Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Focus

“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.” – John 16:7 (ESV)

Devotional Thought

At first glance, Jesus’ words in Gospel of John 16:7 sound almost unbelievable. How could it possibly be better for the disciples if Jesus—God in the flesh—left them? How could His physical absence ever be an advantage?

From the disciples’ perspective, nothing could surpass walking beside Jesus, hearing His voice, watching His miracles, and asking questions face to face. And yet, Jesus insists this is not a loss, but a gain.

The key lies in how God would now dwell with His people.

Jesus, in His incarnate body, was limited to one place at a time. He could teach a crowd, speak to a few, or walk with an individual—but always within the boundaries of physical presence. The coming of the Holy Spirit would remove those limitations entirely. The Spirit would not walk beside believers, but dwell within them. Not in one place—but everywhere. Not with a few—but with all who belong to Christ, at the same time, across all generations.

That is not lesser help. That is greater nearness.

Even more striking is how the Spirit works in understanding. Throughout the Gospels, the disciples often misunderstood Jesus—even when He stood right in front of them. They heard His words, but clarity lagged behind. After Jesus’ ascension, something changed. The Spirit began illuminating truth from the inside out. Understanding no longer depended on proximity to Jesus’ physical voice, but on divine instruction written on the heart.

The Holy Spirit teaches in ways tailored to each believer—awakening understanding, applying truth personally, and guiding faithfully through God’s Word. What Jesus taught externally, the Spirit now teaches internally.

Jesus did not leave His followers alone. He left so that God could be closer than ever before.

Reflection Questions

1. Why do you think the disciples struggled to understand how Jesus’ departure could be an advantage?

2. How does knowing the Holy Spirit dwells within you change how you view God’s nearness?

3. In what ways have you experienced the Spirit helping you understand Scripture more clearly over time?

4. Are there areas where you still rely more on external guidance than on prayerful dependence on the Spirit?

Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for the wisdom and kindness of Your plan. When Jesus ascended, You did not withdraw Your presence—you deepened it. Thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to dwell within me, to teach me, convict me, and guide me into truth. Help me trust Your Spirit’s work in my life and remain attentive to Your Word. May I never take for granted the gift of Your nearness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.