“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.” (John 16:7-8, ESV)
“What do you mean you’re leaving? How can you leave us now? What will we do without you?”
Imagine the conversation taking place as Jesus was trying to prepare the disciples for what was going to happen. He knew his death on the cross was coming. As they enjoyed their last supper together, He spent time reassuring them that they would not be abandoned. They knew what it was like to spend time with Jesus in person. How could a helper take His place?
In the Old Testament God spoke to mankind directly through visible signs (cloud of smoke by day, pillar of fire at night.) He often spoke directly to prophets in an audible voice leaving no doubt what He wanted His people to do. (Exodus 3)
However, a new way of communicating to believers became prominent after the resurrection of Christ. Each believer would now have access to God through Jesus. Those who had accepted Jesus as their Savior would have the Holy Spirit as their advocate. He would plead their case to the Father.
Unlike before there would no longer be an audible voice of God speaking to prophets. It would be the still small voice of the Spirit speaking to the hearts of individuals. Drawing them to God and urging them to live wisely. The Holy Spirit is a gentleman though. He doesn’t scream to get his voice heard. It takes effort to turn down the “noise” of our lives to hear Him. When bad choices are made – He convicts us. He never abuses his power though. We always have a choice. When we ignore His leading, we grieve the Spirit. (Ephesians 4:30)
Have you ever been praying and have a sense of peace wash over you? You might have even felt a gentle hug in your spirit. That’s the Holy Spirit being our intercessor – sharing our burdens with Jesus in Heaven. And Jesus through the Holy Spirit comforts us with that “peace that passeth all understanding.” Our prayer has been heard. We are not alone.
Sometimes life devastates us. We may not know what to pray or we’re unable to pray – we just cry or groan in our spirit. In moments of weakness, the Holy Spirit advocates for us. He understands our tears and turns them into words (prayers) offered up to Jesus on our behalf. (Romans 8:26)
“Lord remind us that even though we can’t see You like the disciples did – You are with us. Teach us to call on the Comforter not the world to ease our pain. Illuminate our prayers with wisdom.”
For His Glory
Laura Holmes www.ephraimministries.org
TRBC Women’s Life
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