Every Monday (or Sunday night) I ask the Lord what my friends need. Usually it’s something I need too. Many times I go with an assurance in my spirit. I find the verses by faith that somebody will need them, if only one body.

But this week not only did I sense the Lord’s leading, He confirmed it with two separate books–one I often read before bed, and the other, a morning devotional my daughter gave me for Mother’s Day. (It was a replacement of Jesus Calling. Our dog ate my first copy…really. We don’t have the dog anymore, but not because he ate my favorite devotional.)

I had sensed the Lord’s leading to read scriptures about the Holy Spirit. It was confirmed last night when I read these words:

“The Holy Spirit of God is given to us so that we can become participants in God’s compassion and so reach out to all people at all times with God’s heart.” ~Here and Now, Henry Nouwen

Let it soak in.

How different would our light to the world shine if our desire for the Holy Spirit be that our heart beat the same love-rhythm as God’s?

Not for healing power or tongues or prophecy or wisdom but simply to obtain His compassion?

My compassion has limits. His does not. Mine runs dry; I’ve been drained before, but His is a never ending fountain of Living Water for those in need.

 

Sometimes we just need it for our own families whom we take care of day in and day out.

“Learn to Relate to others through My love rather than yours. Your human love is ever so limited full of flaws and manipulation. My loving Presence, which always enfolds you, is available to bless others as well as you….Let my love envelop your outreach to other people.” ~Jesus Calling, Sarah Young.

Does it bring release to know we need the Holy Spirit to help us love?

Fill up with Him this week as you read the Bites of Bread and journal your thoughts and prayers. No burdens. Only do for others as God gives you the strength and grace to give.

 

Winner of Sailing Between the Stars, by Steven James is:

Marilyn Murphy! Congratulations Marilyn!