The gift

12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

Main point: See the Holy Spirit as a gift from Jesus

I hate goodbyes. This is nothing new, but since I was a child I hated when things had to come to an end, friends had to leave or the party was over. There’s something inside of us that wants everything and everyone to stay just as they are. However, we come to a point of realization that goodbyes and change are an inevitable part of life

In John 16, Jesus seems to be preparing the disciples for saying goodbye. They are, rightfully so, taken aback by his comments and saddened that someone they’ve been in close contact with and placed their hope in for some time is planning to leave them. Jesus offers comfort to the disciples and that same comfort is extended to us today. The amazing truth is that comfort is not only words of encouragement that He’d be with them again some day, but also most importantly the person of the Holy Spirit.

The Spirit of Truth or Holy Spirit is a gift from God and our designated helper/advocate (verse 7). Jesus speaks of the amazing benefit of the Spirit coming and wants us to grasp the same truth shared with the apostles. Believers, who have simply placed their faith in Christ, are not left alone but have been given the gift of a promised helper, who will lead and guide us.

Deeper Focus:

- What are some areas you are in need of help or direction currently?

- Do you believe that Jesus sent us a helper, as we read in this chapter?

- Let’s focus on and pray that Jesus’ promised helper, the Holy Spirit, will provide is with comfort, help and direction today and throughout 2020