Our Gospel lesson is John 16:7-15, taken today from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB).
Nevertheless, I am telling you the truth. It is for your benefit that I go away, because if I don’t go away the Counselor will not come to you. If I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world about sin, righteousness, and judgment: About sin, because they do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see me; and about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged. “I still have many things to tell you, but you can’t bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth. For he will not speak on his own, but he will speak whatever he hears. He will also declare to you what is to come. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything the Father has is mine. This is why I told you that he takes from what is mine and will declare it to you.
Jesus tells us the Holy Spirit will come after He returns to the Father, not as a replacement, but to support us as we continue His work. God’s plan doesn’t end when Jesus ascends, there is much left for us to accomplish with His help. That assistance comes through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus says the Holy Spirit will “convict the world about sin, righteousness, and judgment” (v. 8). In other words, we will know God’s will for us and be able to share it in turn. Through the presence of God’s spirit we are strengthened and encouraged to accomplish the tasks God gives us.
Knowing the Holy Spirit in our lives gives us the assurance of His confidence in us. God wants us to succeed! Trust in His love and go to share that blessing with the world.
Gracious God, our abilities are a gift from You. Help us to use them effectively for the work of Your kingdom through Your Holy Spirit, that all Your children may be blessed. Amen.