Whenever we make major changes in our life in order to make progress or grow in our personal or spiritual life, or to seek to serve God more enthusiastically, chances are we will face some opposition and flak.

On one occasion I was facing an uncomfortable amount of flak because of a major change of direction I had made in my life, which I believed was the right thing for me to do. However, the flak I received came not from “the enemy without” but from opposition within. As the saying goes, “Christians are the only army that shoots its wounded.”

When I was feeling the strain and feeling afraid, I pictured in my mind’s eye that I was a pilot flying through unfriendly territory with a lot of flak coming at me. But sitting beside me was my co-pilot, Jesus. Immediately I knew I would be safe and that he would guide me safely through the storm. And he did. And I am where I am today because of it.

It helps to remember that no matter what we are going through, if we are a true Christian and put our trust in God, his presence and Spirit are always with us. A part of the work of the Holy Spirit (God’s Spirit) is that he is not only our Comforter, but is one who is called alongside to help us in every situation in which we find ourselves. Note, too, that the Holy Spirit is called alongside to be our helper—not to do for us what we are responsible for doing ourselves.

Suggested prayer: “Dear Jesus God, when I need to make choices or changes that I believe are necessary and right, please give me the courage to make them regardless of the opposition or flak I might receive. And help me always to ‘see’ your being with me. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

1. John 14:15-17 (TLB)(NLT).