting to isolate from others due to the pain. However, it was through the simple acts of love from family and friends that he began to feel hope. Choosing to show our love for our fellow man, especially in hard times is a part of God’s commandment to love one another. When we act on that commandment it allows God to use us for good. These experiences during a time of deep sorrow helped shape Jade's understanding of God's love. God works through the kindness and support of others to bring comfort and healing.

Strengthening Faith through Service

Jade's mission to West Virginia not only took him out of his comfort zone but also challenged and strengthened his beliefs in different ways. Serving in three different states within his first three months as a missionary exposed Jade to diverse perspectives and challenges to his faith.

 

One of the most significant challenges Jade faced was encountering opposition to his beliefs, from those who questioned the Christian nature of his faith. Through this struggle Jade learned to rely more deeply on his personal testimony and the witness of the Holy Ghost. Satan wants nothing more than to keep you doubting your faith. As we choose to rely on what we know is true and the experiences we have had for ourselves, we can come to a stronger belief and understanding of our divine heritage as children of God and the witness of Christ we can receive as we ask God for truth.

 

By focusing on the peace he felt when reading the Book of Mormon with his family, Jade could combat the negative feelings brought on by others' criticisms. This allowed him to approach his missionary work with renewed confidence and love for those he served. Jade learned to share his message of God's love regardless of how it was received, knowing that he was doing God's work.

Working Together in Faith

Jade's journey of faith continued as he entered marriage and began building a life with his wife, Julie. In his marriage, Jade learned about the importance of open communication and working together towards common goals and including God in your marriage. 

 

Jade learned about the value of actively choosing to address issues in marriage rather than avoiding them. He came to understand that building a strong marriage requires continuous effort, open communication, and a willingness to grow together. Seeing marriage as a partnership in faith, where both individuals work together towards shared spiritual goals, is crucial in strengthening any relationship and family life.

Actions Will Always Speak Louder Than Words

 

Jade Koyle's story offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with Christ. From the foundations laid in childhood to the challenges of missionary work and marriage, Jade's experiences demonstrate that faith is built one experience at a time.

 

I encourage you to take a moment to consider how you can apply these lessons in your own life. Perhaps it's starting a daily scripture study habit, reaching out to someone in need, or having an open conversation with your spouse about your shared spiritual goals. Whatever step you choose to take, remember that like Jade, you too can find faith in Christ through the everyday experiences of life.

 

By actively choosing to seek God in all aspects of our lives, we can build a faith that withstands trials, strengthens relationships, and brings lasting peace and joy. 

 

 


Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blogs and episodes here.

Related Blog

Developing A Strong and Simple Foundation in Christ with Priscila Teodório da Silva
Developing A Strong and Simple Foundation in Christ with Priscila Teodório da Silva
  • by Julia Denner
  • Jun 07, 2024

