The Spirit Guides

Jesus said: “When the Spirit of truth comes, you will be guided into all truth.  The Spirit will not speak on its own, but will tell you what’s been heard and what’s to come.”

John 16:13

Contemplation Notes for Using this Devotional:

• In this passage often called “The Promise of the Holy Spirit,” from the most mystical of four main Gospels, Jesus explains to the disciples—and us—that we each have an advocate, the Spirit of Truth, or Holy Spirit.
• Some people think they need an intermediary to connect with the Spirit of Truth. But Jesus continually explains that God is our Source, that each of us has access to God and our own personal experience of the Spirit of Truth working in our lives.
• In addition, Jesus demonstrates his grounding in the consciousness (mindset) of God. He never forces his will on other people or situations. He teaches everyone to follow as Spirit guides them.
• The Spirit of Truth is the subtle activity and energy of God, distinctly and individually working for each of us. If we’re open to receiving the Spirit, to listening to our intuition, our inner wisdom, we can be led, step by step, to whatever is best for us and our current circumstances.
• The Spirit of Truth always advocates for our good, which is often conveyed to us through our intuitive knowing and understanding. it works on our behalf, in the present, synchronistically, so specific events and connections align for us. But if we try to comprehend the Spirit of Truth intellectually, we often second-guess ourselves, missing opportunities and interactions that support our healing, prosperity, loving relationships, and whatever else we may need for fulfillment and well-being.
• In her 1916 text, How I Used Truth, Homeopath and Metaphysician H. Emilie Cady says: “Many of God’s children are ceasing to look at the things of God from the objective standpoint and are learning to contemplate the facts of life from the subjective, or higher side.” She explains that when we’re open and receptive, we have instant “flashes” of “intuition . . . from the stillness of the invisible.”
• Demonstration is your evidence of how well your life works. You demonstrate your willingness and ability to follow the Spirit of Truth—just as Jesus did—by staying open to and aware of your intuition. This helps you feel Truth for yourself, even if you can’t fully see your big-picture outcome.  So, for example, when you seek support or assistance from a trusted expert or counselor, you notice what resonates for you and discern how to use their advice.

Contemplation Questions:

As you reflect on your life and circumstances, ask yourself:

• What is the Spirit of Truth revealing to me now?
  • List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can.

• When I reflect on these revelations, what is still in process?
  • List, word map, or illustrate all that applies.

• When I reflect on these revelations, what action am I being guided to take?
  • List, word map, or illustrate all that applies.

• When I reflect on these revelations, what evidence do I see that I’m being guided to my best?
  • List, word map, or illustrate all your evidence.

• What are at least three (3) ways I can continue to trust my process as I allow the Spirit of Truth to advocate for me?
  • List, word map, or illustrate as much as you can imagine.

As you work with this devotional, remember that the Spirit of Truth never tells you to harm yourself or anyone else.  It doesn’t necessarily appear as a person, though you may discern wisdom in another person’s words or actions.  Neither is it always revealed during your actual meditation, but your meditative practice can help you recognize your guidance later in the day.

Also, if a door closes, a relationship ends, or a supposedly perfect opportunity disappears, don’t push back.  Avoid any blame or judgments about what you or another person did.  Comfort yourself in the assurance that your best is still being revealed.  Affirm: “Not this.  Not me.  Not now.  My best is unfolding for me, and I am listening and learning as I am guided.”

© 2023 – Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks – All rights reserved.

Photo from Shutterstock by Fesus Robert.