Questions & Answers

How do you know that Heavenly Father has forgiven you?

“When we choose to repent, we choose to change! We allow the Savior to transform us into the best version of ourselves. We choose to grow spiritually and receive joy—the joy of redemption in Him.”

President Russell M. Nelson, “We Can Do Better and Be Better,” Apr. 2019 general conference (Ensign or Liahona, May 2019, 67).

Feeling the Spirit

I know I’ve been forgiven whenever I am able to feel the Spirit. Especially as a missionary, it’s always important to have the Spirit in our lives. If we’re living righteously, we’ll always have the Spirit with us, and He’ll help us know our standing with God.

Elder Bakker, 23, Brazil Vitória Mission

Reassurance That Christ Is with Me

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus Christ endured all of the pains and sins of the world so we could be forgiven of our sins and one day be worthy to enter the celestial kingdom. I feel forgiven when I feel a reassurance that Christ is with me and is touching me spiritually.

Alex H., 15, Idaho, USA

Love and Happiness

I love the gift of repentance because I often feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and heartache whenever I make a mistake. When I take the time to kneel down and ask my Heavenly Father for forgiveness with sincere intent, I am overcome with a strong feeling of love, peace, and happiness! I no longer feel alone, and that is how I know Heavenly Father has forgiven me.

Brynlee H., 17, Utah, USA

Peace in My Heart

Feeling peace in my heart is how I recognize I’ve been forgiven. I will always remember that I’ve done something wrong, but this helps me learn not to do it again. The Lord has made us a wonderful promise: “Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more” (Doctrine and Covenants 58:42).

David E., 19, Chihuahua, Mexico

What Do You Think?

“How can I use the gospel to help me overcome depression?”

Submit your answer and, if desired, a high-resolution photograph by September 15, 2020.

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Responses may be edited for length or clarity. Published responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements of Church doctrine.