Lesson Summary: January 20, 2013

Baptism and the Gift of the Holy Ghost
     Teacher - Barbara Nuenswander
Even after gaining a testimony of the gospel, Lorenzo Snow wrestled with the decision to be baptized, because he would have to leave behind some of his worldly ambitions.  Many of the sisters in our ward were baptized after the age of 8 and shared some sweet remembrances with us.
Sister Shill remembers a feeling of lightness, and a noticeable difference to her friends who were not of our faith.
As a teenager Sister Harris liked to visit different churches with a friend, one Sunday the preacher was saying unflattering things about the Mormons, so they asked their Mormon friend and set up an appointment to ask the missionaries all their questions.  They went back to the preacher to let him know they wouldn't be attending again since they were joining the Mormon church.  He told them they would go the Hell if they did.
Sis Lewis found it hard when none of her family attended her baptism, even with all the friends who came to support her.  Looking out from within the font of those who came she thought they will be my family, this is what heaven must look like.  Friends loving and there .
When sister McDonald remember her baptism day she misses her sweet cow that was hit by a car and died the same day.
Sis Walker set the tone for her baptism by giving some cash to someone who found themselves just a little short in the check-out line.
Sis Paradise thought it was pretty awesome to be baptized in the Salt Lake Tabernacle. The font was removed when it was renovated and retrofitted for earthquake safety a few years back.

John 3:5- "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannon enter into the kingdom of God."

The Prophet Joseph Smith explained: “There is a difference between the Holy Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Cornelius received the Holy Ghost before he was baptized, which was the convincing power of God unto him of the truth of the Gospel, but he could not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost until after he was baptized. Had he not taken this … ordinance upon him, the Holy Ghost which convinced him of the truth of God, would have left him.” 5
We need to live so that the Holy Ghost can ever be with us, for he cannot dwell in unholy places.  We always need to listen for those promptings and guidance.  The Holy ghost can bring us instruction, revelation, peace, comfort, guidance, and wisdom.