Come Holy Spirit The Counsellor

 Come Holy Spirit Series.

Come Holy Spirit Series.

Holy Spirit The Counsellor

Names of the Holy Spirit Series – Week 2

“But the Counsellor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
— John 14:26.

Who Is the Counsellor?

The title “Counsellor” emerges from Jesus’ farewell discourse in John’s Gospel — spoken on the eve of His Passion. He speaks tenderly to the disciples, who are troubled by the thought of His departure. And into that moment of fear and uncertainty, Jesus promises “another Counsellor” (John 14:16), implying that He Himself has been the first.

In Greek, the term is Paraklētos — meaning one who is called alongside to help, to plead, to comfort, to strengthen, or to guide. In Latin, this becomes Consolator, and in English, “Counsellor,” “Comforter,” or “Advocate.”

The Holy Spirit as Counsellor is more than a therapist or advice-giver. He is a divine companion — the very Spirit of Jesus — who remains with us and within us, guiding us through every circumstance of life with divine wisdom.

 

The Spirit Who Walks Beside Us with Wisdom

When Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, He called Him the Counsellor — the one who would teach, remind, guide, and strengthen. This title in the Greek is Paraklētos, a legal term for one who advocates or defends. But Counsellor goes further than a courtroom image. It speaks to a deeper intimacy — a wise and trustworthy friend who helps us discern God’s will, especially in confusing or emotionally difficult times.

The Holy Spirit does not just drop in occasionally to give advice. He dwells within us — as both guide and companion, helping us see the bigger picture and drawing our attention back to Christ when we are overwhelmed, uncertain, or weary.

And unlike human counsellors, the Spirit knows us more deeply than we know ourselves. He knows our wounds, our gifts, our blind spots, and our unique calling. He works not just at the surface but in the depths of our soul.

A Quiet Voice that Illuminates the Path

The Spirit as Counsellor does not shout or demand. He whispers truth with clarity and conviction — often when we finally become quiet enough to hear. Have you ever experienced a moment of peace that gently settled into your heart after prayer? Or a subtle shift in perspective that brought healing to a long-held hurt? That was the Spirit at work — not pushing, but inviting.

In the stillness of prayer, in the reading of Scripture, and in the wise words of a spiritual friend, the Counsellor moves. His direction is never manipulative. Rather, it is deeply respectful of our freedom, even while always drawing us toward life and truth.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” — Psalm 119:105.

What Kind of Counselling Does the Holy Spirit Offer?

The Spirit counsels not just through moral instruction or spiritual nudges, but through deep transformation of the heart and mind. His counsel is always rooted in:

1. Truth
   Jesus names the Spirit the “Spirit of Truth” (John 16:13). His counsel is never manipulative, vague, or self-serving. The Holy Spirit unveils truth that sets us free — truth about God, about ourselves, and about the world.
2. Memory
   The Spirit “will remind you of all that I have said to you.” This is more than mental recall. The Spirit brings the words and presence of Jesus to life in the heart of the believer. He helps us live from the memory of grace.
3. Wisdom for the Present
   In discerning decisions, the Spirit counsels us toward what aligns with God’s will, peace, and integrity. Unlike human wisdom, the Spirit’s counsel can see what lies ahead — gently steering us even when we don't understand the full picture.
4. Companionship
   As Counsellor, the Holy Spirit is not distant. He abides with us in silence and struggle, rejoicing and rebuilding. His presence offers the counsel of peace, even before it offers the counsel of answers.

The Counsellor in the Life of the Church

Throughout the centuries, the Church has looked to the Spirit for counsel — in synods, councils, and confessions. The Spirit has been described as the “soul of the Church,” guiding its leaders and saints not only in doctrine but in holiness and compassion.

In the sacraments — especially Confirmation — the Spirit is invoked as Counsellor, bringing the sevenfold gifts of Isaiah 11:2–3: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Among these, counsel is the gift by which we are led to choose rightly and act courageously.

“When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth.”
— John 16:13

How Do We Receive His Counsel?

To be counselled by the Spirit means learning the language of stillness and trust. His counsel is subtle — never forced, often gentle, and always in harmony with Scripture and Church teaching.

To receive His counsel:

• Make space for silence after prayer or Scripture.
• Ask for the gift of counsel — it is yours by baptism and confirmation.
• Pay attention to what brings peace or unease.
• Be willing to wait. The Spirit's timing is perfect.

 

Counselling Us Through Life’s Questions

Sometimes we want the Spirit’s counsel for the big decisions: Should I take that job? Should I speak up in this situation? But just as often, the Spirit is ready to counsel us through the daily grind — how we respond to frustration, how we offer compassion, how we resist the temptation to speak harshly.

The Spirit as Counsellor helps us navigate conversations with gentleness, challenges with perseverance, and decisions with a sense of peace rather than panic.

We do not have to have it all figured out. We just need to keep the lines of communication open — to pray, to pause, and to trust that the Spirit is always working, even when answers take time.

Reflection Questions

• Where in your life do you need the Spirit’s counsel right now?
• What area feels confusing, and have you invited the Holy Spirit into it?
• Are you open to hearing His wisdom — even if it comes in unexpected ways?
• In what situations do I most need the Holy Spirit’s counsel right now?
• When have I experienced the Spirit’s guidance before — even subtly?
• Am I open to counsel that corrects me, as well as comforts me?

 

Scriptures to Pray With This Week

• John 14:26 – The Spirit will teach and remind.
• Romans 8:26-27 – The Spirit intercedes for us with groans too deep for words.
• Isaiah 11:2 – The Spirit of wisdom and understanding.
• James 1:5 – Ask for wisdom, and it will be given.

  

A Prayer to the Holy Spirit as Counsellor

Come, Holy Spirit, Counsellor divine.
Speak to my heart with the voice of love and wisdom.
Remind me of all that Jesus taught and did.
Guide me in my decisions and in my silence.
Strengthen my heart when I am tired or discouraged.
Teach me how to counsel others with compassion,
as You continue to counsel me.
Amen.

 

Alternatively you may prefer a shorter version

Come, Holy Spirit, Counsellor and Friend.
Speak into the noise of our lives with your still, small voice.
Counsel us in ways that draw us closer to truth, to peace, and to Jesus. Amen.