The Helper

"Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send Him to you. And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment… 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…" John 16:7-8,13 (ESV)

Jesus spoke these words to His disciples as He prepared to go to the cross. They were filled with sorrow at the thought of Him leaving. I imagine what it must have been like to be in that room, listening as He said something like, "Guys, you don't understand—if I don't go, the Helper won't come. The Holy Spirit is His name, and you desperately need Him." I can almost hear the urgency in His voice. He deeply wanted His disciples to understand how incredible this gift would be, and how much they would need the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is the Helper and the Comforter. How amazing it is that now, as born-again believers in Jesus, we have the Holy Spirit with us every moment—24/7—and also living inside of us? He is always there to share God's thoughts, His words, His convictions of sin, and His motivation to do what is right. Jesus died not only so we could be forgiven, but also so that we could have the constant presence of the Holy Spirit living within us.

When I read the Old Testament and feel frustrated by the repeated idolatry and sin of the people, I often wonder how difficult it must have been for them to try to follow God's laws without the Holy Spirit dwelling inside them. Under the New Covenant, inaugurated by Jesus' death and resurrection, we now have so much more available to us. We have the Helper—God's own Spirit—living with us and within us every single day.

God sent the Helper because we truly need help—daily. But how aware are you of the Holy Spirit in your everyday life? Do you hear His voice speaking to you, guiding your thoughts? Scripture says we have the mind of Christ, meaning His thoughts are available to us if we pause, listen, and engage in prayer. Are you aware of His gentle nudges—or sometimes even His obvious direction? His help is available, but we must desire it. We must desire Him.

Each day, my husband and I begin by quieting ourselves in gratitude. As we thank the Lord, we invite Him to speak—to share His thoughts with us. Gratitude is like the password into His Presence, and He always responds. This begins a conversation that can last all day long.

Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise! Psalm 95:2 (ESV)

I encourage you: take full advantage of the Holy Spirit who is with you to help, comfort, and guide you through every moment of your life. His resources are endless. When you're tired, He helps. When you're tempted—He strengthens. When you're lonely—He comforts. He is like a well that never runs dry. Jesus did not leave us alone when He left. He left us with One who would give us constant help and comfort if we would only believe and receive what He offers.