Developing A Strong and Simple Foundation in Christ with Priscila Teodório da Silva In the latest episode of Why We Believe, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Priscila Teodório da Silva, a talented software developer from Brazil who shares her incredible story of faith and personal growth. Born and raised in a family of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Priscila's journey is one of resilience, perseverance, and a deep love for Jesus Christ and His gospel. Priscila shared with us details of her spiritual journey, from her early years attending church and seminary to her experiences serving a mission in Chile. Her story is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of Christ's Atonement in our lives. In this blog post, we talk about lessons and insights from Priscila's journey, exploring how small and simple acts of faith can help us develop a stronger relationship with our Savior and overcome life's challenges. Priscila's experiences can help us discover how we, too, can find strength and purpose through Christ. The Power of Personal Commitment Priscila's foundation in the gospel began with her parents taking her to church as a kid. As she entered her teenage years, family issues sometimes made it difficult for her to attend church with her family. Priscila took it upon herself to help get her family ready to go in the mornings and even attend church alone if need be. Her intrinsic motivation to attend church helped build and strengthen her faith. Even when faced with challenges this played a prominent role in developing her testimony. By taking responsibility for her own spiritual growth, has helped her find her center in Christ. Each spiritual journey is ultimately a personal one. While the support of family and friends is invaluable, it is our own commitment to Christ that will carry us through life's trials and help us grow closer to Him. Finding Strength in Adversity One of the most striking aspects of Priscila's story is how she found the most meaningful spiritual experiences during the most challenging times. Priscila discovered that these moments of adversity often lead to the greatest spiritual growth. Discipleship was not meant to be easy, but it is worth the struggle. As we face obstacles and challenges in our efforts to follow Christ, we have the opportunity to turn to Him for strength and guidance. We can build our spiritual muscles and in doing so, we not only overcome the immediate difficulty but also develop a deeper relationship with our Savior. There are always challenges that come with living the gospel. Being humble enough to ask God for help when we need it brings us closer to him. Letting God’s grace have a chance to work in our lives brings peace and strengthens our faith. The Transformative Power of Christ's Atonement Christ’s Atonement is God’s most important gift to His children. Because of Him, we are not lost to sin and death. We can progress in this life, and we can someday become perfected through His sacrifice. Anyone who chooses to turn to Christ and apply the Atonement in their lives can feel peace and healing that cannot be found or felt anywhere else. By learning about the Atonement and applying it in her life, Priscila found the strength to continue pursuing her goals and responsibilities, even in the face of mental health struggles such as OCD and anxiety. She sought help from trusted family members, friends, and professionals, while also relying on the healing power of Christ. A big part of the Atonement is change. And change is never “comfortable.” It shouldn’t have to be. Part of the transformative power of the Atonement comes from the opportunities we are given to make choices that help us come closer to Him. And without these numerous opportunities to make these decisions, we would only have so many chances to do that. Christ gives us every opportunity. The Impact of Small and Simple Acts of Faith Small but significant acts of faith have guided Prescila’s journey of faith. Throughout her life, she has experienced numerous moments where seemingly small decisions or actions have had a profound impact on her spiritual growth and the lives of others. You don’t need to move mountains to help someone come closer to Christ. Priscilla was able to share her testimony with friends at school, which led to some of them learning more about Christ. Her mission in Santiago, Chile helped her to develop a deeper relationship with Christ. Putting aside time to work on simple things like studying the scriptures, sincere prayer, and following the Holy Spirit made a difference in her own life. Choosing to share her testimony every Fast Sunday, even when it was difficult, and learning that her words could be exactly what someone needed to hear helped her understand how God could use her for His work. These experiences demonstrate that it is often the small, consistent choices we make that have the greatest impact on our spiritual journey. By being faithful in the little things, we open ourselves up to the blessing and guidance of the Holy Ghost, which can lead us to make a profound difference in the lives of others. Starting a Spiritual Foundation Priscila Teodório da Silva's story is a beautiful reminder of the power of faith and the transformative impact of Christ's Atonement. Through her experiences, we learn that personal commitment, perseverance in the face of adversity, reliance on Christ, and small acts of faith are all essential elements of a strong spiritual foundation. As we navigate our own spiritual journeys, consider how you can apply these lessons to your life. Let us strive to be more self-motivated in our church attendance, find strength in the challenges we face, turn to Christ's Atonement for healing and guidance, and recognize the significance of small and simple things through acts of faith. By doing so, we can develop a deeper, more meaningful relationship with our Savior and find the purpose, hope, and joy that comes from living His gospel. Take a moment today to look for God's hand in your life, and trust that He is guiding you through the small and simple things that will lead you back to Him. Key Takeaways: 1. Priscila Teodório da Silva, a software developer from Brazil, shares her inspiring story of developing faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel from a young age. 2. Despite facing challenges such as family issues and living far from church, Priscila remained committed to attending church and seminary, even if it meant going alone. 3. Priscila found that the most meaningful spiritual experiences often occurred during the most difficult times, such as when it was raining and hard to get to church. 4. Discipleship is not easy because the Atonement of Jesus Christ was not easy for him, and as members of the Church, we must uphold the truth and face our own challenges. 5. After returning from her mission, Priscila faced challenges such as the pandemic and dealing with anxiety and OCD, but she turned to God and trusted in Christ's Atonement to overcome these difficulties. 6. Small yet significant experiences, such as feeling the Holy Spirit in the temple or during baptisms, helped build Priscila's testimony over time. 7. Serving a mission in Chile helped Priscila understand that developing a deeper relationship with Christ is based on simple things like studying scriptures, sincere prayer, and following the Holy Spirit. 8. The restored gospel of Jesus Christ has positively influenced every aspect of Priscila's life, from making better choices to meeting positive influences and discovering her passion for programming and computer science. Thanks for joining us for this episode of Why We Believe! We wish you the best as you look for the small and simple ways God has been guiding your life. If you would like to learn more about this podcast or see past episodes, head to WhyWeBelieve.com to find more!

