The Holy Spirit, how to listen, what does it feel like when it whispers us the answers we are looking for.

The Holy Spirit, how to listen, what does it feel like when it whispers us the answers we are looking for.

When I first became a member of the Church, I knew nothing about the Holy Spirit. To me, it was just an invisible being watching over you to see if you were doing something bad and would "snitch" to God. On the flip side, it would also help you out if you were in need. You prayed and asked for God’s help, and you would receive it through the Spirit.

At the age of 18, I was baptized into the LDS Church. One year later, I went on a mission for the Church. It was so very intimidating... Here I was, a 19-year-old kid who knew very little about religion and didn't have even a fraction of the knowledge that these Utah Elders, raised in the Church, had. I was still in the process of learning and felt inferior compared to these other missionaries.

One month after arriving, I went to a mission conference where I got to hear our mission president speak. During his talk, something strange started to happen to me. Everything he said made sense. I felt as though he was telling me the truth, and I felt happy... but then I started feeling a burning sensation in my chest and became anxious because I didn't know what was happening to me. I thought I was going to pass out. My companion asked what was wrong, and I told him I didn’t know. I wasn’t sure if I had a headache and needed a pill or if I was having a heart attack. I couldn’t understand what I was feeling. We went out into the hallway, and the feeling went away. By that time, other Elders came to see what was going on. I told them what I was experiencing. One of them asked, "Were you feeling a burning sensation in your chest while the President was speaking?" I said, "Yes." He said, "Elder, you just experienced the Holy Spirit testifying to you that what he was speaking about is true."

In the mission field, feeling the Holy Ghost is different from how "normal people" experience it in everyday life. As a missionary, you dedicate two years to God—preaching, studying, testifying, and praying constantly—so the Spirit is right there by your side. In normal life, there are so many distractions that it can be hard to hear or feel the Holy Ghost. Elder Faust spoke about this in a talk, so I will quote from it:

“Give ear to the voice of the living God.”1 The voice of the Spirit is available to all. The Lord said, “The Spirit enlighteneth every man [and every woman] … that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.” In other words, we ALL have the capability and the blessing of hearing the Holy Ghost. We can all receive instructions or guidance from Him, but we need to be diligent in seeking this companion.

He further says: But we hear other voices. Paul said, “There are … so many kinds of voices in the world”8 that compete with the voice of the Spirit. The Spirit’s voice is ever present, but it is calm.

But this part really opened my eyes:

The adversary tries to smother this voice (the Holy Spirit's voice) with a multitude of loud, persistent, persuasive, and appealing voices:

Here is my explanation of each, with a few insights of my own:

Murmuring voices that conjure up perceived injustices.

For example, you’re at work, and a coworker gets recognized by the boss for a project you also worked on. In your mind, you start thinking, “That’s not fair. I did just as much, maybe more. My efforts are always overlooked. Maybe the boss just likes them better. Why didn’t they do that with me, too?” Even though no one intentionally wronged you, those murmuring voices in your head start to conjure up a perceived injustice, so you get hurt and start building resentment.

Whining voices that abhor challenge and work.

When we whine instead of acting. When something seems too challenging or time-consuming, we find excuses not to do it. We may think, "Other people are just smarter. Why should I even bother? I’m not as smart." Satan makes us feel that we don’t have the capacity to succeed. But if we don’t listen to this whining voice, it opens our mindset to growth, experience, success, and confidence—showing us that we can tackle anything, no matter how hard or time-consuming it seems.

Our attitude should be: "It’s tough, but I can handle it, little by little. And I can ask for help if I need it."

Seductive voices that offer sensual enticements.

This one could be anything from pornography, to Hollywood trying to set a fashion trend that portrays women as needing to dress in overly revealing ways, to alcohol consumption, drugs, promiscuity, or having several sexual partners. The justifications we might hear are, “It’s harmless. I’m not hurting anyone. Everyone does it. It’s normal.”

Our attitude should be: “I know where this path leads, and I want better for myself. This moment doesn’t define me, but my choices do.”

Soothing voices that lull us into carnal security.

This one was a big one for me. When we’ve been in the Church long enough that we think we know a lot and don’t need to worry about our spiritual growth, we become complacent. For example: "I’ve been good today. I don’t need to pray. I’ll go to church next week; God knows I’m tired. I’ve already repented from this; I don’t need to repent again."

Our attitude should be: “Just because I feel fine spiritually doesn’t mean I shouldn’t seek the Spirit. I need to nourish my spirit, even when things are going well in my life.”

Intellectual voices that profess sophistication and superiority.

This could come from the media or from really smart people—scientists, for example—who might say that believing in God is naïve or for people who are not as intelligent.

Proud voices that rely on the arm of flesh.

These are thoughts we might have that tell us we do not need God. “I can rely on myself, on my own knowledge. I don’t need to pray to God; I’ve got this. I built my success; God didn’t do it for me.”

Flattering voices that puff us up with pride.

These are voices that inflate our egos, making us feel that we are better than others—more talented, more righteous, or more important.

Cynical voices that destroy hope.

These are the voices that make us think things won’t ever get better. They try to crush our faith and discourage us from even trying to get closer to God. “Things will never change for me. God helps other people, not me.”

Entertaining voices that promote pleasure seeking.

This one influences all of us, and sometimes we don’t even realize it. Certain types of music with very sexually explicit lyrics or suggestive images, things that promote feeling good or having fun regardless of the consequences—like they say, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas."

We may hear: “You only live once. Live in the moment. You’re missing out.”

Commercial voices that tempt us to “spend money for that which is of no worth, [and our] labor for that which cannot satisfy.”10

This one is self-explanatory. I need the next iPhone, the newer car, or the latest clothes. We spend money on these things, and in the end, we still feel empty inside.

Delirious voices that spawn the desire for a “high.”

I’m not referring to a drug- or alcohol-induced high, but to the pursuit of dangerous, death-defying experiences just for the thrill. Life, even our own, is so precious that we are accountable to the Lord for it, and we should not trifle with it. Once gone, it cannot be called back.

