Seeking Spirituality

Last week, we were invited to do somewhat of a presentation at a local college for one of their religious groups, called "Seeking Spirituality".  I guess the group gets together a couple of times a month, and talks amongst themselves, or invites people from congregations in the community to give their thoughts and opinions.  They asked us how we, as member of our church and as individuals, sought spirituality.

Preparing for this opportunity, I thought a lot about what spirituality even meant.  I came to the conclusion, that for me, "spirituality" was having the Holy Ghost with me at all times.  As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, when we are baptized and confirmed members, we are blessed with the gift of the Holy Ghost, which means that we have the opportunity to have the presence of the Holy Ghost with us at all times, as we live worthily.

This gift is truly immeasurable.  Before we are baptized, we can feel the influence and power of the Holy Ghost.  He helps us to come to the knowledge that Jesus Christ truly is the Savior of the world, that we have a Father in Heaven who loves us and wants the best of us, and the Holy Ghost testifies of truth to us.  But to have a member of the Godhead with us, always, is an amazing promise.  We cannot become converted without His influence.  Conversion is a lifelong process, one at which we must always be working.

Elder David A. Bednar, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught in the last General Conference,

"We more readily receive and recognize the Spirit of the Lord as we appropriately invite Him into our lives. We cannot compel, coerce, or command the Holy Ghost. Rather, we should invite Him into our lives with the same gentleness and tenderness by which He entreats us (see D&C 42:14).     UAdd a Note 

"Our invitations for the companionship of the Holy Ghost occur in many ways: through the making and keeping of covenants; by praying sincerely as individuals and families; by searching the scriptures diligently; through strengthening appropriate relationships with family members and friends; by seeking after virtuous thoughts, actions, and language; and by worshipping in our homes, in the holy temple, and at church. Conversely, casualness about or the breaking of covenants and commitments, failing to pray and study the scriptures, and inappropriate thoughts, actions, and language cause the Spirit to withdraw from or to avoid us altogether."

As we do things things, and invite the Holy Ghost into our lives, we can be blessed with His guidance and comfort.  I know this is true, because I've seen it in my own life.  During times when I have felt lost and confused, as I turn to God in prayer and scripture study, I have felt His love and the guidance of the Holy Ghost.

How has the Holy Ghost helped you in your conversion?