Read John 16:5-7 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
1. How were the disciples feeling at this point?
2. Why did Jesus say it was better for Him to leave?
3. Read verse 7 in a few different translations. What names do you see for the Holy Spirit?
Reflect
As Jesus continued His final conversation with His disciples before His arrest, He said something unexpected: It was better for them that He would leave. What could be better than God’s presence as a human, walking with people, teaching and healing and performing miracles in person?
But when Jesus’ left, He gave His disciples something even better. God’s Spirit lives in every believer. He is our paraclete, a Greek word meaning Advocate, Helper, Counselor, and Comforter. He’s the third person of the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit), one with God, eternally existent in perfect unity as one God, but distinct in personhood and role.
It’s okay if this is hard to wrap your head around. God doesn’t expect you to know everything about Him. Jesus’ words to His disciples were comforting as He reassured them they’d never be alone, even after He left. The Holy Spirit lives in every believer everywhere. He wants to help you, guide you, teach you, and comfort you.
Respond
What has been your understanding of the Holy Spirit? How has today’s reading changed or enhanced your view of Him? Spend some time in prayer asking God to reveal more of Himself to you as you read more about Him this week.