Friday, March 27
Comfort
Many of you are experiencing a “Stay Home, Work Safe,” order from your governmental leaders. Out of love for others and respect for authorities your daily routine has been turned upside down. For some, it brings the challenge of parenting in a very limiting environment. For others it has resulted in the loss of income. For all of us, the need to be physically distant reinforces the harsh reality that this virus is dangerous.
In the middle of the danger, you and I are blessed to have a God of mercy and comfort. The apostle Paul was inspired to write these words:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
The Greek word, which is translated here as “comfort,” has the idea that a person relies on the salvation they have from God as they speak words of encouragement to others. Although we ourselves may face trouble, we have the assurance that God is with us, Thus our words take on a Godly dynamic as we speak (write/text) encouragement to others.
Another helpful definition is to look at the Latin roots for the word. Com (with) fort (strength). When God comforts us, he gives us strength. When we comfort others, we give them the strength which comes from God.
“God is our refuge and strength.”
Psalm 46:1
Lord, thank you for the salvation I have through Christ. Help me to rely on you today for the strength which I need. Please use me to bring your strength to others. Amen.
Note: If you want to use the time at home to explore the Bible you may want the try The Bible Project.
click here.
