In order to prove a claim in court, there are three different standards of evidence. To prove a claim on the “preponderance of the evidence” is to provide enough proof that the claim is more likely true than not. In other words, there is at least a 51% probability that it is true. For “clear and convincing” evidence, there must be a high probability that the claim is true. And the final standard is “beyond a reasonable doubt.” Beyond a reasonable doubt means that there is no other logical reason than the one presented by the evidence that could possibly be believed. When it comes to our testimonies, what is our standard of evidence. Do we believe in Jesus Christ based on the preponderance of the evidence, with clear and convincing proof, or beyond a reasonable doubt? If we are still plagued by reasonable or unreasonable doubts, the Lord may bless us with the opportunity to strengthen the level of our testimony, although while we are going through it, it may not seem like a blessing. The people of Alma may have gone against the wishes of their king to hear about the gospel based on the preponderance of the evidence. They may have gained a witness that was clear and convincing enough to be baptized and hide in the wilderness. But to remain faithful after falling into the hands of their enemies and being banned from prayer or worship and having heavy burdens placed upon them and being left with no possible means of deliverance except through the power and mercy of the Lord would have required a testimony beyond a reasonable doubt. “Nevertheless the Lord seeth fit to chasten his people; yea, he trieth their patience and their faith. Nevertheless—whosoever putteth his trust in him the same shall be lifted up at the last day. Yea, and thus it was with this people. For behold, I will show unto you that they were brought into bondage, and none could deliver them but the Lord their God, yea, even the God of Abraham and Isaac and of Jacob.” (Mosiah 23:21-23) To have our faith and our patience tried can be really hard but to gain a testimony that can withstand the attacks of even the strongest and most logically sound doubts is priceless. I hope that whatever standard of proof our testimonies currently rest at, we will continue to strive to deepen and strengthen our witness of God’s love for us and His willingness and ability to bless our lives.
