“The Holy Ghost Can Help Us,” Liahona, June 2023.
Gospel Basics
The Holy Ghost Can Help Us
The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead. The scriptures also refer to Him as the Spirit, the Holy Spirit, or the Comforter. As we learn to listen to His voice, He will testify to us of Jesus Christ and help us learn the truths of the gospel.
Member of the Godhead
Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are the Godhead. They love us and work in unity to bring to pass the plan of salvation. Although Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have bodies of flesh and bones, the Holy Ghost does not. He is a spirit.
Witness of the Father and the Son
The Holy Ghost “witnesses of the Father and the Son” (2 Nephi 31:18). This means that we can receive a testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through the Holy Ghost.
Testifies of Truth
The Holy Ghost testifies of all truth. He will help us know that the gospel—including the plan of salvation, God’s commandments, the Restoration, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ—are true. He will strengthen our testimony as we continue to pray, keep the commandments, and study the gospel.
Guides and Protects Us
The Holy Ghost can guide us in our decisions and protect us from physical and spiritual danger. He will help us find answers to our questions if we pray and try to do what is right. He will always lead us “to do good” (Doctrine and Covenants 11:12).
Comforts Us
The Holy Ghost is sometimes referred to as “the Comforter” (John 14:26). He can fill us “with hope and perfect love” (Moroni 8:26) when we are worried, sad, or afraid. As He helps us feel God’s love, we can overcome discouragement and be strengthened in our trials.
The Gift of the Holy Ghost
After we are baptized, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost in an ordinance called confirmation. Once we receive this gift, we can have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost as long as we are living righteously.
Illustration by J. Kirk Richards
How We Hear the Holy Ghost
The Holy Ghost communicates to people in different ways. These may include peaceful, comforting feelings or insights about what to say or do. As we pray for guidance and listen for His promptings, we can learn how He speaks to us.