Welcoming the Holy Ghost into our Homes

After giving a talk on the Gift of the Holy Ghost at a baptism, I was asked by a few in attendance to share my ideas and notes for use as a Family Home Evening lesson/ activity (link to the lesson/ activity is below).   While organizing and adding to the talk and handout, I was reviewing additional talks and scriptures and came across the talk “The Unspeakable Gift” given by Joseph B. Wirthlin at the April 2003 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,  There were a few quotes that were ideal to share:   

“ In the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord calls the gift of the Holy Ghost “the unspeakable gift.” It is the source of testimony and spiritual gifts. It enlightens minds, fills our souls with joy,⁷ teaches us all things, and brings forgotten knowledge to our remembrance. The Holy Ghost also “will show unto [us] all things what [we] should do.” 

“If [we] would open [our] hearts to the refining influence of this unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost, a glorious new spiritual dimension would come to light.” 

As we apply the scripture’s teachings, we see how the Holy Ghost can influence our lives, bring us closer to our Savior, bringing us to know Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and testify of truth.  We must be worthy to receive such a gift, we must prepare our minds, bodies, and spirits to be open to that influence.  But what of our surroundings?  Do our homes reflect that same personal attitude to be worthy of the spirit.  Is home a place that the Holy Ghost is welcome?  Have we prepared our homes mentally, physically, and spiritually to receive Him? 

“Brothers and sisters, do we turn away the still, small voice? Do we do things that offend the Holy Ghost? Do we allow influences into our homes that drive the Spirit from our homes? The type of entertainment that we permit into our homes will certainly have an impact on the power of the Holy Ghost. Much of the entertainment of the world is offensive to the Holy Ghost. Surely we should not watch movies or television shows that are filled with violence, vulgar language, and immorality.

I invite you to ponder individually in a humble and prayerful manner and ask yourself: “Do I have the Spirit in my life? Am I happy? Am I doing anything in my life that is offensive to the Spirit and preventing the Holy Ghost from being my constant companion?” Have the courage to repent, if needed, and again enjoy the companionship of the Holy Ghost.

Do we enjoy the influence of the Holy Ghost in our homes? Are we doing anything as a family that is offensive to the Spirit? Can we more effectively invite the Holy Ghost into our homes?”

“Our homes need to be more Christ-centered. We  should spend more time at the temple and less time in the pursuit of pleasure. We should lower the noise level in our homes so that the noise of the world will not overpower the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost. One of our greatest goals as parents should be to enjoy the power and influence of the Holy Ghost in our homes. We should pray and study the scriptures. We could sing the hymns of the Restoration to invite the Holy Ghost into our home. Regular family home evening will also help.” 

“The Unspeakable Gift” given by Joseph B. Wirthlin at the April 2003 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Download the Family Home Evening Lesson/ Activity here: http://www.scribd.com/doc/103621193/The-Gift-of-the-Holy-Ghost-Talk-Lesson-Activty-With-Handout