Helpers needed

READ: ROMANS 16:1-16 The Helper, the Holy Spirit,... will teach you all things. John 14:26

TO some people, the term helper carries with it secondclass connotations. Classroom helpers assist trained teachers in their classes. Helpers assist trained electricians, plumbers, and lawyers on the job. Because they aren’t as skilled in the profession, they might be viewed as having less value. But everyone is needed to accomplish the task.

The apostle Paul had many helpers in his work of ministry. He listed them in his letter to Rome (ch. 16). He made special reference to Phoebe, who “has been a helper of many and of myself also” (v. 2). Priscilla and Aquila risked their own lives for Paul (vv. 3-4). And Mary, Paul said, labored much to us” (v. 6)

Helping is a spiritual gift, according to 1 Corinthians 12:28. Paul listed it among the gifts from the Holy Spirit that are given to believers in Christ’s body, the church. The gift of “helps” is just as needed as the others that are listed.

Even the Holy Spirit is called a “Helper.” Jesus said, “The Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you” (John 14:26).

In whatever ways the Holy Spirit, the Helper, has gifted you, let Him use you for His honor. — ANNE CETAS

Dear Lord, thank You for the gifts You have given me so that I might serve the body of Christ. Help me to be faithful to use my gifts to bring You glory. You are a necessary part of the whole.

©2015 ODB Ministries, 3000, Kraft Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49555-0001, USA. Used by permission. For this and other materials contact ODB Ministries at 322 P. Guevarra, San Juan City (Phils.); Tel.: 722-2010.