John 16:4b–15

The Trinity—The Triune God. Most believers are well acquainted with God the Father, and many have a deep understanding of God the Son. Jesus, the second person of the Trinity, is the One we especially celebrate during seasons like Christmas and Easter. Many believers understand God the Father and God the Son, but fewer grasp how to abide with the Holy Spirit—the often-misunderstood person within the Trinity.

Much of what we know about who the Holy Spirit is—and what His role entails—comes from the New Testament. In His final days on earth, Jesus offered a powerful and detailed teaching about the coming of the Holy Spirit. In His farewell discourse—some of the last words He shared with His disciples—Jesus gave both them and us a clear picture of the Spirit's role. In this passage, we see two primary functions of the Holy Spirit: His work in the world and His work in the lives of believers.

His Work in the World (v. 8–11)

One of the Holy Spirit’s key roles is to act as a witness to the world. He testifies to the truth of who the Father and the Son are. In other words, the Holy Spirit directly confronts the sin of unbelief— the refusal to believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, sent by the Father for the salvation of the world.

The Holy Spirit also reveals the truth and power of Christ’s death and resurrection. He affirms that Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and ascension were not random events, but the fulfillment of the Father’s plan to defeat sin and death once and for all.

Through His presence and power, the Spirit convicts the world of its sin and opens eyes to the righteousness of Christ. He discerns the hearts of humanity—what is good, what is sinful, and what the eternal consequences are. He doesn't simply expose wrongdoing; He lovingly draws us toward the truth of the gospel and the grace of Christ.

His Work in the Witness (v. 12–15)

The Spirit doesn’t only work in the world; He works within those who believe in Christ. He indwells us, empowers us, and directs our lives. The Holy Spirit is not a distant presence, but God Himself, actively guiding those who follow Jesus.

Our role? To listen. To yield. To walk in step with Him.

As we do, the Spirit bears witness through our lives. He continually points us to Jesus, reminding us of His words, revealing His will, and transforming us into His image. The Spirit does not speak on His own; He speaks what He hears from the Father and the Son. His mission is to glorify Christ. As we surrender to Him, our lives begin to do the same.

This is the beautiful gift Jesus promised: not that we would walk alone, but that God would dwell in us. Through the Holy Spirit, we’re not only given guidance—we’re given God’s presence. As we abide with the Spirit, He shapes our thoughts, redirects our desires, and transforms our character to reflect Christ.

So let us be people who don’t just acknowledge the Spirit, but abide with Him. Let us welcome His conviction, trust His leading, and respond to His voice. And, as we do, may our lives increasingly reflect the Son through the power of the Spirit, for the glory of the Father.

Join us from June 2-June 27 as we dive into God's Word together and discover His design for the family—rooted in truth, grace, and Gospel purpose with our Summer is for Family Bible Reading Plan. This 4-week Bible reading plan follows our CATM sermon series Summer is for Family, exploring what the Bible has to say about the theology of family, the mission of the family, Christ-centered relationships and Spirit-led leadership within the family. We pray this Bible Reading Plan will deepen your understanding of God’s heart for the home and help you live out your faith where it matters most!

Romans 12:3-8

Someone once said that “the sum is greater than its parts.” That is true of a number of things, especially of casseroles. You could eat each ingredient of your favorite casserole, but you don’t experience the full effect until they are combined and consumed together. 

The same can be said of intentional relationships in the Church. While each church may emphasize specific values or ministries, the church as a whole is designed to function as one body made up of many members, each playing a vital role (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). One of the most crucial things that must be cultivated and practiced in the church is authentic, intentional relationships (Romans 12:10). As followers of Christ, we are not meant to go through life alone (Hebrews 10:24-25). We are called to be a part of intentional relationships with others who desire to follow Christ (John 13:34-35). 

In intentional relationships, there are four parts that we must consider in order for them to be effective in loving God and loving others:

Authentic Humility (Romans 12:4)

As we strive to become more like Christ for the glory of God and the advancement of the gospel, we should expect to face opposition (2 Timothy 3:12). While we long to serve others, obstacles will arise. God's Word reminds us not to be surprised when trials come our way (1 Peter 4:12). These barriers may come from situations, people, or the enemy himself, all seeking to hinder the proclamation of the gospel. Yet more often than not, we find that our greatest obstacle is ourselves—our own sin and selfishness that resist the work of the gospel in our hearts and through our lives (Romans 7:18-19).

