3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any [a]trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NKJV)
We need to both receive and give comfort. God does not make this aspect of our faith walk a one way street. He desires that with that which He gives, we too will give to others.
Comfort and compassion are traits that should be very visible in every believers life. We cannot expect God to give us that which we ourselves are unwilling to give. When God reaches out and provides us comfort in times of distress our spirits are lifted and our burden reduced. Others feel this too when we come along side them and provide the same. This may also open up an opportunity to speak Christ into their lives in an even bigger way, an eternal way.
The world is a harsh and broken place and people need us to be willing to reach out to them as God reaches out to us. People walk around constantly with burdens that we cannot see, looking for just a little compassion and comfort. The way to be aware of this is to give it before it is asked for.
Reflect on: Your willingness to provide comfort to others, to open yourself to their hurting and needs.
