…for they shall be comforted. – Matthew 5:4

Comfort is a misunderstood commodity.

Often when we think of comfort we think of someone patting us on the knee and saying, “there, there, it will all work out all right.” So when we think of the Holy Spirit, our “comforter” we fall into this trap. We think that the job of the Spirit of the living God is to whisper platitudes to us when we are feeling sorry for ourselves. That could not be further from the truth.

Yes, Comforter is one of the Holy Spirit’s names and descriptors. The Latin behind our word comfort combines com–with and fort–strength. To comfort is to come to the aide of one in need with the strength required to bring success. Big difference, isn’t it?

The Holy Spirit is not the one who takes the role of nursemaid, He comes beside to give strength and help in time of need. It looks nothing like that “poor baby” picture we can easily conjure up. The Greek word here (parakaleō – same root as Comforter or Helper–paraklētos–in John 14) carries the idea of a tug boat coming alongside a huge ship to guide it through tricky waters. The Tug though small is very powerful, and has complete expertise in navigating the tricky waters ahead.

In like manner, the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, comes alongside us as we enter the tricky waters of repentance and ensures that we reach safety, free from the shipwreck of worldly sorrow.

Those who mourn over their sins will find that the Holy Spirit comes alongside, and gives them the strength and direction they need to walk out true and complete repentance. There is a comfort and confidence that comes from this victory over sin.

Are you feeling blessed yet?

Oh, we’re just getting started.

Keep the light on!

Ben