"[As taught by Alma in Alma 32,] the process [of faith-building] begins with a 'desire to believe.' An individual must then plant the seed, which is the word of God, in his or her heart by searching the scriptures, listening to the words of the prophets, praying and asking for a confirmation of gospel truths, going to church, and obeying the commandments. The result, Alma says, will be a swelling in one’s bosom, an enlightenment of the mind, and warm feelings in the heart (see Alma 32:28). These are the beginnings of a testimony—and the seed is good. Anyone with a sincere desire to know can obtain a testimony by following Alma’s teachings in chapter 32.
After explaining the initial faith-building process, Alma continues with a question in chapter 32: 'After ye have tasted this light is your knowledge perfect?' (Alma 32:35). No—the process has just begun (see Alma 32:36). The seed has grown but is still only a seedling. Alma explains that if one continues faithful, the seedling will grow into a tree. What tree? The tree of life! (see Alma 32:41). This tree is a symbol of God’s love for His children expressed through the condescension and atoning sacrifice of His Son (see 1 Nephi 11:9–33; John 3:16).
Alma teaches the Zoramites that when the tree is deep within their souls, they will feast upon its fruit and not hunger or thirst (see Alma 32:42–43). In other words, they will have experienced spiritual rebirth—the mighty change of heart—and the tree deep within their soul will produce God’s image in their countenances.
- Elder Merrill J. Bateman, CES Fireside for Young Adults, March 5, 2006
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