Another thing we should be aware of is what we call a "gut feeling." Gut feelings are intuitions, perceptions, or judgments based on our reasoning, and they are usually influenced by emotions or personal experiences we've had in the past. Sometimes we can be right about our gut feelings, leading to positive outcomes by going with that feeling. But gut feelings can also lead us away from what is true due to incomplete information or because our past experiences cloud our judgment.

This is why seeking the guidance of the Spirit is our best source. The Spirit will always make us feel what is true and comes from Heavenly Father. It will make us feel peace, love, reassurance, and calmness. If something is not of God, it will make us feel rejected, disoriented spiritually, uncertain, or unsettled.

How to distinguish the Holy Spirit from gut feelings:

Gut feelings are usually based on emotions, memories of hurt, or past experiences. The Spirit speaks to us through small, gentle promptings—whispering to our mind and heart, filling us with a warm feeling a feeling of closeness and even of love.

To finish, the Holy Ghost is what God has given us to help guide us to the truth. It testifies of the Father and the Son, comforts us, and sanctifies our souls. We can all have this companion, but we must strive to be close to it by reading the scriptures, praying, living a life of service, working on developing Christlike attributes, being grateful for our blessings, going to church, fasting, and repenting regularly. Remember, when asking God for inspiration through the Spirit, we need to be still and listen. We lead busy lives, but to hear the Spirit, we need to slow down and focus our attention, tuning out the other noises of the world.

Waiting around. Theres good wait and bad wait...which one are we doing?

Stop Waiting—Start Creating with God

Many people today find themselves stuck in a passive state—waiting.
Waiting for circumstances to change.
Waiting for someone to notice them.
Waiting for a miracle to fall into their laps.
Waiting for a sign that it’s time to move forward.

At first glance, waiting seems harmless. But spiritually, it can lower our vibration, diminish our faith, and distance us from the divine creative power that God has placed within each of us.

When we are endlessly waiting—waiting for a text, a promotion, validation, or even for a soulmate to arrive—we place ourselves in the position of the effect rather than the cause. We hand over our agency, a sacred gift from God, to forces outside of ourselves.

But in the gospel of Jesus Christ, we are taught that we are to act and not be acted upon.
As the Book of Mormon teaches:

“...men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life... or to choose captivity and death” (2 Nephi 2:27).

We were not created to sit still. We are meant to mirror the Creator—to be creators ourselves!
God is the ultimate First Cause. His work is one of continual creation, movement, and life:

“For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).

Creation does not sit stagnant like a swamp; it flows, grows, and moves forward like a living river.
When we wait idly—hoping someone else will complete us or open the door for us—we resist our divine nature.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf beautifully taught:

“You are sons and daughters of the greatest, most glorious Being in the universe. He loves you with a perfect love... You are no ordinary beings. You are glorious and eternal.”

Because of that truth, we must choose today to partner with God in creating the life we are destined for.
Faith is a principle of action and power, not of passive waiting.
As the Prophet Joseph Smith taught:

“Faith is the moving cause of all action” (Lectures on Faith 1:10).

There are, of course, moments when the Spirit prompts us to wait, but that kind of waiting is different:
It is an active waiting—a deliberate, faithful patience while we prepare ourselves and act in wisdom, not fear.
Waiting in fear, doubt, or dependency is not faith.
Waiting in faith, preparation, and trust in the Lord is powerful and creative.

When we shift from waiting to creating, miracles are drawn to us.
As Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said:

“Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don’t come until heaven; but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come.”

Today, declare with faith:

"I am the cause, with God, of my life. I release the energy of passive waiting and step into the power of divine creation. Miracles flow into my life as I listen to the whisperings of the Spirit and take consistent steps toward the vision God has planted in my heart."

Move forward with trust in God's timing, but don't stay still.
You are not waiting for life to happen—you are co-creating it with God.

I got the idea from this post that really shook me to my core:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DI9A5epJyqy/?igsh=bXoxNWdxMjR4djA3

                                                TRANSLATED TO SPANISH
                                                TRADUCCION EN ESPANOL

Deja de Esperar—Comienza a Crear con Dios

Hoy en día, muchas personas se encuentran estancadas en un estado pasivo—esperando.
Esperando a que cambien las circunstancias.
Esperando a que alguien las note.
Esperando que un milagro caiga en sus manos.
Esperando una señal de que es el momento de avanzar.

A primera vista, esperar parece inofensivo. Pero espiritualmente, puede bajar nuestra vibración, disminuir nuestra fe y alejarnos del poder creativo divino que Dios ha puesto dentro de cada uno de nosotros.

Cuando estamos esperando interminablemente—esperando un mensaje, una promoción, validación, o incluso la llegada de un alma gemela—nos ponemos en la posición del efecto, en lugar de la causa. Entregamos nuestra agencia, un regalo sagrado de Dios, a fuerzas fuera de nosotros mismos.

Pero en el evangelio de Jesucristo, se nos enseña que debemos actuar y no ser actuados.
Como enseña el Libro de Mormón:

“...los hombres son libres según la carne; y todas las cosas les son dadas que son convenientes para el hombre. Y son libres para escoger la libertad y la vida eterna... o para escoger la cautividad y la muerte” (2 Nefi 2:27).

No fuimos creados para quedarnos quietos. ¡Estamos destinados a reflejar al Creador—¡a ser creadores nosotros mismos!
Dios es la causa primera última. Su obra es una de continua creación, movimiento y vida:

“Porque he aquí, esta es mi obra y mi gloria—el traer a pase la inmortalidad y la vida eterna del hombre” (Moisés 1:39).

La creación no se queda estancada como un pantano; fluye, crece y avanza como un río vivo.
Cuando esperamos de manera ociosa—esperando que otra persona nos complete o nos abra la puerta—resistimos nuestra naturaleza divina.

El presidente Dieter F. Uchtdorf enseñó bellamente:

“Ustedes son hijos e hijas del Ser más grande y glorioso del universo. Él los ama con un amor perfecto... Ustedes no son seres ordinarios. Son gloriosos y eternos.”

