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Reading for the week: John 14 (come back to this reading throughout the week)

If you’ve ever felt discouraged as a Christian—like you’re trying to do all the right things but power is missing—you’re not alone. As I shared Sunday in John 14–16, the Christian life is never meant to run on human willpower. God never intended for us to be spiritually “successful,” victorious, or fearless in witness while remaining ignorant of the ministry of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus promised something astonishing: “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever” (John 14:16). Notice the tenderness of that promise. The Spirit would not merely visit occasionally; He would dwell—so Jesus would be truly present within His people. Jesus even says, “I will not leave you as orphans” (John 14:18). Without the Holy Spirit, we would be helpless. But with Him, we are not alone.

Not only does the Spirit restore the presence of Jesus in us—He also represents the person of Jesus to us. Jesus calls Him the Spirit of truth (John 14:17). And later Jesus says the Spirit will teach, remind, and bring Jesus’ words back to our minds (John 14:26). If you’ve ever wondered why God brings Scripture to mind at the exact moment you need it—this is part of His promised work.

And then there’s the practical side that we cannot miss: the Spirit also releases the power of Jesus through us. We don’t convict the world. We don’t generate spiritual life. The Spirit convicts, guides, and empowers—while we yield.

Here’s the question I want to leave with you: Have you made room for the Holy Spirit to be Lord in every area of your life? Or are there “closets” of unconfessed sin, guarded preferences, or neglected obedience?

Personal challenge (do this today, and repeat it this week)

  1. Read John 14 slowly, and pray once: “Holy Spirit, restore the presence of Jesus in me.”
  2. Confess one thing you’ve been withholding from God.
  3. Ask: “Holy Spirit, teach me and remind me—so I can live, speak, and serve in Your power.”