To confront this, we must be willing to examine ourselves honestly and view our hearts as God sees them through His Word (2 Corinthians 13:5). We must recognize our natural inclination toward selfishness and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal it to us through prayer and Scripture (Psalm 139:23-24). Then, by His strength, we are empowered to put our sin to death and deny ourselves daily (Romans 8:13).

It is in this posture of surrender and humility that we are able to engage in relationships with others in a way that reflects the love of Christ and brings glory to God.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus[.]”

Philippians 2:3-5

Gospel Identity (Romans 12:4-5)

Our desire for intentional relationships is deeply rooted in the gospel. We have hope and a new identity because of Jesus’s finished work on the cross and His resurrection (Romans 5:1–2). Through faith in Him, we now belong to God; we confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His saving power (Romans 10:9).

When Jesus walked the earth, He had one physical body. Now, on this side of the cross and the resurrection, He is represented by a spiritual body. In Christ, there is one body: the Church. Scripture tells us that there is one body and one Spirit, just as we were called to one hope in Christ (Ephesians 4:4–5). As His body, we are set apart to make His name known and live out His Kingdom purposes (1 Peter 2:9).

So, what does that mean for us? It means that, as members of the body of Christ, we are called to care deeply for one another (1 Corinthians 12:25–27). Whether we’re participating in a Small Group, serving in Kids or Student Ministry, or stepping out on mission, we are actively declaring with our lives that we belong to Jesus—and that we are committed to His people.

Spiritual Ability (Romans 12:6-8)

Though we share one gospel identity as the body of Christ, God has given each of us different gifts. Just as the human body has many parts with unique functions, so does the Church. Scripture reminds us that there are varieties of gifts— but the same Spirit who empowers them all (1 Corinthians 12:4–6). Whether it’s teaching, preaching, serving, or other forms of ministry, these gifts are given by the Holy Spirit to build up the Church. They help the body function in unity, grow in maturity, and move forward according to God’s Word and the power of His Spirit (Romans 12:4–8). By the same Spirit who gives the gifts, we are also spiritually equipped and empowered to use them for God’s glory and the good of His people (2 Peter 1:3).

Passionate Activity (Romans 12:9-13)

Finally, intentional relationships require passionate, Spirit-led action— or zeal (Romans 12:11). God has graciously given each of us spiritual gifts through the Holy Spirit for the purpose of building up the body of Christ so it functions as it should (1 Corinthians 12:4–7). But in using these gifts, our attitudes matter. If God gives generously and joyfully, we should reflect that same posture. Our gifts are most effective when they are offered with joy, eagerness, and a willing heart— ready to love the Lord, love others, and serve faithfully (1 Peter 4:10–11).

Intentional relationships are the heartbeat of a thriving church, where humility, identity, gifts, and passion come together to reflect Christ’s love. As we commit to these principles, we not only grow closer to God but also build a community that truly embodies His Kingdom on earth.

If you’ve been around Church at The Mill for a while, you’ve probably heard the phrase: Gather, Grow, Give, Go. You might’ve even seen it on the walls or printed in church materials. But it is more than a nice-sounding, alliterated slogan. This phrase is the heartbeat of our mission and discipleship strategy. Each element reflects a step in the life of a Christ-follower, moving us toward a deeper relationship with Jesus and a greater impact in His Kingdom.

Each word carries meaning and purpose—but let’s focus on the third step: GIVE.

Why Give?

Giving should be a central part of our Christian lives as it reflects the very heart of God. In Acts 20:35, Jesus Himself reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Our call to give is tied directly to who we are and why we exist.

Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” In other words, we were created to serve. It’s not just something we do—it’s who we are as followers of Jesus. We give because we were designed to!

Giving Financially

We give financially as a form of worship and trust. Every good thing we have is from the Lord (James 1:17). When we give back a portion of what He’s entrusted to us, we’re making a declaration: God is our provider, not our paycheck (Proverbs 3:9-10, Malachi 3:10). One way we can steward our finances for the glory of God is through financial giving.

Offerings fund the mission of the church—supporting ministry to kids and students, reaching our local community, caring for families, and sending missionaries abroad (2 Corinthians 9:6–7, Philippians 4:18).

