The Holy Spirit accompanies us and empowers us to carry out our appointed tasks. The more we ask, the more the Holy Spirit empowers us. God allows trials, persecutions, and difficulties to remind us to ask for help. Recall that when Peter and John were persecuted, they prayed, “Now Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” (Acts 4:29-30) Scripture records God's answer, “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” (Acts 4:31)

Jesus told us that in the world we would have tribulations, but that God would give us the Holy Spirit if we ask. Here are true riches, not material wealth or comfort, but the presence of God the Holy Spirit in us and with us and speaking through us in all our perils whether beaten with rods or stoned or shipwrecked or false brethren or our own countrymen.

Dear Heavenly Father,

God of times and God of seasons. Through all the trials of life, the storms, the valleys, and even the mountaintop experiences, I have seen the blessing of your faithfulness. In much and in lack, you remain my heart’s desire because if I have you I have everything I need. Help me to persevere and never lose sight of your face no matter what I face. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

When we face sickness, trial, or persecution, our temptation is to pray only for relief. Ask God instead to accomplish his discipleship purposes in you and through you. Before asking for relief, ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit to speak God's word with boldness in all circumstances.