But I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convict the world regarding sin and righteousness and condemnation. (Jn 16:7-8)
Jesus sets the tone for his disciples to significantly desire the Holy Spirit by highlighting the significant responsibilities of the Spirit in the world of Christians— his task is convincing us of sin, righteousness, and condemnation.
Concerning this monumental role of the Spirit, Jesus' words imply that his disciples should take advantage of the time of the Spirit in their world; it would be an opportunity for them to discover and love God more intimately. Listen to this: "I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you."
With the help of the Spirit, true Christians become aware of their sins; however, they are not proud or okay with them. What they do is to ask for help to rise over the weakness from the Holy Spirit, as Paul reminds us: In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans."
The Holy Spirit also enlightens and convinces us to strive for righteousness. He reminds us that Jesus, because of his obedience, has been justified by God. Therefore, we must also seek righteousness with God. Here again, Paul teaches us: If Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness.
Finally, the Spirit teaches us not to believe in the deceitful lies of the evil one as Christ's death and resurrection have defeated any spirit of unbelief. It is the characteristic of the world to fail to accept the truth of faith. But the Spirit teaches us to do something different. We notice this in what Paul told the jailor: "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you and your household will be saved." And the belief that leads to salvation can only be initiated and sustained by the Holy Spirit.
Prayer blessings: Lord, send out your Spirit to renew the face of the earth and turn my heart to you. Let me reconnect with the truth of the Spirit to keep me from the deceits of the evil one. Amen.