Student Devotion Session 3: How Can We Know?

Key Verses: John 14:23-27, ²³ Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. ²⁴ Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. ²⁵ “All this I have spoken while still with you. ²⁶ But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. ²⁷ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

So what do you do when you really want to remember something? Do you write it on your hand? (Parents love that). Maybe your trick is an alarm on your cell or iCal? Or are you old school and keep an organizer? Ever use a dry-erase marker on your mirror? Do you keep your inbox full of texts and emails that you read over and over as a reminder of what a boyfriend or girlfriend has said? Do you harass your friends, siblings, or parents, repeatedly saying, "don't let me forget... seriously." Well, what if they aren't around? If it's really super important, how do you make sure that you won't forget?

Read John 14:23-27. Jesus told His disciples that He would not always be with them. They had spent a lot of time together, maybe three years at this point. By now, even though they don't fully realize who Jesus is and what He will do for everyone, they know that this relationship is something special. The disciples have given everything to follow Christ, learn from His teachings, and follow His example. The thought of Him leaving seems stressful to say the least.

Christ promises that we don't have to worry about forgetting what He said and did. We can experience His unconditional peace by trusting His word. The Holy Spirit is the ultimate reminder. When we keep His commands, it shows our love for God. The Spirit is our Helper and Teacher. He doesn't just lecture us with a bunch of information; He is with us every step of the way, showing us what it all means and how to apply what we're learning. Maybe something pops into your mind, or you read your Bible and understand it in a new way-that's the Holy Spirit. Sometimes you find yourself in a situation and suddenly find just the right words or know exactly how to respond. That's Him. Whatever your situation, don't worry. He's always with you. Listen to Him.