2012
When is it not appropriate to share spiritual experiences?
September 2012


“When is it not appropriate to share spiritual experiences?” Liahona, Sept. 2012, 47

When is it not appropriate to share spiritual experiences?

Sharing our spiritual experiences with those who are open to hearing them is a wonderful way to build the faith and testimony of others. If you feel prompted to tell about an answer to prayer, for instance, others will have more faith that their prayers can be answered. But if you have had an unusual or deeply personal spiritual experience, it is wise not to share it unless the Holy Ghost moves you to do so.

President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, has said:

“I have learned that strong, impressive spiritual experiences do not come to us very frequently. And when they do, they are generally for our own edification, instruction, or correction. …

“I have come to believe also that it is not wise to continually talk of unusual spiritual experiences. They are to be guarded with care and shared only when the Spirit itself prompts you to use them to the blessing of others. …

“We are, I believe, to keep these things and ponder them in our hearts.”1

Note

  1. Boyd K. Packer, “The Candle of the Lord,” Tambuli, July 1983, 31; Ensign, Jan. 1983, 53.