Never Alone: The Promise of the Holy Spirit

DEVOTION • “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18).

Read time: 2 min

In John 14:18, Jesus promises, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” This assurance is given in the context of His impending departure from His disciples. Jesus knows that at His death, they will feel abandoned. He knows that even after His resurrection and ascension, they will feel weak and inadequate to carry on His mission. Jesus knows that you and I will sometimes feel the same way.

In verses 15-18, Jesus promises the indwelling presence of God through the Holy Spirit. He assures us that if we love Him and keep His commandments, He will ask the Father to give us the Helper, the Spirit of truth, to be with us forever. The world cannot receive the Spirit, but those who love and obey Jesus are indwelt, assisted, and empowered.

What a comfort it is to trust Jesus’ promise: that even though Jesus left us to go to the Father, His presence in the person of the Holy Spirit will be sent to abide with us wherever we go. You are never alone; the Holy Spirit is with you, guiding and comforting you every step of the way.

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Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit who abides with me always, guiding and comforting me in every step of my journey. Amen. ❖