Nothing But the Truth

Although we may hear these words in a courtroom, people do not always tell the truth. Having been deceived and exploited for centuries, Native people traditionally have a great love for truth. But whom can we trust? Jesus told us that Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44). To counteract his evil intentions, Jesus sent us Someone who will guide us into all the truth (John 16:13). Imagine having a perfect Friend—One who will always tell you what is right. Think about having a companion who could never make a mistake and always has your best interest at heart. 

Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He promised to send us another Comforter, the Spirit of Truth, who would dwell within us (John 14:17). In the Greek, He is the parakletos, the One who walks along beside us on our path of life, to counsel, help and encourage us. True to His Word, just 50 days after His ascension, the Holy Spirit arrived (Acts 2:2) and He has been with us ever since.

The symbolism of wind, fire and water are emblems foundational to most tribal belief systems. Refreshing and free as the wind, the Spirit is moving everywhere, affecting all human beings in the north, south, east and west (John 3:8). As fire is essential for survival, the Spirit provides us with light and power (Acts 2:3-4). As water, the Spirit is compared to an abundant, life-sustaining stream (John 7:38).

There are many ways in which the Holy Spirit can bless your family. The Spirit of God can interpret our dreams (Daniel 5:12), guide us in decisions (Romans 8:14), give us joy (I Thessalonians.1:6) and help us to love each other (Romans 5:5). He is all powerful (Acts 1:8) and will guide us in prayer (Jude 20). He will renew our spirits (Titus 3:5) and give us strength (Psalm 51:12). The Spirit of God will help to unify our People (Philippians 2:1-2), for the first fruit of the Spirit is love (Galatians 5:22). Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would be our Teacher, bringing to our remembrance all He has taught us (John 14:26). 

Jesus called the Holy Spirit “the Spirit of truth” (John 15:26). Paul told us to walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16). A fundamental hope of the Navajo is that their People will “Walk in Beauty.” As First Nations People, we are all privileged to walk in the beauty of the Spirit of God.

Our faithful Friend will never lie to us, never lead us astray and always has our best interests at heart. He will guide us safely as we walk the path of life. People of the First Nations—and all nations—should seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in their daily walk with their Creator. He will tell us the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Maxim of the Moment

Chase your passion – not your pension. - Denis Waitley