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What Is a Gift of the Spirit?

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Answer

A spiritual gift is a divine ability, insight, or strength given by God through the Holy Ghost to help a person serve others and become more like Jesus Christ.

Going deeper

A spiritual gift is a divine ability, insight, or strength given by God through the Holy Ghost to help a person serve others and become more like Jesus Christ. These gifts are not reserved for a select few or meant to bring personal prestige; rather, they are practical tools provided so each individual can contribute meaningfully to the welfare and unity of the Church. As the Twelve Apostles taught, spiritual gifts are “blessings and capacities given by God to His children through the power of the Holy Ghost” 1. Every gift, whether traditional or subtle, reflects a divine attribute of Christ and is intended to build up the community rather than elevate the recipient.

The concept of spiritual gifts is deeply rooted in both ancient and modern scripture. The New Testament assures believers to “deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God” 2, emphasizing that gifts are a living reality, not a relic of the apostolic age. Modern revelation continues this teaching, showing that the Holy Ghost gives gifts to teach, remind, and guide us into all truth 3. Together, these scriptures make clear that spiritual gifts are essential to the edification of the Church today, helping members recognize Christ’s presence in one another and in their own lives.

A Spiritual Gift: A Definition and Its Purpose

A spiritual gift is an ability, insight, or strength given by God through the Holy Ghost to help individuals serve others and grow closer to Jesus Christ. These gifts are not tools for personal prestige or display; rather, they are practical blessings intended to benefit the community. As the scriptures teach, “For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God” 4. This diversity ensures that each person can contribute in a way that is uniquely suited to their nature and calling.

Every member of the Church is entitled to at least one spiritual gift, and many more, though they often manifest in quiet and subtle ways. While some gifts are more commonly recognized, such as prophecy or healing, others include the gift of discernment, patience, or quiet faith. Elder Gary E. Stevenson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained, “Looking through a gospel lens, God endows His children with many spiritual gifts, making them spiritually gifted people. Covenant-keeping members of the Church are bestowed with gifts of the Spirit, which include the gift of a testimony of Jesus Christ as our Savior, the gift of the Holy Ghost, the gift of faith to heal and be healed, the gift of discernment, the gift of receiving miracles, and the gifts of wisdom and knowledge. The Lord invites us to earnestly seek the best gifts, even spiritual gifts. He gives spiritual gifts to bless us and to use in blessing others” 5. These gifts are not static traits but can be sought through prayer and righteously nurtured as we strive to live according to our covenants. Elder David A. Bednar, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught that spiritual gifts are “blessings and capacities given by God to His children through the power of the Holy Ghost” 1. He further emphasized that these gifts are essential to our coming unto the Savior, being blessed with His attributes, and ultimately becoming more like Him. Ultimately, every gift reflects a divine attribute of Christ and helps us become more like Him while building up the Church.

Scriptural Foundations: Ancient and Modern Revelation

The biblical record establishes spiritual gifts as a normative part of Christian life, not an exception. In the New Testament, the apostle Paul explicitly writes, “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant” 6, indicating that understanding these endowments is essential for proper Christian living. Paul then explains that God distributes different gifts among believers so that each may contribute to the community, noting that “to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God” 4. These gifts include tangible manifestations like prophecy and discerning of spirits 7, but they also encompass the quieter, daily workings of the Spirit that enable members to love, serve, and build up one another.

The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants extend this biblical foundation into modern revelation, confirming that spiritual gifts continue to be given to the Church today. In the Book of Mormon, Alma lists the “gift of speaking with tongues, and the gift of preaching, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the gift of translation” among the many blessings received by the prophets 8. The Doctrine and Covenants reinforces this continuity, teaching that “God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit, yea, by the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost, that has not been revealed since the world was until now” 9. Furthermore, Moroni assures the reader that “the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil” 10, and that believers should “deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God” 2. Together, these scriptures show that spiritual gifts are not relics of the apostolic age but living expressions of Christ’s presence in the Church today.

