Have you ever wanted to meet someone, but you couldn’t get an introduction? That’s often what holds us back from stepping out on a limb and introducing ourselves to someone new. It’s always easier when a mutual friend makes the introduction for us.

Thankfully Jesus, who knows the Holy Spirit better than anyone, has already introduced us to Him. As we read in today’s verse, Jesus tells the disciples that He “will pray the Father” (the Greek word pray literally means ask), and “He will give you another Helper.” Do you know what was about to happen when Jesus made this introduction? He was with His disciples at the Last Supper, mere hours before He was to be crucified, and He had just told them He was going away. Imagine what the disciples thought when they heard their leader would be gone soon. There was probably some uncertainty and maybe even some fear about what would happen after He left. Many of us have probably experienced a similar feeling after the loss of a parent, friend, or mentor.

But Jesus assured them they wouldn’t be alone, and the Helper (the Holy Spirit) would be with them to help them keep His commandments. In verse 17, Jesus goes even further and says, “But you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.” He’s telling the disciples that they already know Him.

Jesus’ message to the disciples is still true for us today. And as we’ll discover in the next few days and weeks, we can develop a deep relationship with the Holy Spirit. He wants to be our Helper and closest friend. And just as Jesus told the disciples, we can have peace knowing we’re never alone because the Holy Spirit dwells in us and with us. Isn’t it amazing to know that God sent the Holy Spirit not just for the disciples but for us as well? He’s not an inaccessible God that we cannot reach. He’s right here with us, and He desires a close relationship with us.

Have you met my best friend, the Holy Spirit? If not, now is the perfect time. His presence in your life can change everything.