Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin (1917–2008) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught the importance of diligent effort to merit the continued presence of the Holy Ghost: “As with all gifts, [the gift of the Holy Ghost] must be received and accepted to be enjoyed. When priesthood hands were laid upon your head to confirm you a member of the Church, you heard the words, ‘Receive the Holy Ghost.’ This did not mean that the Holy Ghost unconditionally became your constant companion. Scriptures warn us that the Spirit of the Lord will ‘not always strive with man.’ When we are confirmed, we are given the right to the companionship of the Holy Ghost, but it is a right that we must continue to earn through obedience and worthiness. We cannot take this gift for granted” (in Conference Report, Apr. 2003, 27; or Ensign, May 2003, 27).