The Lord led the children of Israel by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Ex. 13:21). Commentator Arthur Pink draws a significant parallel between this cloud in the wilderness and the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.

Pink points out that just as the cloud was a gracious gift to the Israelites, so the Holy Spirit is a gift to the trusting child of God.

Jesus said, “I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper” (John 14:16). The pillar of cloud was provided to guide the children of Israel. So too, the Holy Spirit leads the Christian. Jesus said, “When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth” (16:13).

Even as the cloud remained with Israel in the wilderness, Jesus promised that the Father would send the Spirit, who would “abide” with believers forever (14:16). Think of it! God Himself dwells within our hearts. We who know Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord are temples of His Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19).

When we are led by the Spirit, our lives will be characterised by love, joy, peace and self-control (Gal. 5:16,22-23). We will be effective witnesses for Christ as we travel through the wilderness of this world.

The power that compels us comes from the Spirit who indwells us.

Author

Richard DeHaan

Topics

Our Daily Bread