And They Knew It Not – 3 Nephi 9:20

How many people have been “baptized by fire and with the Holy Ghost” without recognizing it? I think it is a very common occurrence. Why? Because the Spirit speaks directly to our mind and to our heart (D&C 8:1-2). When we experience something with our natural senses, it’s easy to share and discuss that experience with others. How often do we say, “Look at this,” or “Do you hear that?” But when the Spirit touches your mind and your heart, we can’t directly point others’ minds and hearts to the same experience. And so we are left to learn for ourselves how the Holy Ghost communicates with us. Hearing the testimony of others is helpful and can trigger a recognition of our own thoughts and feelings. But ultimately, we have to learn for ourselves how to recognize those quiet promptings of the Spirit.
Richard G. Scott provided the following words of encouragement:

Have patience as you are perfecting your ability to be led by the Spirit. By careful practice, through the application of correct principles, and by being sensitive to the feelings that come, you will gain spiritual guidance. I bear witness that the Lord, through the Holy Ghost, can speak to your mind and heart….
I testify that you can personally learn to master the principles of being guided by the Spirit. That way, the Savior can guide you to resolve challenges of life and enjoy great peace and happiness (“To Acquire Spiritual Guidance,” General Conference, october 2009).

Today, I will pay attention to my thoughts and feelings in order to continue my process of learning to recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost in my life.