Spiritual Promptings

From an interview with Sister Jean A. Stevens, first counselor in the Primary general presidency; by Annie Beer

Through a still small voice, the Spirit speaks to me (Children’s Songbook, 106–107).

One evening my children and I were driving down a hill near our home. I noticed a boy about 12 years old wearing a backpack and walking up the hill. It was a strange time for him to be coming home from school, but I didn’t think too much of it.

Then I had a strong impression that I should turn around and help the boy. But I was worried it would frighten him if a strange car pulled up next to him at night, so I continued driving.

As I got to the bottom of the hill, the impression came again: “You need to go help that boy.”

I turned the car around and drove back to the boy. I rolled down the window and said, “Do you need help? I had a prompting that I should come back and help you.”

The boy looked at us with tears streaming down his face. He said, “Would you? I’ve been praying that someone would help me.”

He had stayed after school for an activity and had missed the last bus. He had walked several miles already. It was getting dark, and he was frightened. Because of the boy’s prayer and the Spirit’s prompting, we were able to help him find his way home.

We can all pray when we need help. I received a spiritual feeling that helped the boy return home. You too can receive promptings through the Spirit that will help guide you safely home to Heavenly Father.

Illustration by Paul Mann