Debido a esa verdad, debemos elegir hoy asociarnos con Dios en la creación de la vida para la cual estamos destinados.
La fe es un principio de acción y poder, no de espera pasiva.
Como enseñó el profeta José Smith:

“La fe es la causa que mueve toda acción” (Lectures on Faith 1:10).

Por supuesto, hay momentos en los que el Espíritu nos inspira a esperar, pero ese tipo de espera es diferente:
Es una espera activa—una paciencia deliberada y fiel mientras nos preparamos y actuamos con sabiduría, no con miedo.
Esperar en miedo, duda o dependencia no es fe.
Esperar en fe, preparación y confianza en el Señor es poderoso y creativo.

Cuando cambiamos de esperar a crear, los milagros se sienten atraídos hacia nosotros.
Como dijo el élder Jeffrey R. Holland:

“Algunas bendiciones llegan pronto, otras llegan tarde, y algunas no llegan hasta el cielo; pero para aquellos que abrazan el evangelio de Jesucristo, llegan.”

Hoy, declara con fe:

“Soy la causa, junto con Dios, de mi vida. Libero la energía de la espera pasiva y entro en el poder de la creación divina. Los milagros fluyen en mi vida mientras escucho los susurros del Espíritu y doy pasos constantes hacia la visión que Dios ha plantado en mi corazón.”

Avanza con confianza en el tiempo de Dios, pero no te quedes quieto.
No estás esperando que la vida suceda—la estás co-creando con Dios.

The Millennium Falcon and the Power of Light: A Reflection on Our Responsibility to Shine

Stake Fireside      4/27

The Millennium Falcon and the Power of Light: A Reflection on Our Responsibility to Shine

The talk I heard recently wasn’t really about vending machines—it was about how we, as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, can be a light to the world.

The speaker shared a powerful analogy. During a blackout in their home, the family tried to navigate through the darkness using glowsticks. These small lights barely illuminated enough to see if someone was directly in front of them. They offered only a foot or two of vision—just enough to not trip, but not enough to feel safe or connected.

Then, one of her sons brought out a toy: the Millennium Falcon. When he turned it on, its rear "engines"—bright LEDs—lit up the entire room. Suddenly, everyone could see clearly. The darkness didn’t vanish, but the powerful light made it manageable and safe.

That image struck me deeply.

As I listened, I felt sadness stir in my heart. I realized that although I know I’m supposed to be a light to others, I haven’t always been. My light had dimmed. And in that dimness, I failed someone I deeply loved and cared about—and someone new to the gospel. I had hoped she would grow spiritually out of her own desire, that she would find her path independently. But I now see that I could have been the light to help her find hers.

I thought it was solely her responsibility to keep her testimony burning. And in a way, it was. But I also now understand that it was also mine.

As disciples of Christ, we are not called to simply hold our lights; we are called to share them. As the Savior taught, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 5:14). Our light is not just for ourselves—it is meant to guide, inspire, and uplift others, especially those who are new or struggling.

I thought of the Parable of the Ten Virgins. I used to assume the wise virgins hoarded their oil. But maybe some of them had once shared. Maybe they encouraged each other along the way. Maybe they helped one another gather oil when there was still time. And maybe, just maybe, I could have done that too.

President Thomas S. Monson once said:
"We are the Lord’s hands here upon the earth, with the mandate to serve and to lift His children. He is dependent upon each of us."

Looking back, I see where I fell short. But I also see where I can change and do better.

The Millennium Falcon lit the room not because it tried harder—but because it was designed to shine. So are we. Even if your light is small today, choose to turn it on. Choose to let it grow. Someone nearby may be stumbling in the dark, and your light might be the one that helps them see clearly.

    

                                                                TRANSLATED TO SPANISH

                                                                TRADUCIDO AL ESPANOL                    

Devocional de Estaca – 27 de abril
El Halcón Milenario y el Poder de la Luz: Una Reflexión sobre Nuestra Responsabilidad de Brillar

La charla que escuché recientemente no era realmente sobre máquinas expendedoras; era sobre cómo nosotros, como miembros de La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días, podemos ser una luz para el mundo.

El orador compartió una analogía poderosa. Durante un apagón en su casa, la familia trató de moverse en la oscuridad usando varitas luminosas. Estas pequeñas luces apenas iluminaban lo suficiente para ver si alguien estaba justo enfrente. Ofrecían solo uno o dos pies de visión: lo suficiente para no tropezar, pero no para sentirse seguros ni conectados.

Entonces, uno de sus hijos sacó un juguete: el Halcón Milenario. Cuando lo encendió, los “motores” traseros—luces LED brillantes—iluminaron toda la habitación. De repente, todos podían ver con claridad. La oscuridad no desapareció, pero la luz poderosa la hizo manejable y segura.

Esa imagen me impactó profundamente.

Mientras escuchaba, sentí tristeza en mi corazón. Me di cuenta de que, aunque sé que se supone que debo ser una luz para los demás, no siempre lo he sido. Mi luz se había apagado un poco. Y en esa penumbra, fallé a alguien que me importaba—una persona nueva en el evangelio. Esperaba que ella creciera espiritualmente por su propio deseo, que encontrara su camino de forma independiente. Pero ahora veo que yo pude haber sido la luz que la ayudara a encontrarlo.

Pensé que era completamente su responsabilidad mantener su testimonio encendido. Y en cierto modo, lo es. Pero ahora entiendo que también es mi responsabilidad.

Como discípulos de Cristo, no estamos llamados solo a sostener nuestras luces; estamos llamados a compartirlas. Como enseñó el Salvador: “Vosotros sois la luz del mundo; una ciudad asentada sobre un monte no se puede esconder” (Mateo 5:14). Nuestra luz no es solo para nosotros; está destinada a guiar, inspirar y elevar a otros, especialmente a quienes son nuevos o están pasando por dificultades.

Pensé en la Parábola de las Diez Vírgenes. Antes asumía que las vírgenes prudentes simplemente habían guardado su aceite. Pero tal vez alguna vez lo compartieron. Tal vez se animaban entre sí en el camino. Tal vez se ayudaron unas a otras a reunir aceite cuando aún había tiempo. Y tal vez, solo tal vez, yo también pude haber hecho eso.

