I Shall Not Want, by Yongsung Kim. Courtesy of Havenlight

Walk in God’s light

You make better choices when you can see things clearly. That’s why light is so important; light makes it easier to see the right path. Heavenly Father has given you access to a heavenly source of light—the gift of the Holy Ghost—to help you see clearly what is good and bad, right and wrong.

Eternal Truths

You can have the Holy Ghost as a constant companion. When you were confirmed a member of the Church, you were invited to “receive the Holy Ghost.” The opportunity to have the Spirit as your constant companion is one of God’s greatest gifts to you.

Making good choices improves your ability to feel the Spirit. There are many good and wholesome things in this world. Just as your body is affected by what you eat and drink, your mind and spirit are profoundly affected by what you read, watch, and listen to.

Invitations

Make time for the Lord every day. Learn of Him. Always remember Him. Pray to your Heavenly Father. Study the holy scriptures and the words of living prophets. Then strive to live by what you learn.

Seek that which uplifts, inspires, and invites the Spirit. As you make choices about what to watch, read, listen to, or participate in, think about how it makes you feel. Does it invite good thoughts? Stay away from anything that mocks sacred things or is immoral. Don’t participate in anything that dulls your judgment or sensitivity to the Spirit, such as violence, alcohol, and harmful drugs. Have the courage to turn off a video or game, walk out of a movie or dance, change your music, or turn away from anything that is not consistent with the Spirit.

Use social media to uplift. Social media can be a powerful communication tool. If you use it, focus on light, faith, and truth. Don’t compare your life to what other people seem to be experiencing. Remember that your worth comes from being a child of heavenly parents, not from social media.

Seek wholesome experiences and real, lasting relationships. Be careful that your use of technology and media does not replace spending in-person time with family and friends. Social media and other technology can take a lot of your time without giving much value in return. Take a break from the virtual world and connect with people in real life.

Jesus Christ leading a flock of sheep over a field of grass

Promised Blessings

You can have the Spirit with you always. This promise is part of the covenant you make every time you partake of the sacrament. The Spirit will bear witness to you of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. He will comfort, guide, warn, and sanctify you. He will help you recognize truth and see the good in the world.

Questions and Answers

How can I know if I’m feeling the Holy Ghost? Learning to be aware of the Spirit takes time, practice, and patience. He speaks to different people in different ways. Don’t overlook simple things—the peaceful feeling you get hearing someone’s testimony or the unsettled feeling you get after making a wrong choice. Search the scriptures for different ways the Spirit communicates, pray about it, and keep looking for opportunities to feel the Spirit.

What is pornography? Why should I avoid it? Pornography is a representation, in pictures or words, designed to arouse sexual feelings. Pornography comes in many forms, including videos, pictures, books, games, and music. It can also be messages or images sent between friends. Pornography treats things that are sacred—our physical bodies and sexual feelings—with disrespect. You may come across pornography without meaning to. Whether you come across pornography intentionally or not, turn away immediately. You may also want to talk with a parent or other trusted adult. Intentionally viewing pornography is sinful and harms your ability to feel the Spirit. It weakens your self-control and distorts the way you see yourself and others. Jesus Christ has the power to help you resist pornography and repent. Turn toward Him and turn away from darkness. Your bishop can help you receive strength and forgiveness through the Savior. Jesus Christ is your strength!

See Psalm 119:105 (God’s word is like a light on our path); Amos 5:14 (seek good); Galatians 5:22–23 (the fruits of the Spirit); Moroni 7:18–19 (the light of Christ); Doctrine and Covenants 6:23 (the Lord speaks peace); 20:77, 79 (the sacrament prayers).

Temple Recommend Question

The Lord has said that all things are to be “done in cleanliness” before Him (Doctrine and Covenants 42:41). Do you strive for moral cleanliness in your thoughts and behavior?

What to do in the moment

When you find yourself tempted to use media or technology in unhealthy ways—whether it’s driving away the Spirit or just wasting your time—try the following:

Call it what it is. Acknowledge what you are tempted to do. You might even say it aloud—for example, “This image is pornography,” “This doesn’t feel right,” or “This could hurt someone.”
Replace what you’re doing with a better choice. Often, unhealthy media use happens when a person is alone and doesn’t have something meaningful to do. Move to another room or go outside. Focus on something good.
Connect with someone or something you love and respect, like a family member, a supportive friend, or your favorite scripture. Most of all, connect with your Heavenly Father and pray for strength.

For more help, see “Media Safety” in Gospel Library.