How can we trust the Holy Spirit to speak through us in trials? Setting the Scene • Mark 13 records Jesus’ prophetic briefing about coming persecutions. • Verse 11 is a direct promise from the Lord: “But when they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand what to say. Instead, speak whatever is given you at that time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” Focusing on the Promise • “Do not worry beforehand” — The command removes the burden of self-reliance. • “Whatever is given you” — God supplies precise words, not mere feelings. • “It is not you… but the Holy Spirit” — The speaker is present, personal, and active. Who Is the Holy Spirit? • The Spirit of truth (John 14:17) who cannot lie. • The divine Teacher who “will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you” (John 14:26). • The inspirer of Scripture (2 Peter 1:21), guaranteeing He never contradicts His own Word. Why We Can Trust His Voice in Trials • Jesus authenticated the promise; His authority is absolute. • The same Spirit who filled prophets and apostles now indwells every believer (Romans 8:9). • Historical proof: – Peter, “filled with the Holy Spirit,” answered hostile rulers with bold clarity (Acts 4:8-12). – Stephen, “full of the Holy Spirit,” spoke with wisdom none could refute (Acts 6:10; 7:2-53). • The Spirit’s reliability rests on His unchanging character (Malachi 3:6). Practical Ways to Rely on the Spirit’s Words 1. Abide in Scripture daily. The Spirit most readily brings to mind what is already stored in the heart (Psalm 119:11). 2. Cultivate surrender. A yielded will sharpens spiritual hearing (Romans 12:1-2). 3. Reject anxiety as soon as opposition rises; anxiety drowns out the still, sure voice (Philippians 4:6-7). 4. Expect timely provision, not rehearsed scripts. The promise is “at that time.” 5. Speak with confidence in the moment, then leave the outcome to God (2 Timothy 1:7). Stories of Scripture that Model This Trust • Moses—God supplied words despite Moses’ fears (Exodus 4:12). • Jeremiah—The Lord “put My words in your mouth” for confrontations with kings (Jeremiah 1:9). • Paul—During trial, “the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message would be fully proclaimed” (2 Timothy 4:17). Encouragement for Today • The Holy Spirit who empowered saints of old is unchanged, present, and fully committed to glorifying Christ through your testimony. • When trials arrive, lean into the promise: He will speak—clearly, faithfully, and powerfully—through you. |
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