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: The Comforter, Pt 2
Digging for Truth: Today, we will continue our thoughts about the Helper as the Comforter for the brokenhearted; the Lord tenderly loves us into a sense of well-being. When we are brokenhearted, we need the tenderness of our Savior. Tenderness is different than sympathy. The Hebrew root word for tenderness translates as compassion which is derived from the word womb. So, life and compassion are connected; God nurtures us with his own life. God acts in compassionate ways toward us as a parent, father and, as we saw yesterday, a nursing mother. Lastly, genuine godly compassion always results in action. For example, God’s forgiveness flows from his compassion.
Grace for the Heart: Compassion is connected to deliverance; God brings people back to his shalom—wholeness. In the New Testament, God’s compassion is seen clearly in the person of the Son who responded to people’s needs with grace. Jesus looked at people and was moved with compassion, because he realized they were like sheep without a shepherd—in misery with no hope.
John 14:16-17 Amplified Role of the Spirit
16 And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.
Challenge: Compassion is a strong and powerful emotion, so as we follow Jesus we are drawn to help, nurture, and surround others in restorative ways, because of the compassion we have received from the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for seeing our tears and for knowing we need your Helper to guide us toward wholeness. In our restoration, may we be quick to share compassion with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.