“When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” Luke 12.11-12
I am at the Cannes Film Festival with my wife, helping to represent her dental office in an upcoming documentary in which they will be featured. We are in Nice, France, and it’s pretty amazing. The beautiful countryside and people, incredible food, and lots of glamour and money make it quite a scene.
But behind it all is a deep need for people to be known, understood, to gain significance, and to be noticed. Some try harder than others, while some are content with who they are and their station in life. But all of us are in need of a higher purpose—including me.
I met two young men who are seeking a relationship with the Lord. In our conversations, I shared with them about the saving power of Jesus. And at that moment of sharing—which I have done hundreds of times—I knew the Holy Spirit would give me the words to say (Luke 12:12). I did not doubt for a moment that God would speak through me to them exactly what they needed to hear to help them move toward the cross. It was not a message of condemnation, but one of love, of being chosen, and of coming into a relationship with the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
This is what the Holy Spirit does in and through those who love Him and walk according to His ways. We are not alone; God is with us. Throughout the day, He gives us opportunities to witness for Him. Sometimes this is with words, other times through actions, and other times through circumstances or situations. But in every instance, the Holy Spirit is present—actively working, speaking, moving, and flowing.
No matter where we go, what we say or don’t say, God is with us. Just as He was with the early followers of Jesus who were just beginning to tell and retell the story of Jesus. He assured them they would be given a Helper to share the Gospel. You and I have that Helper with us today. Thanks be to God!
“O Lord God, You are good and faithful. Thank You for allowing me to bear witness to Your Word. It is You who does the work. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with Your power and love. Allow me to be Your witness wherever I go. I thank You, Lord, for saving me. For You are good and Your love endures forever.” Amen