The God-Given Helper…
One day I was getting some things together to take to my mom—things I had purchased and things other people had given her. As I was loading the car, I stopped to ensure that I had everything. I just knew I was missing something! So, I kept moving, thinking it would come to my memory. It did not. As it was nearing time for me to go, I stopped and prayed. “God,” I said, “show me what I am forgetting. Thank you!” Immediately, the forgotten item came to mind. I smiled as I remembered a message I heard years ago: “Helping is a part of the Holy Spirit’s ministry.” Friends, the Holy Spirit is our advocate. God loves us so much that when we put our trust in Him, He sends us His Spirit to come alongside us. The purpose of His Spirit is not only to comfort, but also to give us power and strength. Jesus told His disciples that it was better for them if He went away because if He did not, they could not receive the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew that His disciples would suffer extreme persecution and ultimately give their lives for Him. The Holy Spirit would empower them to do so because being faithful in hard times is impossible in our own strength. Being a Christian does not exempt us from difficult times—they happen to everyone. 1 Peter 4:12-13 says, “Don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.” The Holy Spirit helps us continue without losing our faith. Again, His ministry is to help us. He will give us the strength to pray more, the will to read more, and the resources to give more. God promised that He would take care of us, and He is able to do just what He said. All we need to do as ask. Friends, are you going through a tough time right now? Please know that it is common. We all have seasons of hardship. But please, keep pressing forward. Don’t give up on God. He will carry you through. He loves you, and He knows what is best for you. Call on your advocate and trust Him to give you the comfort, power, and strength that you need. Remember, God loves you! For God’s Glory, Tahnee
