"When have you had to have courage in your discipleship?" "What is an embarrassing moment from your church experience?" "Why do YOU stay in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints?"
Real Disciples, Real Faith
The Why I Stay Podcast is a faith-based podcast where host Lynzi Clyde explores why members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints choose to stay in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.
This conversation really made me want to be kind to everyone. I want to be someone people can lean on as they draw closer to Christ. Beautiful testimony, I love hearing what Christ means to people ❤
Hi I was just randomly listening to stories on LDS while working on my house, then I saw this huge happy face on my television screen. I have just subscribed😇
I was born prematurely with my twin brother. My twin contracted meningitis one of the many times we were in the hospital and graduated from this life one day short of one month old. I was the small of the two of us and born with a visual impairment. My parents taught my siblings and me about the plan and how those who die in infancy are those who were to pure, special to stay on this earth, and all they needed is to be born to recieve their body. This experience and teaching would become very valuable years latter when mt second child was 21 months old. My son graduated from mortality in the middle of the night from a undiagnosed birth defect. When I was told of his passing and returning home from work and the day. Weeks and years since I have reliied on the strength and comfort the Atonement of Jesus Christ which makes the saving of these little ones in the celestial kingdom possible gives me. I love the talk give the month before my son's passing through the veil in the oct 2012 general conference by Elder Shane Bowen.
Thank you so much for sharing that with us, your story and your testimony. I am so sorry for the loss of your brother and your son. Your strength gives me hope. Thank you for sharing.❤
Congratulations on 100 episodes, Lynzi! 🎉 I stay because, like you said, it's about choosing to believe, persisting through the hard times, and remembering that Christ's love can redeem anything. As President Russell M. Nelson taught, 'Faith in Jesus Christ is the greatest power available to us in this life. All things are possible to them that believe.' When we place our trust in His love, fear disappears, and we can move forward with unwavering faith. Thank you for sharing this journey with us!
I love the principle that 'belief is a choice'. As my boy Brandon Sanderson said in Hero of Ages: "To believe, it seemed, one had to want to believe. It was a conundrum, one <this character> wrestled with. He wanted someone, something, to force him to have faith. He wanted to have to believe because of the proof shown to him. Yet, the believers whose words now filled his mind would have said he already had proof. ... Was it chance? Was it providence? In the end, apparently, it was up to him to decide. ... I do want to believe, he thought. That's why I've spent so much time searching. I can't have it both ways. I simply have to decide. ... Some important decisions were made on a battlefield or in a conference room. But others happened quietly, unseen by others. That didn't make the decision any less important. <This character> would believe. Not because something had been proven to him beyond his ability to deny. But because he chose to." Anyway, it's one of the most beautiful and compelling character arcs I have ever read in fiction.
I listened to this episode three times. What a wonderful example of leaning on what you know as you live out what you’re not sure of yet. I love every bit of her story, but I especially loved her faith in wearing the temple garment and how that became part of her testimony. It honestly never occurred to me that that was something we could have a testimony of or that it could be part of our testimony, but it is a big thing, isn’t it? I think I need to study it more, I feel like there’s probably a lot there that I’m not fully understanding yet
Shared it. I loved hearing your testimony, thank you for everything you’re doing. This light in the world that comes from the Savior brings the peace that He promised us. You’re bearing that light. Isn’t it wonderful what he lets us take part in?
Very helpful episode, thank you. Your personal testimony at the end has strenghtened my own beliefs in the Gospel and The Church of Jesus Christ. Your testimony reminds me of President Holland's statement in this past April, 2024 General Conference: "I bear solemn witness of the reality of eternal life and the need for us to be serious in our planning for it."
Thank you for listening and commenting, I really appreciate it. I agree; President Holland's testimonies have taken on a new tone since his experience in the hospital. I have been strengthened by his serious witness and urgency. I feel it, too. Thanks again for being here in this space with us! Happy 100!
My wife has a friend who was Catholic who joined in her twenties because my wife was an awesome example. Well this new saint married an airman and each place she was tested over and over. She even went through a divorce and in her lowest point turned back to drinking.... Then that wonderful friend that introduced her to the gospel, a long friend, my wife gently reminded her of the reason why she, her dear friend, joined in the first place. So overwhelmed with the Spirit she cleaned her life again and is now an active member again.
What an amazing story of the power of Jesus Christ in our lives, that we can be a part of bringing others to Him and also being able to lean on Him to cleanse us. Thanks for sharing ❤
@@whyistaypodcast over a half dozen friends of my wife has joined the church because of her loving example of Jesus. One is in stake presidency in Virginia.
