Relief Society Lesson -- An Unspeakable Gift from God

An Unspeakable Gift from God

Elder Craig C. Christensen
Of the Presidency of the Seventy

Who Is the Holy Ghost?

The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead.

The Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit who communicates to our spirits through feelings and impressions.

The Holy Ghost is an agent through which personal revelation is received.

What Is the Mission of the Holy Ghost?

The primary purpose of the Holy Ghost is to bear witness of God the Father and of His Son, Jesus Christ, and to teach us the truth of all things.

The Holy Ghost is also known as the Comforter. During times of trouble or despair or simply when we need to know that God is near, the Holy Ghost can lift our spirits, give us hope, and teach us “the peaceable things of the kingdom,” helping us feel “the peace of God, which passeth all understanding.”

The Holy Ghost is a teacher and a revelator. As we study, ponder, and pray about gospel truths, the Holy Ghost enlightens our minds and quickens our understanding. He causes the truth to be indelibly written in our souls and can cause a mighty change to occur in our hearts.

The Holy Ghost inspires us to reach out to others in service.

How Does the Holy Ghost Speak to Us?

“Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.” Doctrine and Covenants 8:2

President Boyd K. Packer has taught: “The Holy Ghost speaks with a voice that you feel more than you hear.”

 
What Does It Mean to Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost?

Before baptism, all honest and sincere seekers of truth can feel the influence of the Holy Ghost from time to time. However, the opportunity to receive the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost and the fullness of all the associated blessings is available only to worthy, baptized members who receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands through those holding the priesthood authority of God.

 
Through the gift of the Holy Ghost, we receive added capacity and spiritual gifts, increased revelation and protection, steady guidance and direction, and the promised blessings of sanctification and exaltation in the celestial kingdom.