Monday, December 1, 2014

The Savior's Instructions about the Holy Ghost

In John 14:15–17, 26–27; 15:26–27; 16:7–8,13–14, the Savior teaches about the Holy Ghost

What the Holy Ghost does:
  • "...teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26)
  • "...he shall testify of me" (John 15:26)
  • "...he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment" (John 16:8)
  • He will guide us to the truth and provide revelation (John 16:13)
  • Show us the glory of the Savior (John 16:14)
From the institute Manual-
  • "In the presence of such persons, one feels to enjoy the light of the countenances, as the genial rays of a sunbeam. Their very atmosphere diffuses a thrill, a warm glow of pure gladness and sympathy, to the heart and nerves of others who have kindred feelings, or sympathy of spirit.” 
  • “It develops beauty of person, form and features” (Pratt, Key to the Science of Theology, p. 101.) (From Points to Ponder, "The Holy ghost Brings Man to His Fullest Potential." pg 168)
  • "He bears witness of the truth, quickens the minds of those who have made covenant and reveals to them the mysteries of the kingdom of God.” (Smith, Answers to Gospel Questions, 5:123.) (From Points to Ponder, “As a Messenger of the Godhead, the Holy Ghost Teaches Faithful Members,” pg. 168)
What disciples must do to receive the Holy Ghost:
  • "If ye love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15)
  • Have faith, believe in Jesus Christ and remain worthy to receive the Holy Ghost. (John 14:17)
  • "And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning (John 15:27)
How did the Holy Ghost Help the Apostles Fulfill Their Mission?

The Apostles had a huge task in front of them, after Jesus’ death and resurrection,  They were to continue His ministry on earth, in His name. "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” (John 15:16) Jesus did not leave His Apostles alone, but left them with a Comforter, the Holy Ghost, who would guide them, who would speak for Him and who would show them what would be.

“… It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” (John 16:7)

 “...when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

“He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.” (John 16:13–14).

How has the Holy Ghost Blessed my Life?

Just over two years ago, my husband (who has been a member of the Church all his life), and I were meeting with our Ward missionaries- they were teaching me. During our lessons, we talked many times about my being baptized and I would know when it was the right time for me. There were some questions that I had that still had not been answered, and I knew, when the time was right, that the Holy Ghost would guide me--that I would feel the power of the Holy Ghost. I felt that power for the first time at a special Stake Conference, in which Elder David A. Bednar talked. As he spoke, it was as if he were speaking to me directly. I felt the Spirit that day, and my husband did as well. We knew I had my answer. I felt the Holy Ghost again a short time later when I was prompted to buy a book after visiting the Salt Lake Temple. In that book, I found the other answers I needed. I was baptized by my husband a week later.

In the Bible Dictionary, we read, "The power can come upon one before baptism and is the convincing witness that the gospel is true. By the power of the Holy Ghost a person receives a testimony of Jesus Christ and of His work and the work of His servants upon the earth.”

Since the day my husband baptized me and I received the gift of the Holy Ghost, I have blessed every day. I start the day asking that my heart be open to the promptings of the Spirit, so that I might hear that still small voice and do what is asked of me. And, I find opportunity most every day; in serving others, in sharing the Gospel, and in loving my family and our Savior, Jesus Christ.