The Better Life

Jesus came to save sinners: to destroy the devil’s works and fulfill the law. He also spoke about a hunger and thirst only He could satisfy. Jesus said, “I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

The key to this better life is the Holy Spirit, who Jesus said His followers would receive: 

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth… he dwells with you and will be in you.” (John 14:16-17)

Jesus describes His influence as a directional and motivating force:

"The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8)

Imagine you were one of Jesus’ disciples and He told you of His coming death, resurrection and return to heaven. How would you feel? He told them:

"…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 go, I will send him to you." (John 16:7)

He was talking about the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God, part of the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit). 

When is the Holy Spirit given?

Ephesians 1:13-14 tells us that, “Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption…” Romans 8:9 also tells us that the Holy Spirit is received the moment you believe in Jesus.

What does the Holy Spirit do?

He comforts us (John 14:16); prays for us (Romans 8:26); and guides us to the truth (John 16:13). These are just a few things He does for us. He is God at work inside of us.

Why is it important to obey the command to be filled with the Holy Spirit?

Ephesians 5:18 directs us, "be filled with the Spirit.” We can’t effectively live the Christian life without the power of the Holy Spirit working to show us where we fall short and where we can spread the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8). Because He is a person, we can “grieve” (Ephesians 4:30) and “quench” (1 Thessalonians 5:19) the Holy Spirit’s influence in our lives.

Do you want to know more about the Holy Spirit? We know it can be confusing and a little strange to think about.

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