We learn in chapter 32 that faith is not a perfect knowledge of things. However in verse 33-35 it talks about how when you plant that seed of faith, and you FEEL its goodness, is that not a perfect knowledge IN THAT MOMENT? After receiving a blessing, is that warmth not enough to be perfect knowledge? When you receive an answer to a prayer, is that not perfect knowledge in that thing?
34 And now, behold, is your knowledge perfect? Yea, your knowledge is perfect in that thing, and your faith is dormant; and this because you know, for ye know that the word hath swelled your souls, and ye also know that it hath sprouted up, that your understanding doth begin to be enlightened, and your mind doth begin to expand.
Alma 32:34
Our faith will not and cannot be perfect in all things at all times due to the veil, but it can be perfect in ONE THING at ONE MOMENT. Faith can be a perfect knowledge of things.
When we have little faith in something, if we keep focusing on the doubts, OF COURSE it will die. Our plant will die. However, the seed is always there. We can't take back something/a feeling/a moment/a memory when we FELT that goodness, that TRUTH!
There are plenty of times where I've had serious question and wonder and honestly, all it takes is a reflection back to when I first felt that seed planted. I have almost file folders of "first times". The first time I knew Heavenly Father loved me. The first time I knew the gospel was true. The first time I gained a testimony of Joseph Smith. During rough times, I can bring those "files" out to lean on and remember. Remember HOW I Felt and WHY I felt that way.
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If we just continually nourish it and seek to rekindle that feeling we once felt, I PROMISE, it will come back and grow again. Just as there are seasons in nature, there are seasons of spirituality. We are never always going to be in full bloom, but through light, exposure, nourishment, and feasting on the gospel, we will sprout that seed.
So, if you're doubting something, ask Heavenly Father to assist you in finding ways to bring that perfect knowledge back. That's the key, we can ask, but WE must DO.
If you're doubting Priesthood, ask for a blessing!
If you're doubting tithing, pay it!
If you're doubting the temple, perform baptisms or attend a session!
If you're doubting the prophet, listen to a talk!
If you're doubting Joseph Smith, study D&C!
If you're doubting prayer, PRAY!
If you're doubting the Book of Mormon, read more and study longer. Ask questions!
If you're doubting the purpose of your calling, serve more, do MORE!
36 Behold I say unto you, Nay; neither must ye lay aside your faith, for ye have only exercised your faith to plant the seed that ye might try the experiment to know if the seed was good.
Alma 32:36
Even if we don't fully understand the 'Why's" and "How's", we will feel that light. And we learn that "Whatsoever is light, is good."
We are promised that by continually nourishing our seed of faith, we WILL reap the rewards:
43 Then, my brethren, ye shall reap the rewards of your faith, and your diligence, and patience, and long-suffering, waiting for the tree to bring forth fruit unto you.
Alma 32:43
Referencing "fruit" it tells us it represents everlasting life. And the promise doesn't end there, "And then may God grant unto you that your burdens may be light, through the joy of his Son."
Through planting a seed of faith, exercising the faith, nourishing that seed and enduring with patience, we may receive the ultimate gift and it is all through the joy of Christ.
Christ is joy. The gospel is joy. Everlasting life is joy. Faith is joy.
I love the scriptures and have a testimony of these truths. Amen.
