The Holy Spirit is God’s presence with us and in us. Jesus describes Him as a helper, guide, and advocate who leads us toward truth and helps us become more like Him.
Have you ever felt a gentle nudge to do the right thing, experienced peace in the middle of chaos, or sensed a presence guiding your thoughts and actions? That might have been the Holy Spirit. But who exactly is He?
Many Christians have plenty of questions about the Holy Spirit.
Who is the Holy Spirit? What exactly does He do, and how does He guide us? Do we have to act really spiritual to get the Spirit’s attention?
Fortunately, Jesus tells us what the Spirit is like, and how He leads us to become more like Jesus every day.
Who Is the Holy Spirit?
Jesus described the Holy Spirit as a comforter, advocate, helper, and friend. He’s not distant or abstract. He’s God with you and in you, helping you follow Jesus every single day. Do you know anyone like that? Maybe a mentor, mother, or wise friend?
As you read Jesus’ words, think about the Holy Spirit as your Comforter, Advocate, Helper, and Friend.
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” John 14:16-17 NIV
Jesus made this promise to His followers while telling them He would soon leave to be with the Father.
“So let me say it again, this truth: It’s better for you that I leave. If I don’t leave, the Friend won’t come. But if I go, I’ll send him to you.” John 16:7 MSG
Christians talk about God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (which we call the Trinity). So these aren't three different gods, but one God, which is part of a core, historic Christian teaching shared through creeds like the Apostle' Creed.
So when Jesus talks about sending the Holy Spirit, He’s not sending someone separate. He’s showing us what it looks like for God to be with us right now.
What Does the Holy Spirit Do?
The Holy Spirit is God in us. But what's He actually doing? That's what Jesus' followers wondered too.
His followers might have felt confused, worried, or even abandoned, but Jesus clarified that His physical leaving was less about going away and more about God coming closer through the Holy Spirit.
“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.” John 14:18-20 NIV
Jesus was coming closer because the Holy Spirit would not only be with us, but in us: the Spirit does what Jesus promised and came to fill His followers with the same comfort, power, and love that filled Jesus.
By saying yes to living Jesus’ way, we invite the Holy Spirit to help, comfort, and advocate for and through us.
“The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you.” John 14:26 MSG
God chooses to live within us and guide us every single day, turning us into people who are becoming more like Jesus every day.
A Prayer to the Holy Spirit
Pray with your own words, or try these:
God, thank You for the Holy Spirit. Will You continue to help me know You as Comforter, Helper, Advocate, and Friend? I trust You to guide me as I follow the way of Jesus. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Common Questions About the Holy Spirit
Is the Holy Spirit a person or a force?
The Holy Spirit isn’t just a feeling or energy. He is God! Jesus speaks about Him as someone who teaches, guides, and comforts, which means He relates to us personally.
What does the Holy Spirit actually do?
The Holy Spirit helps you understand truth, reminds you of what Jesus taught, and guides your decisions. He also brings comfort, conviction, and strength when you need it.
When do you receive the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit comes to live in you when you begin following Jesus. He isn’t something you earn or unlock. He’s a gift from God to everyone who trusts Him.
How does the Holy Spirit guide you?
He often guides you through Scripture, through a growing sense of conviction or clarity, and through wise people around you. His direction will always lead you toward truth, love, and becoming more like Jesus.
This article is Part 4 of a seven-part series of articles for new followers of Jesus. Let us know you chose to commit your life to Christ here so we can celebrate and support your faith journey.
To see the whole series, follow the links below: