Listening for the Spirit: Guidance in Times of Great Conclave

Sometimes, the weight of expectation—whether it's the world watching a major global event, or the quiet anticipation before a missionary discussion—can feel immense. We look to leaders, we read the scriptures, and we pray fervently. But what is the most vital skill we need to cultivate when the stakes feel highest?

As returned missionaries, we’ve learned that the greatest power we have isn't in our knowledge of doctrine, or even in our practiced testimonies; it’s in our willingness to be guided. I was recently reflecting on a novena focusing on a Papal Conclave, and one passage kept drawing my attention: John 16:13. “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own but will only repeat what he has heard. He will receive what is from me and announce it to you.”

This verse, brothers and sisters, is a masterclass in discipleship, and it applies to everything—from navigating the complexities of the Restoration to helping a sincere investigator feel the whisper of the Spirit in their own heart.

The Spirit as Our Primary Guide

The language used here—'guide,' 'repeat what he has heard,' 'receive what is from me'—is so precise. It teaches us that the Spirit doesn't introduce novel, unscriptural ideas; rather, the Spirit testifies of what *has* been revealed. It testifies of the covenants, of the prophets, and of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.

This principle is gold for us as rogue disciples. When we are out in the field—whether that field is a local ward gathering, a virtual meeting, or an actual mission territory—we must remember that our goal isn't to *impress* with how much we know. It's to *point* to what has been revealed. It’s about being receptive vessels.

Mission Prep Skill: Listening for the Echo

Here’s a little skill I want to pass along today for our missionary preparation. When you are in a teaching moment, or even just having a casual conversation, don't just wait for your turn to speak. Practice the 'Echo Question.' After the other person speaks, pause, and instead of launching into your prepared answer, try asking something like, “If I understand correctly, what you are saying is that [rephrase their core concern]? Is that right?”

This simple act forces you to listen past the words and into the underlying need. It shows reverence for their experience, and it allows the Spirit to guide you to the precise scripture or teaching that echoes what they’ve already expressed. It’s humble, it’s Christlike, and it always builds trust.

Discipleship Beyond the Mission Center

The beautiful thing about being a disciple in the latter-day saints is that the work never stops. The novena for the Conclave, with its deep pleas for wisdom, courage, and charity, reminds us that even in matters far removed from our daily lives, the pattern is the same: we pray for divine guidance. We ask for the Spirit to fill our hearts and kindle the fire of love.

This is where our community shines. We can apply this same spirit of earnest seeking in our local study groups. If you’ve been meaning to dive deeper into the scriptures, I highly recommend checking out the Book Club options in HolyPlaces, or joining a Bible Study Group. These are wonderful places to practice discerning what the Spirit is guiding us toward together.

And for those of you who enjoy wrestling with the tougher questions—the ones that require deep doctrinal understanding—don't forget Davee. If you’re preparing for a talk, or maybe just thinking through a difficult concept, run it by him using his AI Investigator role. He’s trained to walk you through the hard questions an investigator might ask, helping you prepare answers that are both doctrinally sound and deeply compassionate.

Let's Keep the Conversation Going

The journey of discipleship is meant to be shared. I’d love to hear how you are actively listening for the Spirit this week. Are you focusing on listening more in your family discussions? Are you applying the Echo Question with a friend? Share your thoughts below!

If you want more tools to help you feel the Spirit's guidance in your own life, check out the latest devotional reading from an Iron Rod author available in LivingBook. Keep studying, keep gathering Israel, and keep relying on the Spirit.