Read more
The Art of Faith: Del Parson's Journey from Delinquent to Renowned Religious Artist
The Art of Faith: Del Parson's Journey from Delinquent to Renowned Religious Artist
  • by Julia Denner
  • Oct 11, 2024

The Art of Faith: Del Parson's Journey from Delinquent to Renowned Religious Artist In the realm of religious art, few names resonate as deeply as Del Parson. Known for his iconic depictions of Jesus Christ, including the famous "red robe" painting, Parson has touched millions of lives through his masterful brushstrokes and profound spiritual insights. But the journey that led him to become one of the most influential Latter-day Saint artists of our time is as compelling as the artwork itself. In this week's episode of Why We Believe, we explore Del Parson's extraordinary life and career. From his humble beginnings as a self-described "juvenile delinquent" to his transformation into a beacon of faith and artistic excellence, Parson's story is one of resilience, divine inspiration, and the power of visual storytelling to fortify beliefs and touch hearts. Join us as we explore the intersection of art and faith, gaining exclusive insights into the creation of Parson's most famous works and the profound spiritual experiences that shaped both his life and his art. This powerful conversation offers a rare glimpse into what it truly takes to create art that resonates with millions of souls, demonstrating the transformative power of combining artistic talent with unwavering faith. The Roots of Artistic Inspiration: From Delinquent to Disciple Del Parson's journey into the world of religious art began in an unlikely place. Growing up in a large family of nine children, with a father who was an art professor at Brigham Young University-Idaho (then known as Ricks College), Parson was surrounded by creativity from an early age. However, he admits that he was far from the perfect Latter-day Saint boy, describing himself as a "juvenile delinquent" during his teenage years. It wasn't until his twenties that Parson experienced a pivotal moment that would set him on the path to becoming the renowned artist we know today. While working a job building fences in Southwest Idaho, he found himself with nothing to read but a Bible and a Reader's Digest. Over the course of that summer, Parson read the Bible from cover to cover, an experience that sparked a desire to truly give the church a try and turn his life around. This decision led him to apply to Brigham Young University, where he continued to develop his artistic skills. However, it was a chance encounter at a dance that would truly change the course of his life. Meeting a beautiful, spiritually grounded woman who would later become his wife, Parson was inspired to live up to higher standards and deepen his faith. This pivotal relationship, combined with a powerful patriarchal blessing that foretold his future as an artist, set Parson on the path to becoming one of the most influential religious artists of our time. Tragedy and Transformation: The Spiritual Crucible of Del Parson's Art While Parson's artistic journey was undoubtedly influenced by his early experiences and education, it was a series of profound personal tragedies that truly shaped his approach to religious art. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Parson lost both his wife and young daughter in a car accident. This devastating loss became a crucible for his faith and his art, leading to some of the most powerful spiritual experiences of his life. In the aftermath of this tragedy, Parson experienced what he describes as a visit from the Holy Ghost, feeling an overwhelming sense of love and comfort that he had never known before. This experience became a touchstone for his art, with Parson striving to capture and convey that same sense of divine love in his paintings. He shares that this moment of profound spiritual connection is what he aims to recreate in every brushstroke, though he admits it doesn't always come easily. These personal trials also led to remarkable spiritual manifestations that further solidified Parson's faith and influenced his art. He recounts powerful dreams and visitations from his late wife, bringing messages of comfort and doctrinal truths that align perfectly with church teachings. These experiences not only strengthened Parson's testimony but also deepened his commitment to creating art that could touch souls and strengthen the faith of others. The Creation of Iconic Images: Behind the Scenes of Parson's Most Famous Works Perhaps no painting has had a greater impact on Latter-day Saint visual culture than Parson's famous "red robe" depiction of Jesus Christ. The story behind this iconic image offers fascinating insights into