A seminary student was writing a term paper about confession of sin. At one point he intended to type, "When we confess our sins, He takes away our guilt." But when he came to the word guilt, he hit the letter q by mistake. This made his sentence read, "When we confess our sins, He takes away our quilt." He turned in the paper without noticing his error.

When the paper was returned, the student grinned as he read the marginal note from the professor: "Never fear, little one, you'll never freeze, because God gave us a Comforter."

Jesus said the Comforter (or Helper) would come and abide with us forever (Jn. 14:16). Since the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) the Holy Spirit has been carrying on His ministry in the lives of believers.

Here are some of His comforting activities: He guides us into truth and brings glory to Christ (Jn. 16:13-15). He assures us that we are God's children (Rom. 8:16). He helps us pray (Rom. 8:26-27). He gives us hope (Rom. 15:13). He teaches us spiritual truths (1 Cor. 2:13). He equips us to serve other believers (1 Cor. 12:4-7). He makes us Christlike (2 Cor. 3:18). He strengthens us (Eph. 3:16).

We can face this day with confidence because of the Comforter's ministry in our lives.  — Dennis J. De Haan