Teachings of Modern Prophets and Apostles

Modern prophets and apostles consistently emphasize that spiritual gifts are diverse, accessible to every member, and meant to be sought through prayer and righteous living. They stress that gifts are not limited to a few with dramatic, public manifestations, but include quiet, everyday spiritual strengths. As Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught, “Looking through a gospel lens, God endows His children with many spiritual gifts, making them spiritually gifted people. Covenant-keeping members of the Church are bestowed with gifts of the Spirit, which include the gift of a testimony of Jesus Christ as our Savior, the gift of the Holy Ghost, the gift of faith to heal and be healed, the gift of discernment, the gift of receiving miracles, and the gifts of wisdom and knowledge. The Lord invites us to earnestly seek the best gifts, even spiritual gifts. He gives spiritual gifts to bless us and to use in blessing others.” 5 This view affirms that every faithful member receives at least one spiritual gift and usually many more, and that these gifts are meant to serve others rather than elevate oneself.

Prophets also encourage members to actively seek and nurture spiritual gifts through prayer and covenant-keeping. Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles highlighted the value of the gift of discernment, noting that “One of the gifts of the Gospel which the Lord has promised to those who enter into covenant with Him is the gift of discerning of spirits—a gift which is not much thought of by many and probably seldom prayed for; yet it is a gift that is of exceeding value and one that should be enjoyed by every Latter-day Saint....” 11 Similarly, Elder Bruce R. McConkie of the Council of the Twelve taught that the spirit of prophecy is a gift of the Spirit that “comes in full measure only to faithful members of the Church” and is “reserved for those whose right it is to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost.” 12 These teachings show that spiritual gifts are closely tied to personal righteousness and the relationship with Christ. As President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency explained, the Holy Ghost, the third member of the Godhead, testifies of the Father and the Son, to teach us, to bring all things to our remembrance, and to guide us into all truth. 3 Thus, spiritual gifts are not isolated talents but expressions of Christ’s character, given to help members grow in faith and serve others more effectively.

The Evolution of Teaching on Spiritual Gifts

Early Church teaching emphasized the diversity of spiritual gifts and their essential role in the edification of the Church. In Moroni 10:8, the Book of Mormon declares, “And again, I exhort you, my brethren, that ye deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God. And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them.” 2 This passage establishes that gifts are not uniform nor limited in type; rather, they are varied expressions of divine power given to help individuals and communities grow. Elder Delbert L. Stapley (Of the Council of the Twelve) reinforced this view in 1977, noting that “The same gifts of the Spirit which prevailed in the church at the time of Jesus are prevalent today. Some of these gifts are: revelation, healing, miracles, prophecy, and many others—as found in First Corinthians, twelfth chapter; Doctrine and Covenants, forty-sixth section; and in the tenth chapter of Moroni in the Book of Mormon.” 13 These traditional gifts, alongside the broader category of spiritual endowments, reflect a continuity of divine assistance across time.

Over the decades, the emphasis has broadened to include quieter, less visible manifestations. Elder Marvin J. Ashton (Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles) expanded the understanding in 1987, listing “less-conspicuous gifts” such as listening, avoiding contention, being agreeable, and pondering. 14 Elder David A. Bednar (Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles) recalled Ashton’s message as impactful, noting how it helped members recognize that spiritual gifts are not only dramatic or public but also subtle qualities that shape daily interactions. In his 2005 General Conference address “Quick to Observe,” Elder Bednar described how Elder Ashton’s talk detailed “a number of less conspicuous spiritual gifts—attributes and abilities that many of us might not have considered being spiritual gifts,” including listening, avoiding contention, being agreeable, and pondering. 11 This shift reflects a deeper recognition that gifts serve practical, relational purposes—building unity, offering comfort, and fostering humility. Rather than diminishing the value of traditional endowments, contemporary teaching clarifies that the Spirit works through many channels, each tailored to the needs of the individual and the community.

