"But When the Helper Comes..."

We would like to begin at the end of Chapter 15 because for so many years growing up and later we were not very aware of the work of the Holy Spirit.  We had some knowledge but for some reason could not recall much teaching or discussion about the Holy Spirit or how to become more aware of his presence.  We did know of course that he had many jobs, but being a Helper was something we did not appreciate enough.  Jesus said in Chapter 16 that the Holy Spirit would "convict the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment."  If the world is to be convicted in this way, yes, we know that the apostles and early disciples definitely received him and many people were convicted, but how is the Holy Spirit working through us as Christians today to do this?  Is it through our lives, attitudes, words, good works?  We wish we understood more of the answer to all of this, but making an effort to be more and more aware of his presence might help us be more aware of his promptings for the right attitudes or words or works or in just day-to-day life situations.  Sometimes we say the right words and think, "where did that come from?" or without our realizing it, someone has overheard or noticed some behavior or attitude that we were not aware of, yet someone in the world may be convicted.  Now we appreciate the Holy Spirit even more than ever when we realize that he can often be our Helper when we are not even aware.   Thank you, Jesus, for sending the Helper.

Additional Resources:

John 16 NLT - “I have told you these things so that - Bible Gateway

Reading Along with the Gospel of John 16 RightNow Media