“Your life is going to be difficult, and I’m leaving you.” What kind of person would say this to their closest friends?

The person speaking is Jesus! He told his followers that they would be tempted to fall away, they would be rejected by the religious establishment, and people would attempt to kill them (John 16:1-6). He not only told them he was leaving them but that it was going to be good thing!

Can you picture how his followers felt at this moment? They had seen him heal the sick, feed 5,000, calm the seas, and even raise the dead. How could it be good that he was leaving them?

The rationale for this was that he would be sending them the Advocate, the Holy Spirit. The word “advocate” describes one who comes alongside as a comforter and counselor. Only Jesus could say, with any credibility, that the presence of the Spirit would be better than his physical presence with them.

The Holy Spirit would not only be with them but in them. Think about it. The Spirit of the all-knowing, all-powerful God of the universe would dwell in them and be with each of them every moment of every day. It was truly good that Jesus was leaving. Not just good, but amazing!

The same is true of you. Your life is going to be difficult but he is not going to leave you without help!

Jesus, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to live in me and to guide me today and every day. I confess I doubt and resist your direction more often than I should. I recommit to trusting you and your work in my life. Amen.

Go Deeper — As a Christ follower, you have God’s Spirit living in you. Will you allow him to direct and empower you in each moment and circumstance you face today and the rest of this week?



Tags: Life in the Spirit John 16
Photo Credit: Helena Lopes