Personalizing the Holy Ghost

Last month, I was asked yet again to speak on the Holy Ghost at an investigator baptism on February 11. It would be the third time, in addition to numerous church talks on the same subject. Also, the baptism was of the parents and oldest children of a family, so I had to consider the varying ages. I was trying to think of what I could say that I hadn't already said to make it more meaningful. It then came to me that I should share how the Holy Ghost can help each family member specifically. I found scripture verses for the Spirit's role relevant to each person.

Family member: second oldest daughter
Trial: bullying issues at school
Spirit's relevant role: Comforting us
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, John 14: 16-18

Family member: oldest daughter
Trial: boy problems
Spirit's relevant role: Helping us feel God's love
Scripture: 1 John 3:16, Romans 5:5

Family member: mother
Trial: parenting
Spirit's relevant role: Revealing to us everything we need to do
Scripture: 2 Nephi 32:5

Family member: father
Trial: being the priesthood leader of the family
Spirit's relevant role: Being our constant companion as we stay worthy of his presence
Scripture: D&C 121: 36-37

I ended by sharing how they could tell if the Spirit was active in their lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

I received more compliments on this talk than any other I have given on the Holy Ghost. It confirmed to me the importance of personalizing the gospel.

Sharing Time: In what way has the Holy Ghost played a significant role in your life?

Comments

Anonymous said…

I think personalizing anything is the key to effectiveness. Thank you for the reminder and so glad it was a success!

March 25, 2017 at 10:33 AM

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