Your giving helps make real ministry happen every day—from VBS/VBX for kids to international mission trips, from student camp to Sunday worship services. Every dollar given fuels ministry with purpose.

Giving Through Serving

But giving doesn’t stop with money—it also means giving our time and talents that the Lord has given us (1 Peter 4:10). Serving is where faith is put into action (James 2:17). Whether you’ve been following Christ for years or just recently began your journey, there’s a place for you to step in and serve.

Have a heart for the next generation? Our Kids Ministry and Student Ministry are always welcoming new leaders who want to invest in young lives and model what it looks like to follow Jesus.

Enjoy providing a warm smile and a cup of coffee? Consider serving in our Goodtree Café, where hospitality meets ministry and every latte can be an open door to connection.

Love welcoming people or helping them feel like they belong? The Connections team is a perfect fit. From greeting guests to helping with parking or seating, every role matters.

Gifted musically or technically? Our Worship Ministry and Technical Arts team use their gifts to lead us into God’s presence each week. You don’t have to be a professional—you just need to be willing to grow and be a part of the team that desires to lead people in authentic worship to the Lord.

Passionate about missions? We offer both local and international opportunities to GO and serve—just like Jesus called us to. Whether it’s across the street or across the world, God uses ordinary people to carry out His extraordinary mission.

Giving Glorifies God

Our giving is ultimately about glorifying God. When we give, we step into the good works He has prepared for us. We reflect His generous nature (Matthew 5:16, 2 Corinthians 9:11–13).

Giving also shapes our hearts. It grows our faith, strengthens our trust, and reminds us that life is not about accumulation but about stewardship (Matthew 6:21, 1 Timothy 6:18–19). It’s not about how much we have, but how we use what we’ve been given for His glory and for the good of others.

So why give?

Because we were created to. Because it reflects the very heart of God. It makes a difference in our lives and in the lives of others (Galatians 6:9–10).

We are not just a gathering place; we’re a serving people. Whether it’s changing diapers in the nursery, running slides behind the scenes, leading worship, pouring coffee, discipling students, or sharing the gospel across the globe, there’s a place for you. We don’t need everyone to do everything, we need everyone to just do something.

Let’s live out our purpose. Let’s GIVE—joyfully, sacrificially, and faithfully. Because when we do, we step into who God created us to be.

Here are some short prayers written for the many beautiful kinds of mothers—new moms, grieving moms, spiritual mothers, waiting moms, and grandmothers.

For New Mothers

Lord, thank you for the miracle of new life and the tender beginnings of motherhood. In every sleepless night and uncertain step, give her strength and peace. Let her know you are near, delighting in every moment with her. Surround her with support, joy, and the gentle reminder: she’s doing beautifully. Remind her that you are her rock—steadfast and unshakable through every challenge and triumph.

He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.

• Isaiah 40:11

For Grieving Mothers

Lord, our Comforter, be near to the mom whose heart is heavy with loss. You see every tear, you feel every ache. Wrap her in your love today. May her memories be honored, her grief be held gently, and her pain be overshadowed by your grace.

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

• Psalm 34:18

For Spiritual Mothers

Lord, thank you for women who mother through faith, encouragement, and prayer. Their love changes lives in quiet, powerful ways. Bless them with joy for the seeds they’ve sown. Let them feel the deep impact of their care—even if they’ve never held a child of their own.

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

• Proverbs 31:26

For Waiting Mothers

Lord, you are our source of hope. Be with the woman waiting—for a child, for healing, for prayers answered. In the silence, cover her in peace. In the ache, bring comfort. Remind her that the waiting is not wasted, and that you are still writing a beautiful story.

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

• Romans 12:12

For Grandmothers

Lord, thank you for grandmothers—for their warmth, wisdom, and faithfulness. Bless them for the love they’ve given and the lives they’ve shaped. May they feel honored and cherished today. Let their hearts be full as they watch generations bloom.

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.

• Psalm 78:4

This plan is designed to build your trust in God, strengthen your soul to persevere, and anchor your heart in His perfect peace. Each day’s reading will prepare you to stand firm in faith, no matter what trials may come. Let’s journey through God’s Word together — fixing our eyes on the Lamb who is worthy and holding fast to the unshakable hope we have in Him!