Monday, July 11, 2022

“Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

John 16:7-8

In the gospel of John, we read of Jesus’ baptism. We learn the names of the first disciples. Jesus Christ teaches. He heals. He performs miracles. In the beginning of this sixteenth chapter, Jesus warns and comforts his disciples. This passage details his preparation for his departure. Jesus issues some warnings that they would remember later. He doesn’t want them to be stunned by the lies that would be told surrounding their ministry. He also wanted them to know the breadth or scope of their enemies’ motivations. Jesus acknowledges the disciples’ sorrow and shares that He must go away to the one who sent him. Our Lord declares that His departure is necessary. His departure is to their advantage – for their good. If He doesn’t go away, the Comforter or the Helper will not come. And when He has come, He will convict the world of its sin and of righteousness.

PRAYER: Lord, I thank you for reminding me that your leaving this world was for my good. Thank you for not leaving me helpless or hopeless. I praise you for your Holy Spirit who brings to the forefront my unbelief and convicts me of sin. I’m grateful that conviction has driven me to the cross and to salvation. I praise you for your Holy Spirit who also convicts me of righteousness and points me to you as the standard of righteousness. Thank you for being my comfort and my help. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen