When we feel discouraged, the story of Jesus’ birth offers hope. For some of us, December can be lonely. Christmas might make you realize all over again that your family isn’t exactly Hallmark movie material. The holidays can remind you of loved ones you’ve lost or family members who live too far away for you to be with. Perhaps the end of another year only reminds you that you’re still single, still childless, or still sick.
The loveliest message of Christmas is Emmanuel, God with us.
Woven throughout the opening chapters of Luke is the silent, yet powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. God’s Spirit comes upon Mary, and she conceives a child. The Holy Spirit fills Elizabeth and Zechariah; they prophesy about Jesus’ birth. The same Spirit touches and moves Simeon, so that he goes into the temple courts at the very moment Joseph and Mary bring in their child. Simeon recognizes the baby Messiah.
The same Holy Spirit who acted so powerfully at Jesus’ birth is with us today. You and I are never alone. God became flesh and dwelt among men in the person of Jesus Christ. Before Jesus died, He promised to send the Holy Spirit to His followers. As we follow Jesus, God dwells with us today through the presence of His Spirit.
We are never alone. God is with us.
We may not see God, but He is here. We can see His work in us and around us. When we slow down for a few quiet moments with Him, we can often sense His presence.
When we face discouragement, we have a Comforter.
When we feel fearful, His presence surrounds us.
When we feel unsure of our way, we have a Guide.
When we’re confused, we have a Teacher to remind us of God’s truth.
When we’re heartbroken, we have a Healer.
When we are weak, He empowers us.
When we’re full of doubt, we have the Holy Spirit to strengthen our faith.
As my busy December draws to a close, I realize I need to slow down a bit. I want make space for more of the Holy Spirit in my life. Maybe you do too? Would you pray along with me?
Holy Spirit, come and fill me today. Comfort me and give me hope. Renew my joy. Fill me with your wisdom. Lead me, guide me, and empower me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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I’m linking up with Holly Barrett’s #TestimonyTuesday, Kelly Balarie’s #RaRaLinkup, Holley Gerth’s Coffee for your Heart, Lyli Dunbar’s #ThoughtProvokingThursday, and Arabah Joy’s Grace and Truth. Check out these communities for more encouragement.
Betsy,
I really needed this post today. I’m feeling tired and I’ve got some big decisions to make. Thank you for reminding me that I am not alone…my Guide is with me. Your post was very timely.
Blessings,
Bev
I’m praying for you now, Bev. This is a tiring time, right after the holidays. May the Lord guide your decision.
It is so encouraging that to remember that God is with us, that whatever we face we are not alone. I also want to take time to slow down and to make more space for the Holy Spirit’s work.
Me too. I really need that time and space, Lesley.
Praying along with you, “Slow me down, Lord.”
Thank you for listing the amazing acts of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. May we claim them, moment by moment, in the upcoming year.
Yes, the Holy Spirit does so much in us and for us. 🙂 Blessings to you, Michele.
Yes, I am with you! God has been teaching me a lot about His peace this season. I want that knowledge of His peace to carry into the new year. Regardless of my circumstances, I have the peace that Jesus gave us when He left and sent us His Spirit. Praise God for His peace today!
Amen, Kristine. I’ve been thinking a lot about peace lately too as I’ve been concerned about some loved ones and also about the situation where I live. His peace rules and reigns. 🙂
I’ve felt so lonely this week, with my husband working and Christmas. Thank you for this reminder.
Blessings!
Oh Sarah, my heart goes out to you. Praying for you now. Lord, surround Sarah.
So encouraging as always, Betsy. It is so good to be reminded of the Spirit’s presence and help. I so often forget that fact and end up trying to muddle through on my own. You would think I would learn…
Oh Jeannie! You and me both! I think I spend half my life muddling through on my own. 🙂 The other half, I sometimes remember Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Beautiful prayer, Betsy. Joining you in that prayer. Reminds me of a song we used to sing in high school, “Holy Spirit, You are welcome in this place…” Lovely thoughts to settle on as the old year closes and a new year begins. Thank you, Betsy. 🙂 xoxo
Amen to that song, Brenda. I love the one by Francesca Battistelli (sp?) as well. 🙂
“The loveliest message of Christmas is Emmanuel, God with us.” Thank you, Betsy, for this reminder of the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. I so often lose sight of the fact that He is even with me, let alone consider the reality that I have access to ‘life-from-the-grave power’ through Him. Visiting today from #graceandtruth
Thanks for reading, Deborah. Yes, I often lose sight of His presence with me as well. That’s why I wrote this, it was for myself. 🙂
This is a beautiful reminder. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Thanks for reading, Nicole!
Maybe if we ever needed hope and encouragement it’s at the end of this year. He awaits to take us into the next 365 days.
May the months ahead be blessed with the fullness of His presence and the delight of fine companions on the journey …
Christmas is over now, but this is still a timely reminder! Now that things have slowed down a bit and family is no longer visiting, I feel a sense of loneliness. Indeed, God is with me!
Right, Shannon? It’s a good reminder for all year long. I need it more than anyone. 🙂 Blessings and grace to you.