the process of creating religious art that resonates with millions. Commissioned by the church to paint a "Mormon image of the Savior," Parson faced the daunting task of creating a more masculine, accessible representation of Christ. The process was far from smooth, involving multiple sketches, divine inspiration, and even a vivid dream foretelling challenges with the church's approval process. Parson's humility and dedication shine through as he recounts working tirelessly on the painting for nine days, only to feel he had failed completely. It was his wife's insistence on sending the painting to the church anyway that led to its eventual approval and widespread adoption. Another of Parson's most beloved works, "Perfect Love," depicting Christ with children, holds a special place in the artist's heart. Parson feels this painting comes closest to capturing the overwhelming sense of divine love he experienced during his moments of deepest trial. This commitment to conveying not just the physical likeness but the spiritual essence of Christ is what sets Parson's work apart and allows it to touch so many lives. The Impact of Visual Storytelling: Art as a Tool for Strengthening Faith Throughout the conversation, Parson reflects on the power of visual art to strengthen faith and convey spiritual truths. He shares how his paintings have been used in missionary work, church publications, and personal devotion, becoming a visual language through which people connect with their faith. Parson's approach to religious art goes beyond mere representation. He strives to capture the intangible qualities of love, divinity, and spiritual power in his work. This is evident in his recounting of a dream where he met the Savior, noting that it wasn't the physical appearance that mattered but the spirit and essence of Christ that left the lasting impression. The impact of Parson's work extends far beyond the Latter-day Saint community. He shares a touching anecdote about a nun requesting to use his "Perfect Love" painting in a book about Christian philosophies, demonstrating the universal appeal and spiritual power of his art. This broad reach underscores the potential of visual storytelling to bridge denominational divides and touch hearts across diverse faith traditions. Key Elements of Creating Soul-Touching Religious Art: Personal spiritual experiences: Draw inspiration from profound moments of divine connection. Unwavering faith: Maintain a strong testimony to infuse authenticity into the artwork. Technical skill: Develop and refine artistic abilities to effectively convey spiritual concepts. Humility: Remain open to guidance and feedback throughout the creative process. Persistence: Push through challenges and setbacks to achieve the desired spiritual impact. Focus on essence over appearance: Strive to capture the spirit and feeling of religious subjects. Universal themes: Create art that resonates across denominational lines. Prayer and inspiration: Seek divine guidance throughout the artistic process. The Continuing Legacy of Del Parson's Artistic Ministry Del Parson's journey from a self-described juvenile delinquent to one of the most influential religious artists of our time is a testament to the transformative power of faith and artistic expression. His story reminds us that creating art that touches millions of souls requires more than just technical skill – it demands a deep well of personal spiritual experiences, unwavering faith, and a commitment to conveying the intangible qualities of divine love and spiritual truth. As we reflect on Parson's incredible journey and the impact of his work, we are called to consider how we might use our own talents and experiences to strengthen faith and touch lives. Whether through art, music, writing, or any other form of expression, we all have the potential to create something that resonates with others on a spiritual level. Let us take inspiration from Del Parson's example and seek to infuse our own creative endeavors with the same depth of spiritual meaning and authenticity. By doing so, we can contribute to a rich tapestry of faith-affirming expressions that have the power to uplift, inspire, and strengthen souls across the world. As we conclude, consider how you might use your own unique gifts to create something that touches the hearts of others. Whether it's through visual art, music, writing, or simply living a life of faith and kindness, remember that each of us has the potential to make a profound impact on those around us. Let Del Parson's journey inspire you to explore the intersection of your talents and your faith and see where that path might lead you. Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blog posts and episodes here.

