The Spirit of God like a fire is burning



One of my favorite Latter-day Saints hymns starts with the phrase, "The Spirit of God like a fire is burning." Growing up that has always been one of my favorite songs. As I have progressed in the Gospel, the topic of that song has grown closer to me as well.
The Spirit of God has many titles, such as: Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Comforter, and the Spirit of truth. An Apostle from our Church teaches us that, "The Holy Ghost is manifested to men on the earth both as the power of the Holy Ghost and as the gift of the Holy Ghost. The power can come upon one before baptism, and is the convincing witness that the gospel is true. It gives one a testimony of Jesus Christ and of his work and the work of his servants upon the earth. The gift can come only after proper and authorized baptism, and is conferred by the laying on of hands, as in Acts 8:12-25 and Moroni 2:1-3. The gift of the Holy Ghost is the right to have, whenever one is worthy, the companionship of the Holy Ghost. More powerful than that which is available before baptism, it acts as a cleansing agent to purify a person and sanctify him from all sin. Thus it is often spoken of as “fire.”
What a blessing it is to have the Spirit of the Lord with us at all times! Our Savior teaches us in John chapter 14 verse 18, "I will not leave you comfortless." He said this to His Apostles, who, were beginning to realize that He would soon be leaving them. I cannot imagine how it would be to walk the streets of Jerusalem with the greatest life known to mankind. Far more unfathomable than that, to be told that He will be leaving you shortly. I caught a glimpse of that longing as I walked away from my family nine months ago. Just as the Savior had to depart His beloved desciples, I too had to walk away from my family's loving embrace. It was tough. But the Comforter, filled my heart with peace. I felt the love my Father in Heaven had for me and I received the strength that I needed to serve my Lord for two years. I could not do this without the Spirit in my life. I would not want to.
The Gift of the Holy Ghost is a remarkable blessing that is Heaven sent. It is a prime example of the love our Father in Heaven has for us. And a helpmate to this long and winding road of life. I am so grateful for it. God lives. This I know. Jesus is the Christ. They love us. And I love you all. Stay classy.
Elder Hill