El presidente Thomas S. Monson dijo una vez:
“Somos las manos del Señor aquí en la tierra, con el mandato de servir y elevar a Sus hijos. Él depende de cada uno de nosotros.”

Al mirar hacia atrás, veo dónde me quedé corto. Pero también veo dónde puedo comenzar de nuevo.

El Halcón Milenario iluminó la habitación no porque se esforzara más, sino porque fue diseñado para brillar. Nosotros también. Incluso si tu luz hoy es pequeña, elige encenderla. Elige dejar que crezca. Puede que alguien cerca de ti esté tropezando en la oscuridad, y tu luz podría ser la que le ayude a ver con claridad.

Guarding the Constant Companionship of the Spirit

Guarding the Constant Companionship of the Spirit

 How easy it is to lose the guidance and company of the Holy Spirit? Learning the contrast between the joy we feel when close to God, and the emptiness when we allow temptation to distance us from Him.

The Gift of the Holy Ghost

After baptism, we are given one of the greatest gifts: the gift of the Holy Ghost. Elder David A. Bednar said:

"The Holy Ghost is a sanctifier who helps us become clean and pure and prepares us to return to the presence of God." (April 2006, That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us)

The Holy Ghost warns, comforts, and testifies. When we are living worthily, the Spirit can be a constant companion.

But how easy it is to lose that companionship!
President James E. Faust warned:

"The Spirit cannot dwell in an unholy or unclean tabernacle." (October 2000, The Gift of the Holy Ghost—A Sure Compass)

The Feelings of Being Close to God

When we are close to God, we feel peace, clarity, and love. As Paul taught:

"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance." (Galatians 5:22–23)

We feel grounded. We have strength to resist temptation. We are more forgiving, more patient, more hopeful.

Nephi expressed it beautifully when he said:

"My soul delighteth in the things of the Lord; and my heart pondereth continually upon the things which I have seen and heard." (2 Nephi 4:16)

The Feelings When We Distance Ourselves

In contrast, when we sin, even in small ways, the Spirit withdraws. We begin to feel confusion, anger, irritation, despair, and loneliness. Moroni reminds us:

"And if ye have no hope ye must needs be in despair; and despair cometh because of iniquity." (Moroni 10:22)

Satan doesn’t usually tempt us with obvious, immediate rebellion. Instead, he works slowly, incrementally.

In The Screwtape Letters, C.S. Lewis has a senior devil explain:

"Indeed the safest road to hell is the gradual one—the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts."

Small sins, little compromises, justifications—this is how Satan works. He numbs our conscience little by little until, as Alma warned:

"The devil cheateth their souls, and leadeth them away carefully down to hell." (2 Nephi 28:21)

Notice that word—carefully.
Satan is strategic. He knows that if he can just get us to lower our guard slightly, the Spirit will start to withdraw. We won't even notice it at first.

Modern Examples of Gradual Temptation

Consider how easy it is to justify small things:

• Skipping prayer one night because we’re tired.
• Rationalizing a little dishonesty.
• Becoming casual with the Sabbath.

Each small act pushes the Spirit a little farther away.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught:

"You cannot afford to be casual about your obedience." (April 2017, Be Ye Therefore Perfect—Eventually)

How to Keep the Spirit Close

So how do we avoid this slow drift? 

Daily prayer and scripture study. President Russell M. Nelson said:

"In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost." (April 2018, Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives)

Quick repentance. The sooner we recognize and correct small sins, the sooner we invite the Spirit back.

Partaking of the sacrament with real intent.

The sacrament prayers promise us "that they may always have his Spirit to be with them." (Moroni 4-5

Choosing environments that invite the Spirit. Music, entertainment, conversations, and friendships all either invite the Spirit—or drive it awatSatan will try to lure us quietly and softly away from God. But we have been given the tools to remain spiritually awake.

As C.S. Lewis wrote:

"The prayers offered in the state of dryness are those which please Him best."
Even when we feel dry or distant, our small acts of faith keep the Holy Spirit with us.

Let us be vigilant. Let us choose light daily, and fiercely protect the companionship of the Holy Ghost, for truly, there is no greater blessing on this side of eternity.

                                                                TRANSLATED TO SPANISH
                                                                TRADUCIDO AL ESPANOL                    

Guardando la Compañía Constante del Espíritu

¿Qué tan fácil es perder la guía y la compañía del Espíritu Santo? Aprendemos a distinguir entre el gozo que sentimos al estar cerca de Dios y el vacío que sentimos cuando permitimos que la tentación nos aleje de Él.

El Don del Espíritu Santo

Después del bautismo, se nos concede uno de los dones más grandes: el don del Espíritu Santo. El élder David A. Bednar dijo:

"El Espíritu Santo es un santificador que nos ayuda a ser limpios y puros y nos prepara para regresar a la presencia de Dios."
(abril de 2006, Para que siempre tengamos Su Espíritu con nosotros)

El Espíritu Santo advierte, consuela y testifica. Cuando vivimos dignamente, el Espíritu puede ser un compañero constante.

¡Pero qué fácil es perder esa compañía!
El presidente James E. Faust advirtió:

"El Espíritu no puede morar en un tabernáculo impuro o inmundo."
(octubre de 2000, El Don del Espíritu Santo: una brújula segura)

Los Sentimientos de Estar Cerca de Dios

Cuando estamos cerca de Dios, sentimos paz, claridad y amor. Como enseñó Pablo:

"El fruto del Espíritu es amor, gozo, paz, paciencia, benignidad, bondad, fe, mansedumbre, templanza."
(Gálatas 5:22–23)

Nos sentimos firmes. Tenemos fuerza para resistir la tentación. Somos más comprensivos, más pacientes, más esperanzados.

