What Elder Gary E. Stevenson said at October 2023 general conference

Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles spoke during the Saturday afternoon session of October 2023 general conference. He gave four guiding principles to invite and recognize the promptings of the Spirit. The following is a summary of what he said.

Elder Stevenson’s talk summary

Latter-day Saints should be gifted, covenant-keeping people. Each one should seek to exercise spiritual gifts and then invite and learn to recognize promptings of the Spirit. Four guiding principles to assist in this spiritual endeavor are: 

  • Stand in holy places. 
  • Stand with holy people. 
  • Testify of holy truths. 
  • Listen to the Holy Spirit. 
  • Holy places include temples, homes, meetinghouses, seminary buildings and institutes, Church history sites and visitors’ centers.

    Consider gatherings of holy people, quorums and classes, FSY and seminary, ward and stake activities, even ward choirs.

    Testify of holy truths often. “As you seek and take opportunities to share your testimony with others, you will create moments to recognize the Spirit for yourself.”

    Listen carefully to the Spirit, which speaks in subtle, quiet tones. Being attuned to the language of the Spirit requires diligent, patient effort. “Exercising spiritual gifts requires spiritual exercise.”

    Spiritual impressions will align with scriptures and living prophets’ teachings. They will be consistent with each assignment but cannot be forced. Nor are they necessary in every thing.

    When people look in the mirror, they can remind themselves of their divine identity and that they are gifted with the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

    Notable quotes

    If you hope to feel the Spirit, be in a place where the Spirit can easily dwell.

    The Spirit cannot be restrained from attending a gathering of holy people.

    As we listen and act on spiritual promptings, the Holy Ghost magnifies our abilities and capacities, to far exceed what we can do on our own.

    See the full text of Elder Stevenson’s talk: ‘Promptings of the Spirit’

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