Questions and Answers

“How do you personally experience the Spirit and His promptings?”

“More precious than a memory of events is the memory of the Holy Ghost touching our hearts and His continuing affirmation of truth. … Often it is a feeling of light and quiet assurance.”

President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency, “His Spirit to Be with You,” Apr. 2018 general conference (Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 87).

Sudden Ideas and Thoughts

“I feel the Spirit and receive promptings through sudden ideas and thoughts. This happens when my mind is open to God. At Young Women camp, I felt really lonely. I walked to my cabin and prayed about it. Afterward I had the feeling to turn around. I did and met with my leaders. We had a great time ziplining and eating snow cones! This experience helped me learn how I can feel the Spirit.”

Harper J., 14, Oregon, USA

Peace in Nature

“The calmness of nature helps me feel the Spirit. Nature gives me peace when I am struggling with something. I often sit or walk outside and reflect on how I can overcome my struggles. I have received many promptings while being surrounded by nature.”

Addison P., 14, North Carolina, USA

Act on Promptings

“Don’t brush off promptings that may seem small. Even just an idea of saying something to someone can be the Spirit’s way of prompting you. Even if a prompting seems small, act on it. As you show that you are willing to act in faith, He will prompt you to do more.”

Rose W., 15, Utah, USA

Preparedness

“I feel the Spirit’s promptings when I am well-prepared. I do this by saying heartfelt prayers and trying as hard as I can to hear Him. When I feel ready, I am more confident and resilient. I know that when we are prepared, we can receive the Spirit’s promptings.”

Pauline K., 17, Fiji

The Comforter

“The Spirit comforts me. Once, I prayed for help on a specific issue. During my prayer, I felt comforted. I knew that as long as I kept following His counsel, God would help and comfort me. This led me to read the scriptures and do all I can to feel the Spirit often.”

Sophie G., 15, Minnesota, USA

Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine.

What Do You Think?

“I’m never the best at anything I try. How can I keep trying without getting discouraged?”

Send your answer and photo by September 15, 2023.

Email us at [e-mail]. Or go to ftsoy.ChurchofJesusChrist.org and click “Submit Your Work.” Sign in with your Church Account and then select “For the Strength of Youth” under “Choose Magazine.” Click “Add File” to select your file and photos, and then click “Submit” to upload and send us your file.

Responses may be edited for length or clarity.