Connection to Core Doctrines and Practices

Spiritual gifts are woven into the foundation of Latter-day Saint doctrine through their intimate relationship with the Holy Ghost, baptism, and the priesthood. The Church teaches that the Holy Ghost is the source of every spiritual gift, acting as the conduit through which divine ability and insight reach believers. In Moroni 10:17, the prophet Moroni writes, “And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally, according as he will” 15. This principle underscores that gifts are not arbitrary allocations but personal responses to the Spirit, tailored to each individual’s needs and calling. President Dallin H. Oaks (First Counselor in the First Presidency) explained that the Holy Ghost is “one of the most significant of God’s helps for His faithful children” 3, emphasizing that this gift is formally received after baptism and repentance, completing the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel as outlined in the Articles of Faith 16.

The connection between gifts and the priesthood is equally central. The priesthood holds the authority to lay hands upon members to confer the gift of the Holy Ghost, making this ordinance the gateway through which individuals receive divine endowments. Lesson 3 of The Gospel of Jesus Christ explains that “only when we receive baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost can we receive a remission of our sins and become completely spiritually reborn” 17. This rebirth is not a one-time event but the beginning of a lifelong journey in which the Spirit continually imparts new gifts and insights. President Dallin H. Oaks further noted that the doctrine of Christ, as taught in the Book of Mormon, includes “faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, enduring to the end, and becoming as a little child” 18. Through these practices, members participate in a sacred system where gifts, baptism, and the priesthood work together to deepen their relationship with Christ and their community.

Common Misunderstandings: What Spiritual Gifts Are Not

A common misconception is that spiritual gifts are reserved for a select few or must manifest in dramatic, public ways. This view misunderstands both the nature and purpose of these divine endowments. In LDS doctrine, spiritual gifts are tools for service, not instruments of personal prestige. They are given “to profit them” to help build up the community 2. Rather than highlighting individual superiority, gifts are meant to foster unity and mutual edification. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf explained, “The scriptures teach us that spiritual gifts are given to those who ask of God, who love Him, and who keep His commandments (see D&C 46:9). 'All have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God'” 19. This teaching underscores that gifts are not exclusive privileges but accessible blessings for faithful members.

Another frequent misunderstanding is that spiritual gifts are limited to extraordinary or supernatural phenomena. In reality, every person receives at least one spiritual gift, and most possess many. These include both traditional gifts like prophecy or healing, as well as quiet, everyday gifts such as patience, discernment, or the ability to listen deeply. As Elder Dallin H. Oaks noted, “The gift of the Holy Ghost is more comprehensive” 20, encompassing a wide spectrum of spiritual strengths. Members are encouraged to seek and nurture these gifts through prayer and righteous living. “All have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God” 4. This diversity ensures that everyone can contribute meaningfully to the Church’s mission.

The Practical Impact: How Gifts Show Up in Everyday Life

Spiritual gifts are not meant for personal pride or display; they are tools given to serve others and build up the Church. Elder Marvin J. Ashton reminds us of the less-conspicuous gifts that shape daily life: “the gift of asking; the gift of listening; the gift of hearing and using a still, small voice; the gift of being able to weep; the gift of avoiding contention; the gift of being agreeable; the gift of avoiding vain repetition; the gift of seeking that which is righteous; the gift of not passing judgment; the gift of looking to God for guidance; the gift of being a disciple; the gift of caring for others; the gift of being able to ponder; the gift of offering prayer; the gift of bearing a mighty testimony; and the gift of receiving the Holy Ghost” 14. These quiet abilities allow members to comfort a grieving friend, patiently listen to a struggling neighbor, or offer encouragement during difficult times. They are not reserved for clergy or the spiritually elite but are meant for every faithful member who wishes to contribute to the welfare of others.

