In Week Five we will be looking specifically at Tan’s chapter on the work of the Holy Spirit in counseling. For now, though, it is not too soon to begin turning our attention to this vital element of our personal, ministerial, and professional life.
Isaiah 9:6 shows us what it means to show care and concern for others. John 15-17 tells us of the comfort that Jesus gives to his disciples, and therefore to us: we are not alone because we have the Holy Spirit (parakletos). In its widest sense, this term means “(a) an advocate, intercessor, (b) a consoler, comforter, helper, (c) Paraclete” (www.biblehub.com). In John 14-17, Jesus promised His disciples that they would not be alone, but would always have someone who would take His place. Jesus called Him “another Comforter.”
This same Holy Spirit dwells within us, enabling us to be helpers to others. Many of you who are taking this course hope to be people helpers. The comfort we have is that we do not have to do this on our own; we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit Who promises to be with us and enables us to reach out to others to give them what they need.
So often, beginning people helpers think they must depend on their own strength as they learn how to be people helpers, forgetting that they do have a Counselor who will be right by their side. They simply must invite Him in.
Consider this:
- How has the Holy Spirit enabled you in the past to help others?
- How will knowing about the Spirit’s proven “track record” with you, help you in the future to depend on Him when working with others who are in need?
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