Meditation for the Day!

Our hope for you is firm. (2 Corinthians 1:7)

We've probably all witnessed a scene like this: a father with his toddler,
holding onto her hand as she takes her first tentative steps. She looks
trustingly to him, while he keeps her steady, leads her, and supports her as
she tackles what seems like an insurmountable task. With her father beside
her, she is confident. When she falls, he lifts her up, laughs, and comforts
her.

This image can help us to consider our heavenly Father's role as "the God of
all encouragement" (2 Corinthians 1:3). If you haven't noticed, Paul uses
the words "encourage" or "encouragement" ten times in this passage! The root
comes from the Greek word parakleo, which can mean "to call by the side of."
It is the same word Jesus uses when he calls the Holy Spirit our comforter
(John 14:16). While the Father is the source of our encouragement, it's the
Holy Spirit who actually delivers it!

There's no doubt that we all need this encouragement. Jesus sent the Spirit
to his disciples because he knew that his death would shake them to the
core, and that they would need the Spirit to be with them if they were going
to build his church. As followers of Christ, we also face challenges at
times. And though we are guaranteed trials in this life, we are also
guaranteed that his Spirit will support and strengthen us.

Just how does the Holy Spirit work? It depends on the challenges we face.
Sometimes, if we're feeling alone, the Spirit reminds us that we have a
heavenly Father. Other times, when we're weighed down by our "to-do" list,
he focuses our attention on heaven, our ultimate goal. He may even give us
inspirations that help us deal with specific situations. Or perhaps he'll
send people into our lives to minister his provision and guidance.

The next time you face hardship, ask the Holy Spirit to come to your side.
As you receive his consolation, you will be able to bring his comfort to the
people around you. Remember: You are more than a passive spectator inGod's
plan of salvation. You are a vessel of his mercy!

"God of all encouragement, let me know you are at my side. Let your Spirit
shine through me, so that others may know your love and grace."