“But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” (John 14:26)
Yesterday most of our congregations celebrated Reformation Sunday. Today is the actual date of the Reformation of 1517. I fear most people look back and think it’s all done and then we rest comfortably. This is not the case. Every moment of every day we are under assault by Satan. Every moment of every day we need the power of God to resist the devil and therefore a daily re-formation occurs.
First, listen to the Holy Spirit within you. He will constantly remind you of God’s plan and show you how to carry it out. He will “teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you” (v. 26). What has God’s Word instructed you to do? Have you done it yet? Obedience is the doorway to blessing.
Second, spend time with God in prayer daily: “In the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion” (Psalm 27:5). A “pavilion” was a secret chamber in a king’s palace, and it was so well fortified that even if an enemy found it, they couldn’t penetrate it. All hell could have been breaking loose and it didn’t make a difference; in the secret place there was peace. Are you letting things that don’t really matter overwhelm you? Are you upset over things that should be dismissed as trivialities? Get alone with God and let Him restore your perspective.
Third, never be too proud to seek advice and assistance. The Bible says those of us who are strong ought to bear the burdens of the weak (see Romans 15:1). There are times when we need to lift others, and times when we need to be lifted. Jesus healed a woman who had been bowed down by sickness for eighteen years and “could in no way raise herself” (Luke 13:11). Sometimes you need help because you can’t help yourself. David understood this, and he turned to the men of Issachar because they “had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” (1 Chronicles 12:32). God has provided help — reach for it!
Prayer
Lord, give me Your strength when I am weak and troubled, and grant me Your peace when I am weary and confused. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
