In “Stand as a Witness” Sister Susan W. Tanner speaks to the young women of the church. Sister Tanner opens her talk by sharing an experience her daughter had on her mission. She wanted tot each about the Holy Ghost, but when she planned the lesson, it did not feel right. Instead they taught about Jesus Christ, when the investigator felt the Holy Ghost witness about the truthfulness of their message, they were able to teach about the Holy Ghost.
Sister Tanner goes on to tell about King Benjamin and how he bore his testimony of Christ to his people. The spirit bore witness to each of them of the truthfulness of his words, and they all became converted to Christ. When they felt this witness, they covenanted to keep the commandments of God. One of the covenants we have each made is to stand as a witness of Christ to others.
Sister Tanner then tells about the times her children had to stand as a witness of God in the face of peer pressure. She shares a variety of situations that her children faced, that many of the youth will have to face today. She goes on to say that though they felt alone at times her children were upheld and strengthened by the hand of God. She points out that anyone who stands, as a witness will be strengthened in a similar way.
Sister Tanner then points out that you can stand as a witness in your family for the gospel. She shares the story of her mother who went to church even though her parents were inactive. She paved the way for them to come back to church, even though they didn’t make that choice until she had moved out of the home. Each young woman has this same opportunity. Sister Tanner also shares a wonderful story about two Laurels who helped to strengthen their leader and reach out to other girls. Sister Tanner closes by sharing her testimony of Christ.
This is a wonderful talk. It is important to continually stand as a witness and bear our testimonies, because this will strengthen them. Additionally we can do this in the quiet and simple ways that we choose to live our lives, as we do this we will be prepared to handle the big moments, when we must speak out for what is right and what is good.
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