A dove symbolises peace, purity, love, gentleness, innocence and the Holy Spirit. Depending on your Bible translation, the word “dove” appears 50-74 times in Scripture.
Doves are found throughout the world. They are monogamous; one mate for life and thus a symbol of purity. Did you know that a dove does not have a gallbladder? It cannot store bile. There is no bitterness in them. Dove's wings are designed for rapid, agile and swift flight. Doves and pigeons are known to have extraordinary navigational skills. They can fly long distances and many civilisations over millennia, used them to carry important messages. Doves are also synonymous with "peace." They are non-threatening and a representation of gentle strength. Doves were also an acceptable sacrifice, as mentioned in Leviticus.
Yeshua was baptised with water and then the Spirit came upon Him. Luke 3:22 "The Holy Spirit descended on Him in bodily form like a dove and a voice came from heaven: You are My Son whom I love; with You I Am well pleased." In the Bible eagles are mentioned in reference to God's strong, protective power, but dove imagery speaks of the intimate, tender and comforting presence of the gentle work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life.
"Parakletos" is a Greek word meaning comforter, helper, counsellor, advocate, one called to aid/to come alongside you, especially in a time of need. Beautiful words describing the Holy Spirit as your Comforter, Helper, Advocate and Counsellor.
I recall a time in 2008 when I desperately needed the Lord's comfort after my miscarriage. Abba Father provided solace during my sorrow by showing me a dove. He drew my attention to the dressing table's mirror. It was precisely angled for me to see the reflection of a dove, as it was sitting on the roof. God, in His wisdom encouraged me through nature, by sending a dove, so that I could understand His deeper Spiritual guidance and support. He would comfort and help me through this difficult time.
"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 14:25-26
"When the Counsellor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who goes out from the Father, He will testify about Me." John 15:26
The Holy Spirit is like a "still small voice," that guides you. We will do well to obey.
The area that we live in experienced extreme weather that caused severe widespread damage. During the storm I had to resist fear and anxiety, because my eyes were seeing trees being uprooted and roof tiles blown off. Despite the destruction around me I sensed the Holy Spirit comforting me with these words; "He will hold you in perfect peace." Isaiah 26:3-4 "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord Himself, is the Rock eternal."
Followers of Yeshua, may we all be encouraged by the Word and the Holy Spirit's guidance. Learn to abide, to dwell in the shelter of the Most High, to rest in the shadow of the Almighty, Psalm 91. Storms and hardships will come, but when they come, to whom do you turn? Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world."
Yeshua, the Prince of peace gives you an inner peace that transcends all understanding. It guards your heart and your mind It's a peace despite all the external worldly circumstances. The comfort, help and guidance the Holy Spirit gives, remains amid turmoil. It is not temporary, it doesn't fluctuate. Resist fear, stand courageous in His strength so that you can encourage those around you.
We will soon be celebrating Pentecost / Shavuot. May it be meaningful to you. As a dove has an internal compass, I pray you also permit the Holy Spirit to perfectly navigate your whole life. As a dove is associated with no bitterness, may it be so in your life too. As a dove is synonymous with peace, may the Spirit help you to be a peacemaker. As a dove is a picture of love and gentleness, may the Spirit cultivate those fruits in your life.
Worship Father in Spirit and Truth. Allow the Ruach HaKodesh to Teach, Help and Comfort you as gentle as a dove.
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