Dericka Canada Cunningham, GBW Founder
July 25, 2022
This Week's Anchor
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and
be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will bein you.”
John 14:16-17 (NIV)
My mother and I have had several conversations recently about the presence of the moon. I know that sounds completely random, but my mom and I can talk on the phone for hours about nearly any topic. Nevertheless, we’ve recently shared a mutual sentiment of noticing the moon during the daytime more than what we can recall in the past. Now, I’m no astronomer (though I strongly identify as an admirer of astronomy), so I’m not sure if something has physically changed in our atmosphere, or if (more likely) my mom and I have grown to be more mindful over the years. Regardless of the reason, we both find ourselves impressed by the moon’s presence alongside our sun even when we aren’t consciously aware of it.
You’re probably reading this devotion wondering “where on earth is she taking us with this topic this week”, but as I often say, stay with me. By now you are more than likely aware of my ability to find spiritual inspiration in just about anything. And this week that inspiration came directly from our glowing moon as I pondered what I felt moved to share. I was driving in my car returning home last week, and as I turned into my driveway, I glanced up and noticed the moon boldly glaring back at me. I hadn’t noticed it in a while, but in that instance, I felt compelled by its presence, and the moon suddenly felt similar to the Holy Spirit. As I thought more about this ironic association, I was reminded of the moments when I don’t always notice or acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life.
We often place a lot of emphasis on studying and being in awe of our enormous sun, but the moon doesn’t get as much hype. Interestingly enough, we do the same with the Holy Spirit. For those of us who believe in the Trinity, we recognize that they are one of the same (commonly referred to as “God in three persons”, Matthew 28:19 NIV). Yet, over the years, I’ve come to realize the unique contribution and impact that each manifestation of God can have in our lives, particularly that of the Holy Spirit. Our anchor scripture this week highlights this relevance. It takes us to the moments before Jesus’ crucifixion. As Jesus comforts the disciples in predicting His impending death, He encourages them, “…I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth.” (John 14:16-17a, NIV) Later in this moment, Jesus, again, empowers the disciples and all of us by declaring, “but the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26, NIV).
Like the moon, we cannot discount the significant influence of the Holy Spirit. Just as the relatively small luminescent ball of cold rock can shift the tides, orient us to time, and impact Earth’s seasons, Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as a powerful presence in our lives with many benefits. The Holy Spirit contributes to our lives by:
Being a thread of connection with God and Jesus (v. 26)
Advocating for, protecting, and helping us (v.16, 26)
Comforting us and providing us with unexplainable peace (v.27)
Dwelling within and among us, being present with us continually (v.16)
Teaching us important spiritual and life lessons (v.26)
Revealing Divine purpose and reminding us of the Truth that anchors our lives (v.26)
So, as we enter this week, let us first slow down so that we can be mindful of all the beautiful manifestations of God in our lives—acknowledging, sensing, and embracing the abundant presence of the Holy Spirit that moves and accompanies us like a good and worthy friend.
Reflection
What is resonating for you about this scripture and/or this devotion?
In what ways do you notice the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life? Are there things you can do to acknowledge the Holy Spirit more?
What intention(s) do you want to set to connect and/or reconnect with being grounded this week?
Related Scriptures to Ground You Through this Week
John 15:26
Romans 8:23-27
Romans 15:13
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
Philippians 2:1-4
2 Thessalonians 2:15-16
My Through-the-Week Reflection Guide
A Song of Inspiration
Quote of Love & Liberation
"The most common way people give up their power
is by thinking they don't have any."
Alice Walker
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