Nourishing a Growing Testimony

By: W. Denis Nurmela

Narrated by: Wayne Denis Nurmela

Knowing that our Father in Heaven exists is not something that we first learn upon this earth," says Denis Nurmela.

It is only recently that we do not remember. Mortality veils our memories of God. It becomes our duty and our privilege to live in such a way that our memory of God returns. We don't have to gain a new testimony of our Father in Heaven; we already have one. This one testimony is therefore unique. All other testimonies are gained by our experiences here on earth. But this most singular of all testimonies is the first and most important. It becomes the foundation for all other testimonies."

This book is filled with such profound insights. It draws upon everyday occurrences and the workings of nature to explain the development of testimony. Suddenly we see the enormity of God's love and how we can 'conform" to His plan. We understand that growing a testimony is a process, that spiritual gifts of God are plentiful, and that testimonies bud and blossom in proportion to our commitment, comprehension and ability to live the associated principles.

Marvin Goldstein, world-renowned pianist, says, "This book is a simple yet powerful presentation of ideas to build personal testimonies of our eternal relationship with our Father in Heaven. As Denis Nurmela states, faith plus a desire to learn allows our Father to enter our very souls and teach us in a most eternal sense. Seeing past the surface of our experiences will allow our spiritual memories to become gifts of testimony."

This book would be a wonderful addition to any LDS member or Christian’s library. It is a great gift especially enjoyed by teenagers and young adults.

© 2023, 2024 Wayne Denis Nurmela (P)2024 Wayne Denis Nurmela

Book Review: Nourishing a Growing Testimony

Denis Nurmela's Nourishing a Growing Testimony offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of personal faith, growth, and spiritual reflection. One of the standout elements of the book is the author's creative use of parables and analogies, which enrich the reader's understanding of the journey of developing a testimony. These metaphors – ranging from the process of baking to images of baby ducks, lions, food coloring, jigsaw puzzles, and even downpours – make complex spiritual ideas accessible and engaging.

The use of such vivid imagery allows the reader to appreciate the nuances of faith and personal growth in a way that is both informative and enjoyable. For example, the analogy of trees growing into the wind evokes a sense of resilience that faith requires. A particularly resonant aspect of the book for me was Denis' emphasis on the role of difficulties in the development process. These reflections tie beautifully into the central theme of the book: that testimony, much like a growing plant or a well-baked dish, takes time, bitter ingredients as well as sweet, care, and reflection to develop fully.

Overall, Nourishing a Growing Testimony is a beautifully written meditation on the growth of faith and the power of testimony. Through vivid analogies and personal reflections, Denis offers a fresh perspective on the ways in which our spiritual journeys unfold, providing readers with both inspiration and insight into their own paths.