Aww thanks so much! It can be a scary task, but I'm so excited to share the gospel of Jesus Christ! He has done so much for me. I hope he can bring that healing to others too! 🕊️
Morgan Evans: I can picture your story so clearly because my son was also born with Ebstein Anomaly, and the beginning of our story is much like yours. I have many times over the years when talking about Primary Children's Medical Center mistakenly referred to it as "the temple", perhaps because of the many spiritual things that happened during that time. One thing I was told (from the other side) while we were fasting to know if we should let the doctors do a heart transplant, was that before he was born my son made a choice to sacrifice to come to earth to help our family draw closer to each other through the challenges that came through his heart problems. I was also told that if we did not, then his sacrifice would be in vain. The experiences I had while we were there were some of the most spiritual experiences of my life. I was only 24 years old but I was taught how clearly Heavenly Father and Christ know all things, and because they do, it is easier for me to trust and accept their will. Thank you so much for your testimony and for sharing your story. I remember how important it was to me to be able to go to Sacrament Meeting while in the hospital, and I still feel the same urgency. Church was important before this experience but through these life changing trials I have come to realize the depth of what it means to me. Christ is everything. He is my family's only hope. He is Why I Stay. He is also why I share my stories of Him. There may be negative and unbelieving comments, but someday all will know Him. They may either choose Him or decide to walk away, but I hope they choose Him, because He is the only one who can give comfort in this world of hurt and pain and suffering.
I've not heard of you Chanel and it just showed up, 8-14-24. The spiritual strength coming forth from his words thrill this 66 year old widower of 3 years. It had been hard but not as hard, in my mind, as loosing a child would be. Our greatest strength is the plan our father has shown us and the family we have around us. In the eloquent words of the 70's keep-on-keepin-on.❤❤❤
All I can say is wow! I understand the death of a child, because I lost both my boys to drunk drivers in separate crashes, 4 years apart. It's been many years now, but the longing never goes away. This is the first time I've listened to this podcast. I'll be back.
When I read your comment, I thought, "That must be impossible to bear." the loss of 2 sons! to the same horrible cause! And yet, here you are. I hope the strength of the Lord continues to carry you through. Thank you for sharing, thank you for listening.
@@whyistaypodcast I have been blessed to know where my boys are and what they are doing. It doesn't make all the ick go away, but it helps to keep it in perspective. And now, 30 years later, every day that goes by is a day closer to our joyful reunion. I'm thinking Celestial!
I like this interview. Shows a human approach to spirits and a spirit to your human guests. So this is a great first impression. Definitely going to follow your show.
It's funny to me that I can tell my own story, which is remarkably similar, with dry eyes now and even with a smile, but listening to this story makes me sob. My husband and I had twins in 2019. They had some twin specific complications that made the pregnancy complicated. They were born at 26 weeks, our first born (by 2 minutes) lived for 38 hours. His brother was in the NICU for 8 months and came home with a tracheostomy, ventilator dependent and fed totally with a feeding tube. My feelings about the Plan of Salvation are very similar. I *need* the Plan of Salvation to be real. It can't imagine how I would survive thinking 38 hours is all I got with Holden. I rely on that belief in eternity.
My daughter was born at 26 weeks too. She was given a 50% chance. Our world was falling apart. I just had emergency brain surgery and three days later the shock to my wife brought more trauma with a premature baby. She survived and so did I. In the next few months we learned she was blind and was struggling. Thank God she survived and that was 25 years ago. Yes she is still blind and struggles but I am grateful for her in my life. God has a plan if we trust in Him.
Beautiful testimony. My youngest son passed away a year ago Thanksgiving. In my 70 years I never really needed the Spirit of the comforter before, but that night he came. It was the most peaceful and humbleing experience. I keep wondering about those who have left, how their hearts must break not having the Holy Spirit with them.
I am so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine how hard that must be, especially around Thanksgiving. But thank you for testifying: Isn't it amazing how the Lord is always there for us, and He sends His Spirit to be with us?
Morgan's story was incredibly touching and his faith gives me hope. What an amazing man, father, and husband, thank you for sharing this! Your channel came in my feed, so glad I clicked on it , new subbie here!!
It was no coincidence that I listened to this today. Morgan's testimony helped me take a moment to zoom out and focus on the eternal nature of families. I pray the Evans family will feel the comforts of the spirit and continue to feel Charlie present in their home.
What a touching story! Im so sorry for your loss of your precious baby, Charlie. Your faith throughout this trial is very inspiring. I know Charlie is watching over you. ❤
I stay because, even with all it's faults and false traditions, there is currently no better sect, party, organization, affiliation, association, or society on earth with more truth and a better structure to serve others. I no longer profess the church is true. But the gospel of Jesus Christ IS true. Jesus never organized a church in his mortal or resurrected ministry, but He did call disciples to baptize, teach His gospel and be servants. Then they, organized a church. The Book of Mormon is the most correct book. Joseph Smith was a true prophet and an honorable man, innocent of the charges and accusations of church "historians" members and apostates alike. Everyone can receive personal revelation and know truth through obedience, study, prayer and by the Holy Ghost.
Thank you for your testimony! I also believe that this is the place that Jesus gave His priesthood authority. I'm grateful for how this has blessed my life. And yes, if we are humble, everyone can know that this is true! We just have to act in faith. Thank you!
