August 23, 2024

Two Advocates

Written by Boyd Bailey

The Spirit also intercedes on your behalf when your prayers seem empty.”

Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – August 23, 2024

If anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 1 John 2:1

We live in a litigious society. Nothing in life seems safe from a potential lawsuit. So, imagine walking into a courtroom, feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders. The charges against you seem insurmountable. You know you’re guilty, yet two advocates stand beside you, ready to plead your case. These advocates are none other than Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. In 1 John 2:1, we’re assured that “if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” Picture Jesus as a seasoned lawyer, confident and compassionate. He stands before the Judge, not only pleading your case but offering Himself as the payment for your wrongs. His arguments are irrefutable because they are based on His sacrifice and perfect righteousness. Because of Jesus, the Judge sees you not as guilty but as justified and forgiven.

There’s more. Consider the Holy Spirit, the Advocate Jesus promised in John 14:16-17, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth.” If Jesus is your lawyer in the courtroom, the Holy Spirit is your personal coach and counselor. Imagine having a wise guide who knows every detail of your life and the law, whispering truth into your ear, reminding you of the right path, and giving you the strength to walk it. The Holy Spirit is that constant presence, leading you, teaching you, and reminding you of Jesus’ words. The Spirit also intercedes on your behalf when your prayers seem empty.

Life often feels like a complex, ongoing trial. Accusations come from all sides—sometimes from others, sometimes from within. Yet, with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we are never alone in this courtroom of life. Jesus stands to intercede, as Romans 8:34 says, “Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, resides within us, guiding and comforting us. The Son and the Spirit work together seamlessly, ensuring we’re never left defenseless or without hope.

In the daily grind of life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, guilty, or lost. But remember, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are always advocating for you. They remind you that you are not defined by your failures but by the love and grace of God. Let this truth sink in: You have the best defense team ever. With the Son and the Spirit, you are always covered, always cared for, and always victorious. An Advocate who saves you by grace through faith and an advocate who empowers you to live by grace through faith. Enemies of God, stand down to your Advocates.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus and the Holy Spirit as my advocates. Through Jesus, I find salvation and grace, and through the Holy Spirit, I receive guidance and strength. Help me to lean on them daily, trusting in their support and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Application

Who needs your advocacy as they seek help or face unfair accusations?


Related Reading

John 14:26, 15:26, 16:7; Hebrews 7:25


Worship Resource

Bryan & Katie Torwalt/Holly Halliwell: Holy Spirit


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