May 16, 2018
John 16:16-24 Contemporary English Version (CEV)
In our passage today, the Apostle John writes about the time just before Jesus is arrested. Jesus tells the disciples he is going away and lets them know he is aware they will be sad when he leaves. Then, Jesus teaches the disciples about the Holy Spirit. He tells them the Spirit will convict the world of sin, call people to repentance, and guide them toward righteousness. It will be a new relationship between the believer and God. The Holy Spirit will be a Helper who guides believers into the Truth of the Savior: the Living Word or utterance of God. Upon receiving the Spirit, the disciples will be filled with great happiness and joy.
It is the work of the Spirit to exalt Christ and teach believers the ways of God; to help us through Grace apply the principles of love to our lives. Our part is to pray and ask for the Spirit to indwell our lives and be our Helper. In this new relationship, God will be pleased and believers will be happy and whole.
John 16:16-24 Sorrow Will Turn into Joy
16 Jesus told his disciples, “For a little while you won’t see me, but after a while you will see me.“
17 They said to each other, “What does Jesus mean by saying that for a little while we won’t see him, but after a while we will see him? What does he mean by saying that he is going to the Father? 18 What is this ‘little while’ that he is talking about? We don’t know what he means.”
19 Jesus knew that they had some questions, so he said: You are wondering what I meant when I said that for a little while you won’t see me, but after a while you will see me. 20 I tell you for certain that you will cry and be sad, but the world will be happy. You will be sad, but later you will be happy.
21 When a woman is about to give birth, she is in great pain. But after it is all over, she forgets the pain and is happy, because she has brought a child into the world. 22 You are now very sad. But later I will see you, and you will be so happy that no one will be able to change the way you feel. 23 When that time comes, you won’t have to ask me about anything. I tell you for certain that the Father will give you whatever you ask for in my name. 24 You have not asked for anything in this way before, but now you must ask in my name.[a] Then it will be given to you, so that you will be completely happy.
Prayer: Lord, you truly have made me so happy; you have fulfilled your promise. I do see the work of your hand everyday and I long to be a part of everything you place before me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.