Today’s Reading: John 16:12-15
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”
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Jesus’ greatest gift to you is not earthly presents but his eternal presence. He promised he would be with you—even to the close of the age. That promise is fulfilled when, at the moment of salvation, the Spirit of truth comes to you.
Notice Jesus called him the Spirit of truth. He wants to guide you into all truth. There is absolute truth in the world; the Father ordered it that way.
Jesus is that truth.
If you are truly seeking him with all your heart, you will be guided into all truth. You will deny the lie of this world that truth is whatever you believe it to be or that truth is a social construct. Rather, you will understand the difference between right and wrong and be able to discern good from evil. Absolute truth will form the foundation of your faith.
The Spirit of truth does not speak on his own authority. He hears from Jesus, and Jesus speaks through him. The Spirit only speaks what Jesus tells him.
The Helper does not want any attention. He wishes to point people to Jesus and for him alone to be exalted. He yearns for you to see that Jesus is the King of kings. He longs for you to believe that one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord.
The Holy Spirit knows the future and how the world will end. He reveals insights about future events—especially Jesus’ second coming— through the Word. Though you should never attempt to predict the time or date of Christ’s return, you are told to look at the times and seasons and discern how they fit with his revelations.
The Helper not only knows the world’s future, but also discerns your future. He is aware of where your life is headed. Perhaps he will reveal it to you.
Most often, though, he will not.
Nothing in your life is catching the Helper by surprise. He will guide you with every step you take. You do not need to worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s troubles are enough for today. The Holy Spirit is guiding you along the right path and is watching over every step you take. You can be sure his plans for you are good.
Do you need truth today? Seek the Holy Spirit of truth. He will reveal it to you.
Do you want to glorify Jesus with all your words and works? That is the Helper’s desire as well. Seek the Holy Spirit of truth. He will show you how to glorify Jesus.
The Spirit’s presence and guidance is Jesus’ greatest gift to you.
Rest peacefully and securely today in him.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]