Before going to the Father, Jesus made His disciples a promise that comforted them: He would not leave them alone. The Holy Spirit would be God’s presence with them every day.
Another Comforter
Jesus said: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (John 14:16). The Holy Spirit helps us understand Scripture, convicts us of sin, comforts us in suffering and gives us strength to witness about Jesus.
He is not an impersonal force, but God Himself, working in our hearts with gentleness and patience.
The fruit of the Spirit
The Spirit’s presence is seen in our character: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities are not produced by our own effort; they grow over time as we allow God to work in us.
For reflection
Which part of the fruit of the Spirit would you like to see grow most in your life? Begin each day this week with a short prayer, asking God to fill you with His Spirit.
Bible verses are quoted from the King James Version.