Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

October 12– Evening

by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“The Comforter, which is the Holy Spirit.”

—John 14:26

The New Testament age is peculiarly the time period of the Holy Spirit. It is a time in which Jesus cheers us, not by his personal presence as he will in due time, but by the indwelling and constant abiding of the Holy Spirit who is forever the Comforter of the church. It is his office to console the hearts of God’s people. He convinces of sin; he illuminates and instructs. But the main part of his work lies in making glad the hearts of the renewed, in confirming the weak, and lifting up all those that are bowed down.

He does this by revealing Jesus to them. The Holy Spirit consoles, but Christ is the consolation. We may speak of the Holy Spirit as a Physician, but Jesus is the medicine. He heals the wound, but it is by applying the holy ointment of Christ’s name and grace. He doesn’t speak of his own things but of the things of Christ. If the Holy Spirit is the Comforter, Jesus is Comfort.

Now, if the Holy Spirit is such a rich provision, why should a Christian ever be sad and despairing? The Holy Spirit has graciously engaged to be your Comforter. Do you imagine, O weak and trembling believer, that he will neglect his sacred trust? Do you think he has taken on a responsibility that he is unable or unwilling to perform? If it is his special work to strengthen and comfort you, do you suppose he has forgotten his business or that he will fail to execute the loving duties of his office? No! Don’t think so poorly of the tender and blessed Spirit whose name is “the Comforter.” He delights to give the oil of joy in exchange for sadness and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.

Trust in him now, and he will surely comfort you until the house of mourning and sadness is closed forever and the marriage feast has begun. [M&E]