If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. –John 14:15-17 (KJV)
(To my readers: Sorry I missed yesterday’s devotional thought. We were away meeting with the surgeon about Andrea’s upcoming cancer surgery. We greatly appreciate your concern and prayers during this time.)
In the King James Version of the Scriptures, we find where Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the “Comforter.” I have always thought that this was a wonderful translation, for it describes perfectly one of the main functions of the Holy Spirit. When we face troubled times we have comfort through Christ. As we encounter trials, heartache, and problems of all sorts, the Holy Spirit is there to provide us with a divine and supernatural kind of comfort. Anytime we feel afraid or uncertain, the Holy Spirit will assure us of God’s presence and will bring us that indescribable comfort that somehow transcends human reason. In other words, we know that under normal circumstances we would terrified, but instead we have a blessed assurance and comfort knowing that the Lord is with us.
I recall many years ago hearing the word “comforter” used to describe a type of thick, heavy blanket. These are used as the top covering of a bed, but they also make a great blanket to keep you warm on a chilly and rainy night. Should the power go out some cold winter night, one might also take this comforter and wrap oneself up in it and stay warm and yes – cozy. Indeed, there is something comforting about being wrapped up in a thick and warm blanket.
The next time you feel yourself getting discouraged or fearful, remember that the Holy Spirit can envelope us and bring comfort in the midst of whatever storm we are facing. A wonderful comfort for the troubled soul is always found in a relationship with Christ. He will comfort us in all the storms of life.
