We might feel with longing: “I wish Jesus was here. I wish Jesus would step through the door and tell me what to do in this situation.”

Three times in John’s Gospel Jesus speaks to this by applying a title to the Holy Spirit – the Spirit of Truth.

First, as Christ followers, the Spirit of Truth lives with us and in us (John 14:16-17).

If people in the world reject Jesus, the reality of the Holy Spirit is even less comprehensible to them. How could they possibly welcome or accept the Spirit of Truth? They don’t have eyes to see him, and they don’t even know what to look for.

They’re more likely to believe lies about God than the truth. We, however, are connected to the Spirit of Truth.

Second, coming straight from God, the Spirit of Truth tells us the truth about God and confirms the truth about Jesus (John 15:26).

Like an arrow, he consistently points to Jesus. He accurately and truthfully tells us and shows us who Jesus is, what he can do, what he is doing, what he wants to do.

Third, the Spirit of Truth guides us into all the truth about God, spiritual realities, and even the future (John 16:13).

Jesus wants us to relax and understand that he himself is with us by his Holy Spirit. We can depend upon the Holy Spirit to lead us correctly.

As the Spirit of Truth, the Holy Spirit is always trustworthy, reliable, and true. He won’t lead us astray or lead us wrongly. We can depend upon him and trust him. He won’t deceive us or mislead us.

We may need to develop our ability to listen. But the Holy Spirit will always guide us to where we need to be. He is the Spirit of Truth, not error.

• He nudges your heart to do something. It’s the right thing to do.

• He prompts you to say something. It’s the right thing to say.

• He puts a thought into your mind. It’s the right idea.

• He directs your next step. It’s the right decision.

The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth. We don’t need to fear following his leadership.