Nefi lo expresó hermosamente cuando dijo:

"Mi alma se deleita en las cosas del Señor, y mi corazón medita continuamente en las cosas que he visto y oído."
(2 Nefi 4:16)

Los Sentimientos Cuando Nos Alejamos

En contraste, cuando pecamos, incluso en cosas pequeñas, el Espíritu se retira. Empezamos a sentir confusión, enojo, irritación, desesperación y soledad. Moroni nos recuerda:

"Y si no tenéis esperanza, es necesario que estéis en desesperación; y la desesperación viene a causa de la iniquidad."
(Moroni 10:22)

Satanás usualmente no nos tienta con una rebelión obvia o inmediata. En cambio, trabaja lentamente, poco a poco.

En Cartas del diablo a su sobrino, C.S. Lewis hace que un demonio mayor explique:

"De hecho, el camino más seguro al infierno es el gradual: la pendiente suave, el suelo blando, sin giros repentinos, sin hitos, sin señales."

Pecados pequeños, pequeñas concesiones, justificaciones: así trabaja Satanás. Adormece nuestra conciencia poco a poco hasta que, como advirtió Alma:

"El diablo engaña sus almas y los conduce cuidadosamente al infierno."
(2 Nefi 28:21)

Observa esa palabra: cuidadosamente.
Satanás es estratégico. Sabe que si logra que bajemos un poco la guardia, el Espíritu comenzará a retirarse. Al principio, ni siquiera lo notaremos.

Ejemplos Modernos de Tentación Gradual

Considera lo fácil que es justificar pequeñas cosas:

• Saltarnos la oración una noche porque estamos cansados.

• Racionalizar una pequeña deshonestidad.

• Ser casuales con el día de reposo.

Cada acto pequeño aleja un poco más al Espíritu.

El élder Jeffrey R. Holland enseñó:

"No pueden darse el lujo de ser casuales con su obediencia."
(abril de 2017, Sed, pues, vosotros perfectos—eventualmente)

Cómo Mantener al Espíritu Cerca

Entonces, ¿cómo evitamos este alejamiento lento?

• Oración diaria y estudio de las Escrituras. El presidente Russell M. Nelson dijo:

"En los días venideros, no será posible sobrevivir espiritualmente sin la guía, la dirección, el consuelo y la influencia constante del Espíritu Santo."
(abril de 2018, Revelación para la Iglesia, revelación para nuestra vida)

• Arrepentimiento rápido. Cuanto antes reconozcamos y corrijamos los pecados pequeños, más pronto invitamos al Espíritu de regreso.

• Participar de la Santa Cena con verdadera intención.
  Las oraciones sacramentales nos prometen: “para que siempre tengan su Espíritu consigo.”
  (Moroni 4–5)

• Elegir ambientes que inviten al Espíritu. La música, el entretenimiento, las conversaciones y las amistades o invitan al Espíritu... o lo alejan.

Satanás tratará de alejarnos de Dios en silencio y con sutileza. Pero se nos han dado las herramientas para mantenernos espiritualmente despiertos.

Como escribió C.S. Lewis:

"Las oraciones ofrecidas en tiempos de sequedad son las que más le agradan a Él."

Aun cuando nos sintamos secos o distantes, nuestros pequeños actos de fe mantienen al Espíritu Santo con nosotros.

Seamos vigilantes. Escojamos la luz cada día y protejamos con firmeza la compañía del Espíritu Santo, porque en verdad, no hay bendición más grande de este lado de la eternidad.

Spiritually casual? ....Casualmente espiritual?

These commentaries and scriptures reminded me of something President Russell M. Nelson once said:

“Brothers and sisters, we cannot afford to live spiritually casual lives in spiritually dangerous times.”

Let that sink in for a moment... We cannot afford to live spiritually casual lives in spiritually dangerous times.

Let’s break this down a little. What does "casual" mean?

• Occurring by chance – something unplanned, unexpected

• Occasional – happening irregularly

• Informal or relaxed – pertaining to a nonchalant attitude or setting

• Lacking serious intent – done without deep commitment

This was truly an eye-opener for me.
Do I casually pray?
Only when I remember? Once a day? Once a week? Only when I’m hurting or need something good to happen?

Do I casually go to church?
Only when there’s no game I want to watch? Only when I’m going through a rough patch or a trial? Do I go just to show my face because it’s been a few weeks?

What else do I do spiritually casual?

President Henry B. Eyring once warned:

“Casual prayer won’t be enough. Reading a few verses of scripture won’t be enough. Doing the minimum won't be enough.”

The devil doesn’t need us to rebel—he just needs us to get distracted.
To drift... to become spiritually sleepy.

He won’t say, “Don’t go to church.”
But he might whisper, “It’s boring. You can leave after the first hour.”
He’ll say, “You prayed this morning, skip tonight,” or get you doom-scrolling until you're too tired to read your scriptures.

The danger of a casual life isn’t always in the big sins—it’s in the slow disconnection.
It’s in how quietly we start to feel empty.
How easily we skip things we once loved.
How gradually our spiritual senses become dull.

And by the time the storm hits, it’s too late to build the foundation.

It never ceases to amaze me how we’ll spend countless hours working on our careers, binge-watching shows, playing video games, or doing things with no lasting purpose—yet we say we don’t have time for God.
No time to read even one uplifting article or scripture.
Too tired to pray.

But spiritual preparation doesn’t have to be dramatic or time-consuming.

Think of the parable of the bridegroom in Matthew 25.
The five wise virgins didn’t fill their lamps all at once.
It was a daily effort—a little at a time.

This is how we prepare spiritually:
One drop at a time.
One scripture.
One prayer.
One act of service.
One church meeting.

Little by little, we fill our lamps for the moment when we’ll truly need them.

And remember—this is our responsibility.
We cannot rely on the light or testimony of others.
We have to do our part in case we’re ever standing alone.

President Spencer W. Kimball once taught:

“The ten virgins represent the people of the Church, not the rank outsiders, and all ten believed in the gospel. Five of them were unprepared and missed the wedding feast.”

The message of this analogy  was meant for us as members of the church..10 of us will have lamps but because we did nothing or not enough we will not be able to be side by side with our Savior.

I have many friends who served in the military.
Some have been in life-or-death situations where they had to react instantly to save their own lives or others’.

