When the Spirit of Truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. John 16:13 NLT
As I read the 16th chapter of John, I came across this wonderful promise Jesus gave us. At this point, the end of life as the disciples new it was coming to an end. Jesus was trying to prepare them for life without his physical presence. I have always pondered how they received these truths. I probably would listen in denial–no that can’t happen! But Jesus tells them–no this is a good thing!
One of the thoughts I had as I read through this chapter was that the Holy Spirit loves us. I don’t think I have ever put that thought together. He loves us as much as God the Father, and Jesus, His Son does. So when He promised to send this Comforter, Advocate, Guide, Teacher it not only came from a place of love, but He sent some one who loves us as well. The Holy Spirit is an amazing gift, I don’t think we as believers have to learned to appreciate Him to His fullest extent.
So what is a guide? A guide comes along side us in the journey. He is there to help teach us along the way. To give us better insight and comprehension no matter how well we already think we “know it”. The guide keeps us from getting lost. He may take us on what we perceive to be a “longer” journey, and we may get frustrated because we want to get there faster or easier. This is why we need to understand that the Holy Spirit loves us. He will not lead or guide us to somewhere false or ultimately damaging. We do know that Paul was led by the Holy Spirit into some very difficult trials, but it was all good for the Kingdom’s sake.
One purpose of a guide is to help us get from one place to another, usually some place new. If we don’t trust, rely on or turn to Him during changes we may not get to the new place as efficiently. If we think we know the truth, already, about our situation, then we won’t even ask for His help. We will make decisions based on our own thoughts and wisdom. This makes us vulnerable for deception and detours.
A guide helps us feel safe. We can relax and enjoy the journey much more, if we know that someone has planned the trip. He knows the starting and stopping places. The children of Israel had the advantage of the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night to lead and guide them. We can have the promptings of the Holy Spirit, if we let Him.
Learning to lean on Him, isn’t always easy. Our independent spirit can show up and cause us to resist or even reject His guidance. He is a gentleman and won’t push Himself in where He isn’t wanted. When we repent and turn to Him, He is quick to respond. However, we may have to suffer the consequences of our independence. Even, then He is quick to comfort us. The enemy of our soul attempts to discredit His guidance through lies and fears. We must not let those things deter us from following His guidance.
Learning to follow this wonderful guide is a process. It begins with submission and asking. Staying in the Word tunes our ears to the tone of His voice and character. Understanding that He will never lead us to do things counter to God’s character. He will never guide us to hurt or injure someone else. As we listen to Him, we don’t have to fear being deceived.
Father, I thank you that you love us enough to give us a guide. Teach us to respect, honor and listen to this wonderful gift you have given. Train us to listen and then obey, knowing His way is always best. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 