An older couple who had never flown before decided that they would get on a plane in order to make the long journey to see their grandchildren. Their flight started out smoothly, but after a while the pilot’s voice came over the intercom: “This is your captain speaking. Ladies and gentlemen, I feel that I ought to let you know that one of our three engines has failed. However, there is no cause for alarm. This plane is entirely airworthy flying on two engines, but I regret to say that we will arrive at our destination one hour later than planned.”

About a half hour later, the pilot spoke to the passengers once again: “This is your captain speaking. I regret to tell you that we have lost the second of our three engines. But let me assure you that we have every expectation of making a safe and normal landing at our destination. However, we will be three hours late in arriving.”

At this news, Grandma turned to Grandpa with a hint of irritation in her voice and said, “If that third engine goes out, we’ll be up here all night!”

Of course, an airplane can’t fly without an engine. Nor can a Christian operate without the Holy Spirit.

“Do not quench the Spirit.”—1 Thessalonians 5:19.