When my friend was 12, he got lost in the woods on a fishing trip. He wandered for days, stuffing his shirt with moss to keep warm and drinking water pooled on rocks. Though hundreds searched for him, he was alone without help, guidance, or comfort. Until he was found, he had only himself to count on for survival.
Jesus’ friends must have felt a bit like that after He ascended into heaven—alone and with no one to lead them. But soon the Holy Spirit was poured out on them, and they learned what Jesus meant when He said, “It is for your good that I am going away.” He would send the Helper.
The Spirit comforts and helps us (Acts 9:31), guides us into all truth (John 16:13), reveals the mystery of God to us (Ephesians 3:5), strengthens our spirits (Ephesians 3:16), enables us to obey (1 Peter 1:22), teaches us (John 14:26), and gives us joy (1 Thessalonians 1:6).
Just as Jesus promised His disciples that they would see Him again and rejoice, so He promises us that His Spirit will always be with us.