Thank you for your kind words. The following Memorial Day after my son Mason passed away we discovered that my wife was pregnant with our son Asher. A complete surprise due to the fact that our other children came by way of fertility treatments. This was another tender mercy that came to us on a day of mourning. A few weeks later, however, we learned that Asher's heart quit beating and was a late miscarriage just 9 months after Mason passed away. Today is my son Asher's 4th birthday. I woke up a little early this morning, reflecting on my son and my personal journey of healing from loss. My thoughts drifted to a story I once heard about a father caring for his child who had a skin condition requiring treatment. Every day, the father lovingly applied ointment to his child's skin. As time passed, he noticed that his own cracked and broken hands also began to heal from the contact with the ointment. Even after his child's wounds had healed, the father continued to use the ointment on his own hands, recognizing its healing benefits. "The Bible records that in ancient times there came from Gilead, beyond the Jordan, a substance used to heal and soothe. It came, perhaps, from a tree or shrub, and was a major commodity of trade in the ancient world. It was known as the Balm of Gilead. That name became symbolic for the power to soothe and heal." - Elder Boyd K. Packer As I reflect on the memory of my children who have passed and my own healing journey, I attribute the progress I've made to my faith in the Savior and the opportunities I've been blessed with to serve other bereaved families. In serving others, like the father in the story, I've found healing within myself. As I've leaned into the Savior for the healing power of the Atonement, like the application of the Balm of Gilead, I've found peace and comfort. Jesus promised us that as we call upon Him, He will pray to the Father to send the Comforter, who will abide with us forever: “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” (John 14:14-18.) Having experienced this comforting power in my own life, I know this to be true. For those who listened to this podcast, you may remember me describing the moment Mason passed and the sun shined through the window welcoming a new day. This morning I came across a tender mercies during my studies on the Balm of Gilead which took me to the hymn, Did You Think To Pray (Verse 3.)? To me, these lines reminisce about that morning in the NICU. When sore trials came upon you, Did you think to pray? When your soul was full of sorrow, Balm of Gilead did you borrow At the gates of day? Oh, how praying rests the weary! Prayer will change the night to day. So, when life gets dark and dreary, Don't forget to pray. Happy Birthday, my son Asher. I love and cherish you forever!
I love hearing everyone’s testimonies and experiences. What Colin talked about was wonderful and powerful, and I noticed that he alluded to other things he’s gone through and experiences he’s had that are also part of his story, even though it’s not what he chose to talk about right now. God gives us so much. I love what you said about forgiveness and how you couldn’t let go on your own power. I’ve also had that experience recently, and the feeling of release and purity was a true miracle to my soul. This is the best content on the internet. Scholars and historians are great, but at the end of the day no amount of human knowledge can compare with the sharing of testimonies.
My friends, thank you for sharing your experience in your search for God. I just heard the testimony of a former BYU professor Lynn Wilder. I was shocked to learn that in Doctrine and Covenants 132:34-35 it teaches that God commanded Abraham to take Hagar as his second wife. This is a plain contradiction to what it says in Genesis. There is nowhere in the Bible that God commands polygamy. Secondly I was shocked to learn that at the temple they were singing a hymn to praise Joseph Smith. This goes against God’s word. We should only be singing praise to God and his son Jesus, no person is worthy of our worship. My friends, out of love I must caution you. These two issues are major red flags that the mormon church is a man made religion. I am praying for you, that the Lord will give you strength to leave. We all have to stand before God one day, don’t worry about what people or family might say or do to you. There is no need for the temple anymore because Jesus was the final sacrifice, the lamb who takes away the sins of the world. There is no way we can be righteous enough to enter heaven. Only God can make us righteous. Jesus said in John 5:24 “I tell you the truth whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.”
I think you have many common misunderstandings about members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The main one is that we think "works" is what allows us to ascend to Heaven. This couldn't be further from the truth. What we do in the temple and baptism is make and live covenants that show Jesus Christ that we are willing to allow Him to literally change us. In no way, shape, or form do we believe that us of our own actions will ever allow us to ascend to Heaven. This is 100% only by and through the Grace of Christ. If you are going to try to evangelize members, I would suggest, at the minimum, watching some in-depth apologist debates between members and non-members.
Thank you for your kind reply. Even though we have differences, I could really feel your sincerity and kindness, which I appreciate so much. That is needed so desperately in the world today. Keep sharing your light!
Thank you for your comment. May you experience love and kindness. May you find peace and joy. May your body be healthy and strong. May you be free from suffering.
Love Jasmine’s comments on how discipleship is a “Lifelong Pursuit” and you see that in our temple worship. That’s what we hope to achieve on the mission front-lifelong missionary service 🙏💪⚡️
It's a way of changing what we love and desire, to rewire our beings so it's something we "do" and something we "love to do" and then "long to do" so that we are compelled to go and to serve. Thanks for the encouraging comment!