One day, while I was reading the Doctrine and Covenants, one phrase caught my attention: “As that subject seems to occupy my mind, and press itself upon my feelings the strongest.” (D&C 128:1.) I realized that this is another way in which the Holy Ghost works with us. A subject or thought will stay with us, and we may mull over it or reflect upon it again and again until we understand it more thoroughly.

Although Joseph Smith was being pursued by his enemies and faced numerous distractions, the subject of baptism for the dead had pressed upon him for some time. His experience differed from the one in which the Spirit enlightens the mind and brings joy to the heart.

This means of inspiration has often led to direct revelation, as with the subject of baptism for the dead. Doctrine and Covenants 76 (see D&C 76:15–19) and 138 (see D&C 138:1–11) and Official Declaration—2 (see introduction [OD 2]) all came after three different prophets had been impressed to meditate for some time upon the subjects.