The Gift of the Holy Ghost

As Jesus came out of the waters of baptism, the Holy Ghost, descending like a dove, lighted upon him. (See Matt. 3:16.) A symbol of truth, purity, and peace, the dove is a beautiful reminder of the blessings of the gift of the Holy Ghost. Each person who is baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints receives, through the laying on of hands, this marvelous gift.

The Holy Ghost is a Witness to the Truth of the Gospel

The Holy Ghost is a comforter, a guide, a teacher, and a witness. Through its power, “we may know the truth of all things” (Moro. 10:5). Through its power, we receive a testimony of Jesus Christ. “No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Cor. 12:3).

The Holy Ghost also confirms the truthfulness of the scriptures and prophets. When Sister Flori Cobo de Lumbreras of Cádiz, Spain, read the Book of Mormon, she “had strong desires to ask God if this book was true, if Joseph Smith was truly a prophet, and if God wanted me to join the Church.

“I tossed and turned in bed, disturbed for four or five hours, and finally knelt at the side of my bed and began to raise my voice to my Father. The answer came with great strength to my heart. What joy! What peace! A warm feeling covered me.”

What truths has the Holy Ghost witnessed to you?
How do you feel when the Holy Ghost is with you?

The Holy Ghost Can Be a Constant Companion

Alma speaks poignantly to each of us when he asks: “And now behold, I say unto you, … if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?” (Alma 5:26). We must continually work to have the companionship of the Holy Ghost, for its presence depends on our righteousness. The Holy Ghost can influence us only as we are humble, faithful, and obedient. We must strive to keep the commandments so that we may hear the “still, small voice.”

Pam, a sister who had not been active in the Church for years, found this to be true as she struggled daily to change her life and repent of past mistakes that weighed heavily upon her mind. As she earnestly sought the companionship of the Holy Ghost, she was able to pray with greater purpose and to keep the Lord’s commandments. Because of her faith, hope, and repentance, the Holy Ghost touched and changed her life, eventually leading her to receive temple blessings.

The companionship of the Holy Ghost fills our hearts with joy and peace. “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost” (Rom. 15:13). As we try to be worthy to have the Holy Ghost with us and as we follow its whisperings, we receive guidance, support, comfort, and confirmation.

When does the Holy Ghost withdraw from our lives?
How can we regain its presence?

Illustrated by Kristy Morris