How do they stay calm? How do they react by instinct?
Daily training.
They focus.
They learn.
They prepare so consistently that it becomes second nature—even long after their service ends.

That’s what we need.
Daily preparation.
So that when spiritual trials come, our instincts kick in.
We don’t even consider temptation.
We don’t even glance down the wrong path.

Before our Savior returns, will we be ready for the spiritual and physical trials ahead?
Will our lamps be full?
Will we stand on our own spiritual strength?
Or will we be caught unprepared, walking the easier path—the one that leads away from God?

                                                TRANSLATED TO SPANISH
                                                TRADUCCION EN ESPANOL

Estos comentarios y escrituras me recordaron algo que dijo una vez el presidente Russell M. Nelson:

“Hermanos y hermanas, no podemos darnos el lujo de vivir vidas espirituales casuales en tiempos espiritualmente peligrosos”.

Déjenlo resonar un momento… No podemos darnos el lujo de vivir vidas espirituales casuales en tiempos espiritualmente peligrosos.

Desglosemos un poco esto. ¿Qué significa “casual”?

Ocurre por casualidad – algo no planeado, inesperado
Ocasional – que pasa de vez en cuando
Informal o relajado – con una actitud despreocupada o sin seriedad
Falta de intención seria – hecho sin un compromiso profundo

Esto fue una verdadera llamada de atención para mí.
¿Hago mis oraciones de manera casual?
¿Solo cuando me acuerdo? ¿Una vez al día? ¿Una vez a la semana? ¿Solo cuando estoy sufriendo o necesito que algo bueno pase?

¿Voy a la Iglesia de manera casual?
¿Solo cuando no hay un partido que quiero ver? ¿Solo cuando estoy pasando por una prueba o un momento difícil? ¿Voy solo para que me vean porque ya pasaron varias semanas?

¿Qué otras cosas hago de forma espiritual casual?

El presidente Henry B. Eyring una vez advirtió:

“La oración casual no será suficiente. Leer unos cuantos versículos de las escrituras no será suficiente. Hacer lo mínimo no será suficiente”.

El diablo no necesita que nos rebelemos—solo necesita que nos distraigamos.
Que nos dejemos llevar… que nos durmamos espiritualmente.

Él no dirá: “No vayas a la Iglesia”.
Pero quizás susurre: “Está aburrido. Te puedes ir después de la primera hora”.
Dirá: “Ya oraste en la mañana, omite la de la noche”, o te tendrá viendo contenido sin fin hasta que estés demasiado cansado para leer las escrituras.

El peligro de una vida espiritual casual no siempre está en los pecados grandes—está en la desconexión lenta.
Está en cómo, poco a poco, empezamos a sentirnos vacíos.
En lo fácil que es dejar de hacer lo que antes amábamos.
En cómo, sin darnos cuenta, se apagan nuestros sentidos espirituales.

Y para cuando llegue la tormenta, ya es demasiado tarde para construir el cimiento.

Nunca deja de sorprenderme cuánto tiempo dedicamos a nuestras carreras, a ver series sin parar, a jugar videojuegos, o a hacer cosas sin un propósito eterno—y aún así decimos que no tenemos tiempo para Dios.
No hay tiempo para leer ni un artículo edificante o una escritura.
Demasiado cansados para orar.

Pero la preparación espiritual no tiene que ser dramática ni consumir tanto tiempo.

Piensa en la parábola del esposo en Mateo 25.
Las cinco vírgenes prudentes no llenaron sus lámparas de una sola vez.
Fue un esfuerzo diario—poco a poco.

Así es como nos preparamos espiritualmente:
Una gota a la vez.
Una escritura.
Una oración.
Un acto de servicio.
Una reunión en la Iglesia.

Poco a poco, llenamos nuestras lámparas para el momento en que realmente las necesitemos.

Y recuerda—esta es nuestra responsabilidad.
No podemos depender de la luz ni del testimonio de los demás.
Tenemos que hacer nuestra parte, por si algún día nos toca estar de pie, solos.

El presidente Spencer W. Kimball enseñó una vez:

“Las diez vírgenes representan al pueblo de la Iglesia, no a los de afuera, y las diez creían en el evangelio. Cinco de ellas no estaban preparadas y se perdieron la fiesta de bodas”.

El mensaje de esta analogía fue para nosotros, los miembros de la Iglesia… Diez de nosotros tendremos lámparas, pero si no hacemos nada o no hacemos lo suficiente, no podremos estar al lado de nuestro Salvador.

Tengo muchos amigos que sirvieron en el ejército.
Algunos han estado en situaciones de vida o muerte, donde tuvieron que reaccionar al instante para salvar su vida o la de otros.

¿Cómo se mantienen tranquilos? ¿Cómo reaccionan por instinto?
Entrenamiento diario.
Se enfocan.
Aprenden.
Se preparan de forma tan constante que se vuelve algo natural—hasta mucho después de haber terminado su servicio.

Eso es lo que necesitamos nosotros.
Preparación diaria.
Para que cuando lleguen las pruebas espirituales, nuestros reflejos espirituales entren en acción.
Para que ni siquiera consideremos la tentación.
Para que ni siquiera miremos el camino incorrecto.

Antes de que regrese nuestro Salvador, ¿estaremos preparados para las pruebas espirituales y físicas que vienen?
¿Estarán llenas nuestras lámparas?
¿Estaremos firmes con nuestra propia fuerza espiritual?
¿O nos sorprenderá desprevenidos, caminando por el camino fácil—el que nos aleja de Dios?

The Book of Mormon..Why is it important to read and who invited us to read it

 How rare a posession...The Book of Mormon

This video starts at the end of the book of Mormon...The last days of Moroni, the Lamanites have been killing off the Nephites and Moroni is running from them so that he can fulfill his mission of placing the Book of Mormon in a place where Joseph Smith will once receive. 

https://youtu.be/EIhAsifEMFs?si=WREszvbssaBJGAC8

A Unique story of someone who found a burnt book without a cover...... Vincenzo di Francesca

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4imeYuNNik4

Ezra Taft Benson ..Flooding the Book of Mormon

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1988/10/flooding-the-earth-with-the-book-of-mormon?lang=eng

The time is long overdue for a massive flooding of the earth with the Book of Mormon for the many reasons which the Lord has given. In this age of the electronic media and the mass distribution of the printed word, God will hold us accountable if we do not now move the Book of Mormon in a monumental way.

