Lean On Me
I am the world’s worst at remembering lyrics to songs. It’s not surprising when I can’t remember the lyrics to basic songs like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” “Happy Birthday,” or even that worship song with the same chorus you sing 1,000 times during a service. I don’t know why—I LOVE music! Just ask Christy. The only problem is, much like my inability to remember lyrics, I often forget song titles, artists, and everything in between. I just know I like it when I hear it. Have you ever felt that way?
There is a song that I love that will randomly bounce around in my head and eventually come out in song: “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. Come on, sing it with me!
“Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on”
Full disclosure: I was only able to remember the first three lines before needing help with the rest.
This song reminds me of a lesson Jesus teaches us when it comes to the Holy Spirit. Jesus shows us the importance of leaning on and depending on the Spirit. Here are a few examples that show how closely tied the Holy Spirit is to Jesus’ journey:
The Spirit caused Mary to conceive. (Luke 1:30–35)
The Spirit descended on Jesus at His baptism. (Matthew 3:13–17)
The Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness. (Matthew 4:1)
The Spirit empowered Jesus. (Luke 4:14)
Jesus speaks of the Spirit at the Last Supper:
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.” John 16:13–14 ESV
Lastly, Jesus tells us it is better for Him to go so that the Spirit could come:
“Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.” John 16:7 ESV
Jesus, although fully God, showed us a dependence on the Holy Spirit. This is a beautiful picture of our triune God. The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Spirit is not the Father. Yet each is fully God. One God revealed in three persons.
Jesus modeled a life dependent on the Spirit. He did this to show us how we are meant to live dependent on Him, too.
Maybe you need a little help today. It could be wisdom and direction, strength and patience, or even comfort from Heaven. Whatever it is that you need today, you can find it in the Holy Spirit.
Lean on Him today.
Jesus, I pray for those reading this devotional who need extra strength today. Remind them of Your presence. Help us grow in our dependence on You. Amen.
