Accepting His Help

May 16, 2008

By William E. Richardson

“But when the Helper comes … ” (John 15:26, NKJV).

My first police car ride came at an early age. I was picked up by the police when I was 8 years old. It was my first day at a new school. I got lost on the walk home.

Ever since that helpful ride, my relationship with the men in blue has been positive. Although, I’ll admit, I often check my speedometer before passing a parked police car on the highway.

We understand the police officer is there to help and protect us. Still, for various reasons, some people steer clear of those devoted individuals who are dedicated to serve.

Isn’t our relationship with the Holy Spirit similar? He is devoted to helping us. Yet, sometimes, as practicing Christians, we try to avoid Him.

Why? He’s proven His intentions to help time after time. Before any of us repented of our sins, He convinced us of our need. He helped us admit to breaking God’s laws and to request forgiveness. The Holy Spirit continues helping us, guiding us, and warning us when we’re veering off course.

As much as we don’t welcome the sight of flashing police car lights behind us, we should welcome every flashing inner warning from the Holy Spirit. Accepting His input is always to our benefit. But we don’t always understand that.

God knew we wouldn’t. The Bible tells us not to resist (Acts 7:51), grieve (Ephesians 4:30) or quench (1 Thessalonians 5:19) the Holy Spirit.

Still, Christians can sometimes act like people trying to avoid police officers, police cars and police stations. We may hesitate to pick up a Bible or pray or attend church. The reason: our conscience. We know the Holy Spirit will use those activities to apprehend us.

If you’re in that frame of mind, you aren’t fully free. Denying the Holy Spirit’s help limits the spiritual freedom God wants you to enjoy.

The Holy Spirit’s objective in our lives is always to help us. After He helps turn our hearts to Jesus, His single desire is to escort us from living as new converts to living as new residents in heaven.

I’m glad I let the policeman help me when I was 8 years old. Perhaps on your way to heaven you’ve recently taken a wrong turn. Instead of trying to hide from the Holy Spirit’s help, let Him give you a lift.

— William E. Richardson is senior pastor of Afton (Iowa) Assembly of God.