We have the Book of Mormon, we have the members, we have the missionaries, we have the resources, and the world has the need. The time is now!

I challenge owners of cassette players to play Book of Mormon cassettes from time to time and to listen to them at home and while walking, jogging, or driving.

I challenge all of us to prayerfully consider steps that we can personally take to bring this new witness for Christ more fully into our own lives and into a world that so desperately needs it.

Thomas Monson  The power of the book of Mormon

This morning I speak about the power of the Book of Mormon and the critical need we have as members of this Church to study, ponder, and apply its teachings in our lives. The importance of having a firm and sure testimony of the Book of Mormon cannot be overstated

This morning I speak about the power of the Book of Mormon and the critical need we have as members of this Church to study, ponder, and apply its teachings in our lives. The importance of having a firm and sure testimony of the Book of Mormon cannot be overstated

Elder Holland

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2009/10/safety-for-the-soul?lang=eng

3352769

 Once upon a time there was a once a young tree planted in a quiet field. Each day, the gardener came by to water it and tend the soil, To anyone passing by, the tree looked like nothing special—just a small, fragile sprout.

As weeks passed, other plants nearby grew faster and taller. They basked in the sun, proud of their quick progress. The little tree, on the other hand, didn’t seem to change much. Its leaves stayed few, and its branches were thin. But what no one could see was that its roots were growing deep.

Then came the drought.

The ground cracked, the sun beat down, and the winds howled. One by one, the tall, shallow-rooted plants began to wither. But the little tree stood firm. While others had grown up, it had been growing down. Its roots had quietly dug deep, tapping into water far below the surface.

When the rain finally returned, the little tree was stronger than ever. It hadn’t just survived the storm—it had been prepared for it.

We often want spiritual growth to be fast and visible. But sometimes God asks us to grow in ways the world doesn’t see. Scripture study, sincere prayer, quiet obedience these are the deep roots that sustain us in the droughts and storms of life.

Growth takes time and it doesn't have look dramatic. If you're drawing closer to Christ daily, your roots are going deep. 

Elder Michael A. Dunn introduced an approach to personal growth and spiritual development: focusing on small, consistent improvements. 

He introduced a compelling approach to personal growth and spiritual development: focusing on small, consistent improvements.

This was based on inspiring story about the British cycling team's transformation under coach Sir Dave Brailsford. For over a century, the team had little success, with no British cyclist ever winning the Tour de France and only a single Olympic gold medal since 1908. ​

Brailsford introduced the concept of "the aggregation of marginal gains," focusing on making 1% improvements in every aspect of performance. This included optimizing equipment, training methods, nutrition, sleep quality, and even hygiene practices. For example, they tested different massage gels for faster muscle recovery, taught riders proper handwashing to reduce illness, and customized pillows and mattresses for better sleep. ​

These small, consistent enhancements led to remarkable results. Within five years, the British cycling team won 60% of the gold medals in track cycling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In 2012, they set nine Olympic and seven world records at the London Olympics. That same year, Bradley Wiggins became the first British cyclist to win the Tour de France, followed by Chris Froome's multiple victories in subsequent years. ​

Elder Dunn used this story to illustrate how small, consistent efforts in our spiritual lives—like daily prayer, scripture study, and acts of kindness—can lead to significant personal growth over time. He emphasized that, through the Savior's grace, even our modest efforts are magnified, leading to profound spiritual transformation.

I sometimes struggle with creating new habits but the way i started was remembering to pray at least before i went to bed, within the next few days I was doing it also when i woke up. I have this thing for researching topics so for my daily scripture i am using the We Believe app...this has led me to post on here daily additional stories or scriptures that has helped me have a more spiritual day...

What can you do to grow 1%? 

                                                                TRANSLATED TO SPANISH

                                                                TRADUCIDO AL ESPANOL                    

El élder Michael A. Dunn presentó un enfoque para el crecimiento personal y el desarrollo espiritual: enfocarse en mejoras pequeñas pero consistentes.

Compartió una historia inspiradora sobre la transformación del equipo de ciclismo británico bajo la dirección del entrenador Sir Dave Brailsford. Durante más de un siglo, el equipo tuvo poco éxito: ningún ciclista británico había ganado el Tour de Francia, y solo habían obtenido una medalla de oro olímpica desde 1908.

Brailsford introdujo el concepto de “la suma de pequeñas mejoras marginales”, que consistía en hacer mejoras del 1% en cada aspecto del rendimiento. Esto incluía optimizar el equipo, los métodos de entrenamiento, la nutrición, la calidad del sueño e incluso las prácticas de higiene. Por ejemplo, probaron diferentes geles de masaje para una recuperación muscular más rápida, enseñaron a los ciclistas a lavarse las manos correctamente para reducir enfermedades y personalizaron almohadas y colchones para mejorar el descanso.

Estas mejoras pequeñas y consistentes llevaron a resultados extraordinarios. En menos de cinco años, el equipo británico ganó el 60% de las medallas de oro en ciclismo de pista en los Juegos Olímpicos de Beijing 2008. En 2012, establecieron nueve récords olímpicos y siete récords mundiales en los Juegos de Londres. Ese mismo año, Bradley Wiggins se convirtió en el primer ciclista británico en ganar el Tour de Francia, seguido por múltiples victorias de Chris Froome en los años posteriores.

El élder Dunn usó esta historia para ilustrar cómo los esfuerzos pequeños y constantes en nuestra vida espiritual—como orar a diario, estudiar las Escrituras y realizar actos de bondad—pueden llevar a un crecimiento personal significativo con el tiempo. Enfatizó que, gracias a la gracia del Salvador, incluso nuestros esfuerzos más modestos son amplificados, lo que nos lleva a una profunda transformación espiritual.

