Q: How do I tell the difference between promptings from the
Holy Ghost and my own thoughts?
A: For some reason, this is a question which preoccupies
members of the church, especially the youth and young adults. I have heard some variation of this question
in countless settings throughout the church.
I have heard it in seminary and institute classes, I have heard it
during ward youth activities, and during Sunday school and priesthood
classes. I also noticed that this
question cropped up in every single face to face session the general authorities
have held with the young adults in the church.
Clearly, there is a burning desire to learn the answer to this question!
I think it is a good sign that so many want to know how to
better recognize that voice of the spirit.
It shows that people across the church are thinking about this question,
and seeking to better know the Lord.
However, I do think it is a little strange that there should be so much
confusion among members of the church.
Presumably, if they are members of the church, then they have been
baptized and they have received the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of
hands. Since we are therefore entitled to the companionship of the Holy Ghost
to guide, instruct, and direct us in our lives; surely Latter-day Saints must
be experts when it comes to receiving and recognizing the spirit.
Why All the Confusion?
Given the particular facility the gift of the Holy Ghost
ought to bestow upon members of the church, why is it (clearly) so difficult
for us to tell the difference between the voice of the spirit and other
influences?