Guiding Light!
Comforter!
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever. John 14.16
The "Comforter" that Christ speaks of in this verse is the Holy Spirit. It's interesting that Jesus introduces his disciples to the idea of the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the context of Comfort. Implied in that idea is that there will be difficult times ahead and they would need someone to comfort them as Jesus himself did when on earth.
The Holy Spirit has been called to our side. We didn't call him. Although, if we call Him, He will come. No, the one who called him to our side initially is Jesus Himself. From this idea of one who stands by the side of another comes one of the principle meanings of the word which is "an advocate, one who pleads another's case before a judge, a counsel for the defense." When we stand before the Almighty Judge with the Satan (whose name means accuser) bringing up our past and present failings, the Holy Spirit stands beside us saying, "This is your Child. Your Son's blood was shed for him. You extended your mercy toward him." And the righteous judge replies, "That is so. Your client is set free."
It also means "an assistant or an aide, one who is called to help another." How many times has the Holy Spirit rushed to your aid in times of crisis? How many times have you see his hand strengthening your own when you could go no further? Certainly, he is the one who is called to our aid time and time again.
The word also has the meaning of one who is our advisor or counselor. Again, the idea of one who comes along side you is a wonderful image. I like to think of the Holy Spirit holding my hand saying gently, "Come, go this way" or "No, there's danger down that road." Unlike earthly advisors, his advice never fails and his counsel is always faithful.
Another meaning of this word is "one who refreshes." He is the Living Water Jesus shared with the Samaritan woman. The Holy Spirit comes in and takes our weariness and turns it to strength. Anyone who is thirsty can drink of that well and be refreshed.
And, of course, he is the comforter. When we walk in darkness, he brings a light, holds our hand, speaks words of encouragement in our ears, and leads us through the darkness of night into the beauty of the sunrise of morning. He hears the midnight weeping and sees the tears no one else sees. He wraps his arms of comfort around us and says, "Fear not." And at his words fear flees. I praise God that Jesus didn't leave us comfortless, the Holy Spirit has "come along side" and will never leave.
Heavenly Father, let me never forget the wonderful gift you left us in the presence of your Holy Spirit in our lives. Praise you Father for your many blessings and comfort You send us, even when we don't deserve it. Today Father we make ourselves available to you to be used in any way you desire. We humble ourselves before you in submission to your God head. In Jesus name we pray.........amen
In Christ's Service,
Kenny Millhouse
kenny@guidinglightministry.com
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