Earliest testimony that I know God is real

It is interesting how this morning I had flashbacks of my first feelings of knowing without a doubt that GOD was real and created this earth. I was reminded of it this morning as I saw a scene of the Grand Canyon. I recall the wide open spaces and nothing but rock formation seen for miles and miles and me actually standing in the middle of it.

Thoughts came to my mind as I looked at the vast rock formations and brilliant colors --the words came to my mind and heart, "God created all this, I know for myself." I cannot say that I ever doubted the fact that there is a GOD, as I stood there. I was on a vacation trip 42 years ago with my husband, my oldest son, then only fourteen months old. I was also expecting my second child and was six months pregnant. My in-laws took us on this trip back to Indianapolis which was in October 1965.

The idea that I gained a personal confirmation about the existence of God came naturally to me. I was taught to pray as a child and had many experiences growing up where I knew my prayers had been answered. I was not a member of the church at the time, but did pray in my own way. However, the single most outstanding concept taught to me by the missionaries a few years after my experience knowing God was real, was how to pray correctly.

So, knowing God was real and then knowing how to communicate with him has enhanced my life ever since. I am so grateful for prayer and how it brings me peace, wisdom, faith besides comfort.


I know mother's prayers are very effective and carry a lot of weight. These prayers seem to spread beams of light up to heaven and draw a lot of attention like beacons in a dark place. My life is filled and through prayer I have experienced faith, much joy and happiness from the answers to my prayers.

Right now, as my oldest son needs my prayers, I especially petition the Lord in his behalf for the way to be opened for him to received the blessings and pleadings of his heart for his career advancement training. Combined with that request I will fast for him on Sunday for hearts to be softened and opened in his behalf for those that will hear his cause. I know he will be lifted up and sustained to receive this righteous desire of his heart and answers to his prayers.

I sent him an email with a message of love and support that I will include here.

Dear Hank,

I just read your blog for yesterday. I am so pleased that you have all your "ducks" in a row--for you to be able to get into the class you have waited and wanted to do for so long.

I have a witness also to tell you that there was a reason that one slot was left open--even if it was not usually for a National Guard personnel. Sweetie, did you know that It was very well arranged in heaven and in your behalf at the feet of the Savior from the pleadings of your ancestors (and YOUR mother)

Go now my son, in Faith that all is well and you will be watched over and protected by those same guardians on the other side to assure your safety there and your return.

God Bless you on this mission to complete all that you were sent here to do and more so with your Master thesis as well.

I will pray for you to continue to have the help from heaven with angels all around you giving you the EXTRA support and help you need to be Victorious and successful. Keep up the good work! LTC, Hank McIntire, M.A, PHD. -- Go. Go. Go HANK!!

I love you and know you deserve this and you will do your part to put forth the effort to accomplish. Well done. Your family will support you with our faith and prayers of Thanksgiving and your continued success. Fear not, doubt not.

I Love You, forever,
Mom--