Read more
Beacons of Light Throughout a Bobsledding Career
Beacons of Light Throughout a Bobsledding Career
  • by Julia Denner
  • Aug 16, 2024

In this week's inspiring episode of Why We Believe, I had the privilege of speaking with Jeremy Holm, an author, youth speaker, and former Olympic bobsledder. Jeremy's unique experiences, from racing dragsters to serving a mission in Honduras and Belize, have shaped his profound faith and understanding of God's love for His children. In this blog post, we'll explore Jeremy's experiences and the valuable lessons he's learned about recognizing God's presence in our lives, overcoming doubt, and finding strength in the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Recognizing God's Light in Everyday Moments Jeremy's small, everyday experiences helped him recognize God's presence in his life. There is a sense of an almost divine fulfillment that comes when we strive to make the most of our God-given talents and abilities. Unexpected spiritual experiences solidified Jeremy’s testimony of Joseph Smith and the restored gospel. They remind us that God's light can shine through in the most ordinary of moments if we're open to recognizing it. Jeremy's experiences on the bobsled track have become unexpected sources of spiritual growth. He often found himself kneeling on the cold Olympic ice before a race, not praying for victory but for guidance and safety. Taking time to focus on God in the midst of our experiences brings us closer to Him and can show God we choose to put him first. Overcoming Doubt and Anxiety in Faith Even though Jeremy has had strong spiritual experiences, he isn’t immune to struggles with doubt and anxiety. We are all human; the earth has fallen, and it was never meant to be easy. Understanding that the gospel teaches the principle of perseverance will really help us understand why we choose to be patient and long-suffering. Jeremy's struggles with anxiety have happened throughout his life. Eventually, becoming what he describes as his "thorn in the flesh." However, he learned to view this challenge not as a failure of faith but as an opportunity for growth and reliance on the Savior. He emphasizes that it's okay to struggle and that these challenges are part of our mortal experience. Jeremy’s bishop once said, "You're not failing, you're human." This helps us realize that God loves us for our efforts, not our perfection and that even in our struggles, we are still valued children of God. A Lifeline in Times of Struggle After experiencing a bobsled crash, Jeremy was racked with guilt, blaming himself for what happened. As his father helped him repair the bobsled, Jeremy realized that our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are there to help us repair the damage in our lives. The Atonement isn't just about forgiveness but about restoration and getting us "back out there" on the track of life. This experience deepened Jeremy's understanding of the Savior's role in our lives. He learned that Christ is always there, ready to help us when we feel overwhelmed, when we've made mistakes, or when we simply need support. It's a powerful reminder that no matter how badly we may have crashed, there's always a loving hand reaching out to lift us up. Faith is Not a Slippery Slope Jeremy Holm's story and experiences remind us that God's light can be found in the most unexpected places - whether it's on a bobsled track, in a quiet bedroom, or in the midst of our deepest struggles. As we reflect on Jeremy's story, we're invited to consider our own spiritual journeys. By incorporating God’s principles into our lives, we can, like Jeremy, find God's light guiding us through both the triumphs and challenges of our mortal journey. God is aware of you individually. He's cheering you on, proud of your accomplishments, and ready to embrace you with His love at every stage of your life. Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of Why We Believe. If you are interested in more like this, you can check out our other blogs and episodes here.

Read more
Never Let a Faith Crisis Go to Waste
Never Let a Faith Crisis Go to Waste
  • by Julia Denner
  • Jun 07, 2024

