But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. – John 14:26

A tap on the shoulder

A familiar look from across the room

Another “a-ha” moment at just the right time

That last ounce of courage when the darkest moment comes

Thinking before you say something that won’t taste very good later

Isn’t this a wonderful promise and description about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives? He teaches us as we grow up and face every new circumstance. He then reminds us of each important lesson we’ve already learned. So many of those lessons we weren’t even paying attention to at the time. We didn’t know how important it would be later on, how dearly we would need that truth to grasp with all our might when things fell to pieces.

We rationalize and make excuses for basic selfishness. The Holy Spirit is deep within to remind us about sacrifice, devotion, eternity and most of all love. He reminds us about what it means to carry a cross. His voice is there in our ear as when we turn our cheek to another insult. That voice beckons us to our knees to pray first and without ceasing. He draws our eyes heavenward to seek that realm and that will rather than the petty and tarnished castles and kingdoms we so crave here on earth.

The Holy Spirit reminds us that are redeemed to live a new life.

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God.  – Colossians 3:1-3

The Spirit that Jesus has left with each one of us reminds us of who we really are and what we are really here to do. It produces within us a peace that passes our everyday understanding. It makes our cares subside and our thoughts fall into order. We cannot find this gift and its benefits anywhere else, though we search our whole lives. It is here, dwelling within our soul, speaking words of wisdom, comfort and guidance each and every moment. Are you listening? Are you watching? Do you remember?

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. – John 14:27