Being a Christian, according to the Bible, is the same as being a disciple, or student or follower of Jesus.  And following Jesus means practicing His teachings in all we do.  That includes putting God first, laying our lives down for others, telling people about the Gospel, enduring persecution, and even doing miracles, just to name a few things that Jesus taught and demonstrated during His life on this earth.  Sound like a tall order?  Yep, it is.  In fact, on our own, it’s impossible.  Which is why, at the end of Jesus’ earthly ministry, He spoke of a very special gift God would give us: the Holy Spirit.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. (John 14:26 ESV)

Throughout the Bible, the Holy Spirit is revealed as the source of power, enabling people to do what they otherwise could not do.  And we need the Holy Spirit to give us the power to live the lives God has called us to.

He helps us to obey God faithfully, and repent when we screw up and disobey.  Through Him, we can pray for people and see miracles happen.  And He’s the One who performs the miracle of transforming us to be more like Jesus.  It is all by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Trying to do all the right things ourselves not only isn’t what God requires of us, it’s not possible.

No Christian can live the Christian life on their own. It requires the Holy Spirit’s help. (excerpt from Fellowshipping With the Holy Spirit, by Dr. Chester C. Pipkin, Jr.)

Amazingly, this help from the Holy Spirit makes all the difference between an impossible task and a limitless journey for God’s glory.  What an incredible Gift!