Thursday, September 14, 2023
Although I like to think I’ve always known Jesus, now that I have a closer relationship with him, I’m definitely more aware of his presence in my life. That doesn’t mean it’s perfect. There are still times when I feel disconnected and lost. And like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh, I’m prone to think, “Why bother?”
Yet, it's during these times that I often feel a nudge that helps me realize I’m not making much effort to talk to God, or going to him in prayer. I’m confident this “nudge” comes from the Advocate Jesus promised us.
John 14:16-17
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. 17 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you.
Knowing Jesus and prioritizing our relationship with him is the key to knowing the Spirit. As we learned in last weekend’s message:
No Jesus = No Spirit
Know Jesus = Know Spirit
Knowing Jesus gives me and you a chance to know the Spirit and understand that he is helping us live our lives better. If you look up the definition of advocate, it literally means someone who wants to help you by speaking for you. Jesus made a way for us to have a relationship with the Father through his death on the cross. And although he left earth to be with the Father, he loved us so much he asked the Father to send the Advocate to live in us and guide us.
John 14:26
But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.
If we walk in step with him, the Holy Spirit can help us discern if things are of God or not, as well as teach and guide us when we go astray. During those times when I catch myself being an Eeyore and bringing everyone around me down, I have learned to lean into God. As I tune into God, I can often sense the Holy Spirit showing me where I’m focusing on earthly ways rather than trusting God’s ways. If I’m not careful, that quickly becomes anxiety, which can lead to depression—things I personally struggle with.
Fortunately, between having good people to talk to and medication that helps slow down my brain, I am able to pay attention to that presence within me. Because in a world that is anything but, God’s Spirit keeps me steady.
Questions:
Did you realize you have access to the Holy Spirit? How well do you know his voice? Do you have others surrounding you that you can talk to?
Next Steps:
Take time this week to light a candle to remind you of the access you have to the Holy Spirit. Spend a few minutes each day becoming aware of his presence. Join a Group to connect with others and grow in the knowledge of God.
Prayer:
God, I'm so thankful you sent the Holy Spirit to live within me. With him, I know I’m never alone and I always have your Son with me. You have made him known to me so I could have a relationship with him. I pray that anyone who may need help, mentally, physically, or spiritually, can find your strength within them and reach out to someone. Thank you for allowing me to have a voice within your church to help others with the words that you give me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
John 14:26
But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.
This post was written by Casey Stengel, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.