He Spoke I Went

I have been serving in Pretoria South Africa for almost two months, and lately I have been reflecting on what it truly means to be converted to the Lord and not just to have a testimony of Him.

Elder David A. Bednar taught: “Knowing that the gospel is true is the essence of a testimony. Consistently being true to the gospel is the essence of conversion.”

That distinction is powerful. Obtaining a testimony is the beginning. It is knowing that Jesus is the Christ, that Heavenly Father lives and loves us, and that His gospel has been restored. But conversion is something deeper. It is a change of heart, a change of desires, and a willingness to live true to that testimony no matter the circumstances.

Elder Bednar also taught that “testimony is a point of departure; it is not an ultimate destination.” In other words, knowing the truth is not enough unless we allow it to transform who we are.

The Savior illustrated this principle in Matthew 25:1-13 in which he presents the parable of the ten virgins. Five were wise because they prepared oil in their lamps. They didn’t just know the Bridegroom was coming, they acted on that knowledge, continually adding to their oil supply, staying ready, steadfast, and faithful. In much the same way, lasting conversion is about consistently filling our lamps with faith, repentance, and righteous living.

In Helaman 15:7-8, Samuel the Lamanite outlines five essential elements of conversion: Believing in the teachings of the prophets. Exercising faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Repenting. Experiencing a mighty change of heart. Becoming firm and steadfast in the faith.

This is the pattern I strive to follow during my mission. I do not want to simply be on a mission; I want to be serving a mission—helping others gain not just a testimony, but a lasting conversion to Jesus Christ, the true source of peace, joy and happiness.

Elder Bednar also reminded us that conversion doesn’t happen all at once. It is “an ongoing process in which we learn line upon line and precept upon precept.” That gives me hope. Each act of obedience, each moment of service, each prayer, and each testimony shared brings me closer to the Savior and helps me become more like the wise virgins—steadfast, prepared, and fully devoted to Him.

As I serve, my prayer is that my own lamp will be filled with the oil of conversion so I can help others fill their lamps as well. Because in the end, peace, joy and happiness are not found in merely knowing about Christ, but in truly coming unto Him.