Friday, October 16, 2009

October 2009 General Conference: Helping Others Recognize the Whisperings of the Spirit


Vicki F. Matsumori, Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency, gave counsel with regard to helping others recognize spiritual insight, particularly our children. Starting from a quotation of a passage from the Doctrine and Covenants, she went on to explain how we can help others benefit from the communications of the Spirit they might otherwise miss. We teach them to understand the doctrine.

First, we teach them to recognize how they feel under the influence of the Spirit.
The scriptures and the prophets teach what this constant companionship feels like. The Lord tells us, “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.” Enos stated, “While I was . . . struggling in the spirit, behold, the voice of the Lord came into my mind.” Joseph Smith said, “When you feel pure intelligence flowing into you, it may give you sudden strokes of ideas.” President Henry B. Eyring described the influence of the Holy Ghost as “peace, hope, and joy.” He added, “Almost always I have also felt a sensation of light.”
My favorite description, though, comes from an eight-year-old boy who had just received the Holy Ghost. He said, “It felt like sunshine.”
Second, we do this by bearing our testimony. Sharing testimony helps others feel the influence of the Spirit.

Third, we provide an environment where the Spirit can be felt. This means taking the time and making the effort to invite spiritual feelings.

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