Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is the first principle of the gospel. This foundational principle is at the center of our testimonies and our discipleship.

Alma taught in Alma 32, “He desireth, in the first place, that ye should believe, yea, even on his word.” He teaches that as we give place for the seed of faith to grow—and if we “cast it not out by our unbelief”—that seed can begin to take root and grow within us.

That invitation can lead each of us to honest reflection. What might we be doing that resists the Spirit of the Lord and limits the growth of our faith? Are there times when we cast out the seed of faith by hesitating to yield to the Holy Ghost? Do we resist promptings, remain in our comfort zone in the gospel, or hold back when the Lord asks us to do something that requires greater faith?  Do we magnify callings and ministering assignments?

Alma described what happens as faith begins to grow: “It beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me… would not this increase your faith?”

As we follow promptings from the Spirit and act on the things God asks of us—even when they feel uncomfortable or stretch us beyond what feels easy—our faith increases. We begin to feel what Alma described: our understanding is enlightened, our souls are enlarged, and the gospel becomes sweeter and more meaningful to us.

Alma continues: “As the seed swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow… will not this strengthen your faith? Yea, it will strengthen your faith.”

This divine cycle continues as we show the Lord that we are willing to yield our hearts to Him and consecrate our lives to Him. As we demonstrate faith by making and keeping covenants, acting on spiritual promptings, and aligning our will with His, our faith grows stronger. Over time, that faith becomes a powerful spiritual force that anchors us to Christ and opens our hearts to greater light and understanding.  Think of the examples of Nephi and the Brother of Jared.  Each of these prophets consistently, time and again, demonstrated their faith and rich blessings followed.

Faith is so much more than simply believing in God and in Jesus Christ. Faith becomes our compass. It guides our choices and helps us demonstrate to our Heavenly Father that we love Him, trust Him, and are willing to follow Him and consecrate our lives to Him.

As we continue to exercise faith in Jesus Christ, the Lord will strengthen us, deepen our understanding, and bless our homes and families. Nephi taught in 1 Nephi 1:20 that “the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith”. I testify that as we trust Him, follow Him, and act in faith, He will lead us, sustain us, and fill our lives with His peace and power. 

Gary Hood

Ward Clerk