A veces me cuesta crear nuevos hábitos, pero comencé recordando orar al menos antes de dormir; a los pocos días ya lo estaba haciendo también al despertar. Me encanta investigar temas, así que para mis escrituras diarias uso la app We Believe... esto me ha llevado a compartir aquí todos los días historias o escrituras adicionales que me han ayudado a tener un día más espiritual.

¿Qué puedes hacer tú para mejorar un 1%?

What if we chose the conditions into which we were born?

What if we deliberately chose the circumstances, the culture, and the family we were given—with all their traditions, wounds, and generational struggles?

What if we chose not to have an easy life, so we could be given the opportunity to discover the path… the gospel?

What if we selected this life because of the challenges we knew we would face—the heartbreaks, the pain of abandonment—not as punishment, but as tools for growth? What if we knew those very experiences would shape us, strengthen us, and stretch us toward our fullest potential?

What if we chose all of it to maximize our spiritual growth, to mold our character, and to prepare us for the people we are meant to become?

And what if Heavenly Father allowed us to choose… because He knew it was the best path for us?

"O how great the holiness of our God! For he knoweth all things, and there is not anything save he knows it."
— 2 Nephi 9:20

Nothing is by chance. He stands on the Balcony of Eternity, watching the parade of our lives. From that vantage point, He sees the beginning and the end.

What if all we need to do… is trust Him?
Trust that the timing of our trials is perfect.
Trust that each challenge is tailored for our growth.
Trust that every moment is part of something far greater than we can see.

I still remember my first week on my mission. My companion, Elder Saenz, asked me where I wanted to go knock on doors. As we walked down the street—its pavement still slick from a recent rainstorm—we passed a puddle where a little boy joyfully splashed in the mud. I instinctively shook my head and pointed down a cleaner sidewalk, but Elder Saenz stopped me.

“Don’t judge by what they look like,” he said gently. “Everyone needs to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Taking his advice to heart, we rang the doorbell of the nearest house. Two weeks later, twenty-two people from that very home were baptized. Three months after I left the area, they were still baptizing new friends and family who had been referred by that household.

It’s all too easy in this world to judge others by outward appearances—by race, wealth, geography, or upbringing—but judgment is always shortsighted. As members of the Church, we believe every person is a literal spiritual son or daughter of our Heavenly Father, which makes us all brothers and sisters. Society may divide us by success or social status, but at the end of our journey, none of that matters. We take with us only our good deeds and our memories, and above all, the love we’ve shared.

Todavía recuerdo mi primera semana en la misión. Mi compañero, el élder Sáenz, me preguntó a dónde quería ir a tocar puertas. Mientras caminábamos por la calle —el pavimento aún resbaloso por una reciente tormenta— pasamos junto a un charco donde un niño pequeño chapoteaba alegremente en el lodo. Instintivamente negué con la cabeza y señalé una banqueta más limpia, pero el élder Sáenz me detuvo.

“No juzgues por las apariencias,” me dijo con suavidad. “Todos necesitan escuchar el Evangelio de Jesucristo.”

Tomando su consejo en serio, tocamos el timbre de la casa más cercana. Dos semanas después, veintidós personas de ese mismo hogar se bautizaron. Tres meses después de que me fui del área, aún seguían bautizando a nuevos amigos y familiares referidos por esa familia.

Es muy fácil en este mundo juzgar a otros por las apariencias externas —por su raza, riqueza, lugar de origen o crianza—, pero el juicio siempre es limitado. Como miembros de la Iglesia, creemos que cada persona es un hijo o hija espiritual literal de nuestro Padre Celestial, lo que nos convierte en hermanos y hermanas. La sociedad puede dividirnos por el éxito o el estatus social, pero al final de nuestro camino, nada de eso importa. Solo nos llevamos nuestras buenas obras y nuestros recuerdos, y por encima de todo, el amor que hemos compartido.

¿Te gustaría que lo adapte a un tono más formal, informal o para una charla específica?

Daily  Spiritual Insights

Loved this...Having Confidence in approaching God, Having confidence that Heavenly Father hears us,

When  I pray do i believe he is there, that he is hearing my prayer? Do i have a conversation with Him as if i were talking to someone right next to me? Or do i pray just because i have to pray, repeat the same things every day? Is my mind thinking of other things as I pray, do i pray fast just to get it over with?

That he understands our needs better than we do.,

Many times we want things a certain way, we want things our way, We question why he doesnt give us what we want now or why it's taking too long or why we didnt get what we wanted. At times, maybe he allowed us what we wanted to show us that it was a dead end and we had to start all over or maybe even so that we can go through a hardship to learn from that decision.

Heavenly Father is all knowing, he is an eternal Now that sees past and present. He has things in place since preexistence. If we are patient even if it may take time we will get exactly what we need to grow and reach our full potential..patience is all we need to have.

A balcony vs. the parade route. Elder Dallin H. Oaks compares God’s vantage point to viewing a parade from a high balcony. We, standing curbside, see only one float at a time; He sees the beginning, middle, and end simultaneously. Trusting His decisions means believing the One with the fuller picture.

That he loves us more than we can comprehend

Sometimes we blame him for the situation that we are in and we think he doesnt love us, Sometimes we try do do what he asks of us and we still dont get what we want so we think he doesnt care..

The day when we understand that His eternal perspective compared to our limited, superficial narrow minded or selfish perspective We would change every aspect of our life, every decision even every thought.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught that “the first great commandment of all eternity is to love God with all our heart…, but the first great truth of all eternity is that God loves us with all of His heart.”

That he sends angels to be with us and with those we love

He yearns to help each of us reach our highest potential

President Nelson 
Repentance from the Greek New testament metanoia
Meta= change

Noia= Mind, knowledge spirit, breathe (love think serve, spend our time, love our wives, children, care for our bodies.

This should be a daily change..repentance should be daily. Doing and being a little better each day.
When we choose to repent we choose to change. We allow the savior to transform us into the best version of ourselves, we choose to grow spiritually and chose joy..we chose to be like Jesus Christ.

Identify what stands in the way or stops me of my repentance