“Ghost” is an Old English word meaning “Spirit” therefore, the Holy Ghost is also referred to as the Spirit, Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Comforter and Revelator.

Who is the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit

According to the scriptures, the governing head of the universe is comprised of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost who are separate personages but one in unity and purpose and therefore also referred to as “God”.  All three were present when the Savior Jesus Christ was baptized, “And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”  (Mark 1: 10-11 in the Bible)

“ For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.”  (1 John 5:7 in the Bible)

When do we Receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost

The Gift of the Holy Ghost is given after baptism.  The apostle Peter said, “…be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”  (Acts 2: 38 in the Bible).  Another ancient prophet taught, “And also, the voice of the Son came unto me, saying: He that is baptized in my name, to him will the Father give the Holy Ghost…”  (2 Nephi 31: 12 in the Book of Mormon)

How is the Gift of the Holy Ghost Given to Us

The Gift of the Holy Ghost is given by the laying on of hands by one that has authority from the Savior. The apostles recorded, “Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8: 14-17 in the Bible) “When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.  And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.”  (Acts 19: 5-6 in the Bible)

There are Many Blessings of having the Influence of the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit in our Lives.

Comforter and Teacher

The Holy Ghost is a comforter.  He can lift burdens, give hope and teach truth.  The Savior said,

“ But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (John 14: 26 in the Bible)

Personal Inspiration and Revelation

Spiritual things can only be understood through the influence of the Spirit.  The apostle Paul said, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”  (1 Corinthians 2: 14 in the Bible)  “…and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Corinthians 12: 3 in the Bible)

Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.  Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation…”  (Doctrine & Covenants 8: 2-3)

Strengthen, Enlighten and Filled with Joy

Another of the key roles of the Holy Ghost in our lives is to strengthen us in time of need, enlighten our minds to understand the things of God and fill our soul with joy as we draw close God.  “Verily, verily, I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy;”  (Doctrine & Covenants 11: 13 p. 22)

The Gift of the Holy Ghost is one of the Greatest Gifts Given to the Sons and Daughters of God

The Savior  said, “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.”  (John 16: 7 in the Bible)