Lenten Series: In Need of The Helper
Lent is a liturgical observance and season of reflection; not a biblical mandate. It is simply a time to remind ourselves and appreciate the abundant grace of Christ’s saving work on the cross. It is a time to press in deeper in submission to Christ’s authority as we prepare our hearts to celebrate, with exceedingly great joy, the resurrection that awaits every believer and follower.
In our Lenten daily devotionals, we will focus on our spiritual needs and desires and how the Helper is our Gift for strength and success if we will bow in greater submission to the authority of our King and the terms of His Kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Spirit.
Reflection: Hungering for the Best
Digging for Truth: Over the years, I have received some of the most amazing gifts from loved ones and friends. I have valued and treasured each gift, because I knew they flowed from hearts of love. However, as much as I have valued these gifts of time, handmade gifts or purchased gifts, they cannot compare with the Father’s Gift for me of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said the Spirit was the best Gift ever; so, I need to value my Helper and hunger and thirst for what he brings to my life.
Grace for the Heart: If we are going to walk in the power of the Spirit, we must understand the great value of our Gift. Nothing in life could be better. The Helper brings us an awareness of God’s love, produces the fruit of the Spirit in us, convicts us when we are not consistent with the likeness of Christ, fills us with strength for our weaknesses, liberates us from lousy and destructive habits, fills us with joy unspeakable and full of glory, and brings healing to our spirits, souls [mind/will/emotions] and our bodies. When we hunger and thirst for these righteous things, we are positioned to receive the Helper (John 7:38-39).
Luke 11:13 NLT So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him.”
Challenge: Jesus tells us to ask. So, let’s begin by asking for the gift of hungering and thirsting knowing it leads us to acknowledge and value the Best Gift God desires to give us. To ask, seek, and knock is really a command; we are desiring a Gift in agreement with God’s will (1 John 5:14-15).
Prayer: Lord, we want to be mighty spiritual fruit bearers and we need the Helper. So, we come thirsty for the Living Water of the Spirit and ask for you to call us to drink. We come hungry for the Spirit of righteousness and ask for you to feed us the Living Bread. We long for the joy of spiritually dining at your holy table and living life with the Helper. Please fill us with the Spirit, Lord, because we hunger for the Best. In Jesus’ name. Amen.