The God of All Comfort

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

In his book “The Ninefold Path of Jesus”, author Mark Scandrette writes: “What’s the difference between avoiding pain and seeking appropriate comfort?

I have a friend who says, “The first episode of my favorite TV show is soothing. But if I’m watching the fifth episode in a row, I know I’ve crossed the line into numbing.”

Another friend comments, “A glass of red wine at the end of a long day is comforting. But if I’m pouring my third or fourth glass, I’ve slid into escape.”

Soothing activities like a warm bath, a heartfelt talk with a friend, or a solitary walk don’t usually become compulsive the way our escapes do.

The difference between comfort and avoidance is, ultimately, something you will only know for yourself.

What are the things you most often go to for comfort and escape? What would you consider limiting or giving up for a time to make space to mourn?”

At any time, we can look to Jesus Christ and receive comfort in Him.

Give thanks to the Lord, that He is Lord of all, and seek comfort in Him.

“It will greatly comfort you if you can see God’s hand in both your losses and your crosses.” – Charles H. Spurgeon

“But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus” – 2 Corinthians 7:6