Say a Little Prayer

“The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you.” — John 14:26

Have you ever had someone unexpectedly come to mind—a friend, family member, or even an acquaintance? It feels random, yet they linger in your thoughts, almost as if they’re quietly knocking. Sometimes we brush it off, but what if it’s not just a passing thought?

This happens to me often.

Once, a friend kept coming to mind. I had a persistent urge to message her but kept on putting it off. Weeks later, I found out she had a miscarriage. I felt so guilty. It really weighed on me and I wondered if it was the Holy Spirit prompting me to reach out to her.

After that, I vowed to act every time someone came to mind. But… as you have probably guessed, I failed again. 

Not too long ago, my uncle crossed my mind. I ignored the nudge, only to find out later that he’d been diagnosed with an incurable condition.

Each time I’ve delayed or ignored these prompts, my heart has felt so troubled. So heavy. 

Why do I ignore these nudges? Sometimes it’s busyness, overthinking (“What if…?”), or fear of awkwardness. (“What do I say?!“) Other times, well…honestly, it’s simply laziness. Eep.

Yet the Holy Spirit is always there—guiding, helping, and gently urging us to act. I’m reminded of God’s patience, love, and forgiveness. Isn’t it comforting to know we have a God who understands our weaknesses?

“Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” — Romans 8:26

Jesus sent the Holy Spirit not just to help us, but to help us help others.