Comforter and Guide

Comforter God on Monday
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We glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Rom. 5:3-5).

Reflection

At some point in our lives, all of us experience challenging circumstances. Having gone through my fair share of them, I have often questioned ‘why?’ How does this build my character, and give me hope? Is there any meaning to it?

An analogy I’ve found helpful in such times is a biblical one: that of sheep and a shepherd. Sheep left to themselves will often stray blindly into danger from predators, crevasses, ditches, and streams. But good shepherds lead their sheep away from danger and ensure that they eventually reach green pastures. The sheep thereby learn to trust the shepherd when faced with difficulty.

We need to be like those sheep. In every area of our lives – including our work – we need to trust the God who is intently watching, observing, and guiding us by his love through the precarious terrain of ordinary human life.

With trust like this, hardships cannot crush us. Instead, they help produce the character and hope of which the Apostle Paul speaks in the verses above.

All human beings desire relationships of love. God is no different - the Holy Spirit within us yearns for us to be in a loving relationship with our maker, and for us to ask for all that we need.

Response

God’s Spirit comes, however imperceptibly, when we take time to draw near to God. Ask for the Spirit’s help in the struggles you face this week.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I yield my heart to you. With your gentle strength, guide me towards greener pastures. When the way is rugged and when I stumble, build your character within me and fill me with your hope. Amen.

This Week's Author

Karim Lawson-Williams, Founder of IAM STUDIOS

God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the coming Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up to Faith in Business here to receive each God on Monday instalment.

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