A New Life in the Spirit

In 1994, the band Ace of Base topped the charts with their hit “The Sign.” The song is about a woman who finally realized her relationship was toxic. She “saw the sign,” left, and felt like a new person. Maybe you’ve had a similar experience—walking away from something harmful or entering into a relationship that made life feel brand new.

But Jesus offers something far deeper than the temporary excitement of human relationships. In John 14:15–31, He promises His disciples—and us—that through the Holy Spirit, He gives us a new life that is lasting, real, and transforming.

1. A New Life with Him (vv.15–17)

Jesus promised that after His departure, the Father would send “another Helper,” the Holy Spirit. The Spirit isn’t just with us; He is in us. This is revolutionary—God no longer dwells in a temple made by human hands but in the hearts of His people.

The Spirit comes alongside us as our Advocate, Comforter, and Teacher. He opens our eyes to truth, applies Scripture to our lives, and gives us assurance that we belong to God. If you belong to Jesus, you are never alone. Everywhere you go, the Spirit goes with you.

2. A New Life of Obedience (vv.18–26)

Jesus ties love and obedience together: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Our obedience doesn’t earn God’s love—it flows from it. The Spirit gives us new desires, turning our hearts away from sin and toward holiness.

Too often, we treat God’s commands like a thrift store—taking what we like and leaving behind what we don’t. But true discipleship means embracing all of Christ’s teaching. And the good news is that God doesn’t leave us to obey in our own strength. His Spirit motivates us with Christ’s love and empowers us to live faithfully.

3. A New Life of Peace (vv.27–31)

Jesus ends with this promise: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” This peace is more than the absence of trouble—it’s the presence of God’s wholeness, or shalom. Through Christ, we are no longer enemies of God but reconciled and at peace with Him.

That peace doesn’t mean life will be easy. Jesus told His disciples that Satan would have his moment, but God’s plan would prevail. The same is true for us—trials will come, but nothing can overturn God’s purposes. In the midst of chaos, Jesus gives us peace that anchors our souls.

Living as New Creations

When you put your trust in Christ, the Spirit gives you a new heart, a new desire to obey, and a new peace that nothing in this world can take away. As Paul writes, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Cor. 5:17).

This week, submit daily to the Spirit’s leading. Let His love fuel your obedience. Let His presence calm your fears. And let His peace remind you that you are not an orphan—you are God’s child, raised to walk in newness of life.