Lesson: The Gift of the Holy Ghost

Today Sis. Emilie Scow taught the Relief Society Lesson.  It was Lesson 21 in the Gospel Principles Book.  First, Sis. Scow had us list the qualities of the Holy Ghost.  These were the qualities people listed:
-feelings of peace
-purifies/sanctification
-prepares us to live with God
-Comforter
-personage of Spirit
-testifies
-member of the Godhead
-bears witness of truth
-influence can be everywhere
-warns us
-helps to answer prayers
-teaches us
-reminds us
-"burning in the bosom"/warmth
-transfer information from Heavenly Father

Sis. Scow then had us discuss the difference between the power of the Holy Ghost and Gift of the Holy Ghost.  Sis. Albretsen shared the analogy she frequently did on her mission.  She held up a pen with the pen cap off.  She said that the power of the Holy Ghost or the influence of the Holy Ghost is like the pen where the cap could touch the pen but they weren't together.  Then Sis. Albretsen put the cap on the pen saying how the Gift of the Holy Ghost means it can always be with you.  We talked about "receiving the Holy Ghost" is an action word that we need to RECEIVE the Holy Ghost and accept that gift and be worthy of it.  Sis. Scow had us discuss ways on how we keep our minds and thoughts worthy to have the Holy Ghost with us.  Many sisters mentioned that it takes practice, and to keep a prayer in your heart.  Other sisters suggested things such as singing hymns and watching what you actually are having your brain consume, such as what you are reading, watching on TV, participating in etc.  Sometimes you can not control your environment, but you can set the example.

Sis. Scow then had us read three scriptures:
-1 Kings 19:9-12
-D&C 85:6
-Helaman 5:30

Finally, Sis. Scow ended with a quoted by President Boyd K. Packer: " I understood that the still, small voice is felt more than heard." ("The Spirit of the Tabernacle", Ensign May 2007)

I am grateful to know that through the baptism of water and the baptism of fire (receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost), we can truly be guided and directed back to our Heavenly Father.  I know that the Holy Ghost testifies of truth and of our Savior Jesus Christ and I am grateful that by keeping myself worthy, I can constantly has his influence in my life.