The variety of gifts ensures that everyone has at least one, and often many, that can be sought and nurtured through prayer and righteous living. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf reminds us: “There are many gifts, and to every [person] is given a gift by the Spirit of God” 21. Whether it is the gift of discernment to help someone in distress, the gift of patience to endure a challenging situation, or the gift of gratitude that helps a person appreciate what they have, each gift reflects a quality of Christ and draws individuals closer to Him. As Elder Ulisses Soares explains, “Such attributes are gifts from God, and as we strive to develop them, we will begin to see our neighbor’s differences and weaknesses with more empathy, sensitivity, respect, and tolerance” 22.

For those wishing to explore spiritual gifts in greater depth, the Church offers a wealth of authoritative resources that expand upon the nature, seeking, and application of these divine blessings. Scripture provides the foundational framework for understanding spiritual gifts, with Moroni exhorting his readers not to deny the gifts of God, noting that “they are many; and they come from the same God” 2. He further clarifies that these gifts are given “by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them” 2. This scriptural emphasis underscores that spiritual gifts are not arbitrary or exclusive; rather, they are purposeful endowments designed to benefit individuals and the broader community.

Modern prophets and apostles have consistently reinforced the idea that spiritual gifts are accessible to all covenant-keepers and can be sought through earnest prayer and righteous living. Elder Gary E. Stevenson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught that “The Lord invites us to earnestly seek the best gifts, even spiritual gifts. He gives spiritual gifts to bless us and to use in blessing others” 5. This invitation to seek and cultivate gifts reflects a dynamic relationship with the Holy Ghost, where members are encouraged to pray for specific blessings, such as faith, discernment, or wisdom, as they face new challenges or callings. Additionally, Elder Bruce R. McConkie, of the Council of the Twelve, highlighted the personal nature of these endowments, stating that “I know this work is true” 23, which he described as his own gift of testimony and revelation. Such personal experiences remind us that spiritual gifts are not abstract concepts but tangible manifestations of God’s love and power in our daily lives. By engaging with these resources, readers can deepen their understanding of how spiritual gifts enrich both individual and communal faith.

Footnotes

  1. Bednar, David A. (2026-04-01). "All Who Have Endured Valiantly". ↩ ↩2

  2. Moroni 10:8. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6

  3. Oaks, Dallin H. (2025-04-01). "Divine Helps for Mortality". ↩ ↩2 ↩3

  4. Doctrine and Covenants 46:11. ↩ ↩2 ↩3

  5. Stevenson, Gary E. (2023-10-01). "Promptings of the Spirit". ↩ ↩2 ↩3

  6. 1 Corinthians 12:1. ↩

  7. 1 Corinthians 12:10. ↩

  8. Alma 9:21. ↩

  9. Doctrine and Covenants 121:26. ↩

  10. Moroni 7:16. ↩

  11. Bednar, David A. (2005-05-10). "“Quick to Observe”". ↩ ↩2

  12. McConkie, Bruce R. (1974-10-01). "Be Valiant in the Fight of Faith". ↩

  13. Stapley, Delbert L. (1977-04-01). "What Constitutes the True Church". ↩

  14. Ashton, Marvin J. (1987-10-01). "“There Are Many Gifts”". ↩ ↩2

  15. Moroni 10:17. ↩

  16. Articles of Faith 1:4. ↩

  17. "Lesson 3 The Gospel of Jesus Christ". The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ↩

  18. Oaks, Dallin H. (2024-10-01). "Following Christ". ↩

  19. Uchtdorf, Dieter F. (2005-04-01). "The Fruits of the First Vision". ↩

  20. Oaks, Dallin H. (1996-10-01). "“Always Have His Spirit”". ↩

  21. Uchtdorf, Dieter F. (2025-10-01). "Do Your Part with All Your Heart". ↩

  22. Soares, Ulisses (2023-04-01). "Followers of the Prince of Peace". ↩

  23. McConkie, Bruce R. (1972-10-01). "“I Know That My Redeemer Lives”". ↩