Let’s Ponder …

Recognizing the Holy Ghost

Is it the Holy Ghost, or is it me? Have you wondered this before? If so, you’re definitely not alone. Actually, it’s one of the most common questions youth (and adults!) have about the gospel.

The good news is, recognizing the Holy Ghost doesn’t need to be tricky. Yes, it takes effort on your part. But as Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has said, “If you are honoring your covenants, repenting, and pressing forward with faith in the Savior, then you are living in revelation. It does not just come once in a while. You continually are being influenced by the power of the Holy Ghost.”

• When have I noticed the Holy Ghost in my life?

• What does the Holy Ghost feel like to me?

• When have I been guided by the Holy Ghost without realizing it at the time?

• What can I do to notice and feel the Holy Ghost more often?

Things to Study

• For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (2026), 10–13.

• David A. Bednar, “Patterns of Light” videos, Gospel Library.

• Scriptures: James 1:5; 2 Nephi 28:30; Doctrine and Covenants 6:22–23; 8:2; 9:8; 42:61.

Why does it seem that other people have greater spiritual experiences than I do?

“Not all spiritual experiences are miraculous or dramatic. Most of the time, God speaks to us through thoughts in our minds or gentle feelings in our hearts. These are the quiet whisperings of the still, small voice. You might be feeling the Spirit and not recognizing it yet. Keep praying. Keep studying the word of God. With time and practice, you will learn to recognize the Spirit in a variety of ways.”

For the Strength of Youth: A Guide for Making Choices (2026), 13.

Note

1. David A. Bednar, in Scott Taylor, “In Ensign College Q&A, Elder Bednar Turns Focus to Role of the Holy Ghost,” Church News, Feb. 1, 2023, thechurchnews.com.