Our God of Comfort

 

God comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.  When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:4 ( NLT)

One of the greatest promises of heaven is that there will no longer be any pain or suffering.  To someone who is hurting today, however, that promise may offer little comfort.  The immediacy of pain is not easily ignored or deferred (nor should it be).  When someone hurts right now, right now is when that person needs comfort.

That’s where you come in.  In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he made special reference to the value of God’s comfort and how it ought to inspire people to comfort one another.  “Comfort others just as God comforts you.”  One of the only sure things you can count on is that God will comfort you.  Knowing this brings a sense of peace even in difficult times.  In a similar way, you can be there with comfort for someone who hurts.  Sometimes just the knowledge that you’re only a phone call away is enough to get a person through a tough time.

God also offers a listening ear to those who are in need through the vehicle of prayer.  In a like manner, you can offer your willingness to listen to a hurting friend.  Often one of the most important steps to overcoming a hurtful experience is talking about it.  When you sit with a hurting person and listen, you provide comfort and help move along the all- important process of grieving.

Whether you are simply available to a friend or are taking an active role in helping that friend move beyond the pain, the most important thing to do is love that person.  God’s love is immeasurable and doesn’t go away.  Draw from God’s love as much as necessary, and offer it to someone in need of comfort