In this week’s episode of Why We Believe, Stuart Draper, a successful entrepreneur and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared his inspiring story of faith and conversion. From a young age, Stuart's parents and church leaders played a significant role in helping him develop a strong testimony of the gospel. Despite the challenges he has faced throughout his life, including his daughter's ongoing health issues and his brother's temporary inactivity from the church, Stuart's faith has remained unshakable. In the episode, Stuart mentions a thought-provoking idea shared by Jared Halverson on the Unshaken Saints podcast: "Never let a good faith crisis go to waste." This concept encourages individuals to view their faith crises as opportunities for growth and deeper understanding rather than as obstacles that threaten to destroy their beliefs. By embracing this mindset, we can navigate through our doubts and emerge with a stronger, more resilient faith. The Power of Scripture Study and Prayer One key factor that has helped Stu maintain his testimony is his dedication to daily scripture study and prayer. He credits his deacon's quorum leader, Scott Sauners, with instilling in him the importance of this habit at a young age. By consistently engaging with the scriptures and communicating with God, Stu has found answers to his questions and strengthened his faith. Stu's experience highlights the transformative power of regular scripture study and prayer. When we prioritize these practices in our lives, we open ourselves up to receiving personal revelation and guidance from the Holy Ghost. During times of doubt or uncertainty, turning to the scriptures and prayer can provide the comfort, clarity, and direction we need to press forward in faith. The Influence of Family and Church Leaders Throughout my interview with him, Stu emphasized the crucial role that his parents and various church leaders played in his spiritual development. From his parents' unwavering example of faithfulness to the countless Sunday School teachers, seminary instructors, and home teachers who invested in his spiritual growth, Stu recognizes these individuals' impact on his testimony. This serves as a reminder of the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who can support and encourage us in our faith journey. When facing a faith crisis, isolating ourselves or seeking out those who share our doubts can be tempting. However, by staying connected to family members, friends, and church leaders who are strong in the gospel, we can find the strength and guidance we need to navigate our challenges and come out stronger on the other side. Eternal Families and the Plan of Salvation Another central theme in Stu's story is his testimony of eternal families and the Plan of Salvation. Having witnessed the challenges faced by his niece with severe disabilities and the tragic loss of his young nephew to cancer, Stu finds comfort in the knowledge that families can be together forever through the sealing power of the temple. When confronted with a faith crisis, losing sight of the bigger picture and the eternal truths that anchor our beliefs can be easy. We can find hope and perspective amidst our struggles by holding fast to our testimony of the Plan of Salvation and the promise of eternal families. Remembering that this life is just a small part of our eternal journey can help us approach our doubts and questions with patience, humility, and trust in God's divine plan. Navigating Faith a Faith Crisis Stuart Draper's story is a powerful reminder that faith crises while challenging, can ultimately lead to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. By following his example of consistent scripture study, prayer, and reliance on the support of family and church leaders, we can face our doubts head-on and emerge with a stronger, more resilient testimony. As you navigate your own faith journey, always remember to: Hold fast to the truths you already know Seek answers through daily scripture study and prayer Surround yourself with people who can support and encourage you in the gospel Keep an eternal perspective and trust in God's plan for you and your family By embracing the idea of never letting a faith crisis go to waste, you can view your challenges as opportunities for growth and allow them to refine and strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. Key Takeaways 1. Stuart Draper's faith journey began with the examples set by his faithful parents and ancestors, who paved the way for him to develop a strong testimony at a young age. 2. Stu's personal conversion came through powerful spiritual experiences, such as feeling the Spirit during testimony meetings and learning to repent and seek forgiveness. 3. Consistent scripture study, a habit Stu developed at age 12, has been instrumental in his spiritual growth and helped him make better choices throughout his life. 4. Serving a mission in Argentina provided Stu with numerous experiences where he felt he was exactly where God wanted him to be, doing what God wanted him to do. 5. Stu's faith has carried him through difficult trials, such as his daughter's ongoing health struggles and watching his brother briefly step away from the Church. 6. A vivid dream and a powerful spiritual impression led Stu to recognize his wife, Lindsay, as his eternal companion shortly after they first met. 7. Stu's testimony of eternal families has been strengthened by the challenges faced by his niece with severe disabilities and the passing of his young nephew. 8. When struggling with faith, Stu advises holding fast to the principles and truths one already knows, recognizing that faith is a work in progress and that doubts can lead to spiritual growth. 9. The intricacies of the Earth, human body, and universe are evidence to Stu of a divine creator and a master plan for all of God's children. 10. Living the teachings of Jesus Christ and striving to be more like Him has brought true happiness and blessings to Stu's life and family. Thank you for joining us for this episode. I pray Stu’s message of never letting a faith crisis go to waste that will strengthen your testimony to do the same. If you would like to learn more about the Why We Believe show, please visit WhyWeBelieve.com.

Read more

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive new episodes sent straight to your inbox.

Comments

Share your story