From the First Presidency

How Does Heavenly Father Speak to Us?

By President Dallin H. Oaks

First Counselor in the First Presidency

Adapted from “Eight Ways God Can Speak to You,” New Era, Sept. 2004, 4–8.

Heavenly Father can speak to us in many different ways. When Joseph Smith prayed about which church was right, Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ appeared to him and talked to him face to face. But usually Heavenly Father speaks to us through the Holy Ghost. He gives us thoughts in our mind and feelings in our heart.

Here are some of the ways we can hear Him:

1. A feeling that Jesus loves us and that the gospel is true

2. A feeling of comfort when we are sad or lonely

3. A happy feeling after we have repented

4. A good feeling when we hear beautiful music or see inspiring art

5. A peaceful feeling that something is a good choice

6. A warning feeling that something is wrong

Choose the Right and Listen

When Heavenly Father speaks to us through the Holy Ghost, it’s called “revelation.” Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ don’t give us revelation about everything we do. But we don’t need to worry. If we’re trying to choose the right and listen to the Holy Ghost, They will help and guide us when it’s important.