Would I Know What to Say?

This morning, I was reading an article in the Liahona that sent me all over the scriptures. One passage led to another, and before long I found myself thinking about testimony, miracles, and the way the Lord teaches us.

Acts 4 stopped me.

When Peter and John were questioned, they prayed for boldness. Then they stood and spoke by the power of the Holy Ghost. It made me wonder: If all eyes were on me and I was asked to explain what I believe, would I know where to begin?

I hope I would pray for the companionship of the Holy Ghost and then start with what I know. Maybe the Articles of Faith. Maybe the Creation and God's plan for His children. I may not know everything, but I know enough to begin and trust the Spirit to help with the rest.

That thought led me to Nephi.

After Nephi prayed for strength, "the bands were loosed." The first thing he did was stand and speak to his brothers. I've often wondered what he said.

By then, Nephi had years of evidence that the Lord was guiding him. He could testify of answered prayers, protection, and miracles. He had experiences.

Could I do the same?

I think I could.

After years in a very dark place, one sincere prayer brought an answer that changed everything. It was the beginning of a journey that has repeatedly shown me that God knows who I am.

I've also seen the Lord help in smaller ways. Once, overwhelmed by conflicting responsibilities, I finally turned the problem over to Him. The next morning, a series of phone calls unexpectedly cleared my schedule so I could be where I needed to be. Was it a miracle? I think so. The Lord made a way when I couldn't see one.

As my scripture wandering continued, I found myself in 2 Nephi 28. Nephi warns us about Satan's tactics: lies, flattery, complacency, and trusting in the wisdom of men over the word of God. His playbook hasn't changed.

Yet among all the warnings comes one of my favorite promises: the Lord teaches us "line upon line, precept upon precept."

Maybe that's the answer to my question. If I were asked to testify today, I wouldn't need to know everything. I would simply begin with what I know, share what I have experienced, and trust the Lord to provide the next line, the next precept, and the next words to say.