“Praise be to … 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
God’s comfort for you today is more than just a cozy hug or a kind word. It’s more than a cute image sent on social media or even a thoughtful card received in the mail. God’s comfort is a divine empowerment designed precisely for you by the One who made you and knows you.
Your merciful Father is familiar with your pain. Isaiah calls Him “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (53:3). He is the source and originator of all compassion, as Paul notes in today’s 2 Corinthians passage. God gives you His Spirit to not only endure faithfully, but to show other believers what is possible.
Consider that your current trial may be the “training ground” for your future ministry. He is certifying you for service the way no textbook can. Paul further explains that his own sufferings served a purpose to teach him “not to rely on ourselves but on God” (v. 9). The humility and total dependence gained “in the fire” form you more into His likeness. Healed wounds become credentials so that you are not just a survivor but also equipped to be a guide.
Your merciful Father is familiar with your pain. Isaiah calls Him “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (53:3). He is the source and originator of all compassion, as Paul notes in today’s 2 Corinthians passage. God gives you His Spirit to not only endure faithfully, but to show other believers what is possible.
Consider that your current trial may be the “training ground” for your future ministry. He is certifying you for service the way no textbook can. Paul further explains that his own sufferings served a purpose to teach him “not to rely on ourselves but on God” (v. 9). The humility and total dependence gained “in the fire” form you more into His likeness. Healed wounds become credentials so that you are not just a survivor but also equipped to be a guide.
Scripture Focus
2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Insight
“Every day, in every circumstance, God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, but you might be aware of only three of them.” (pastor and theologian, John Piper)
Bible In A Year
- Job 26-28
- Psalm 55
- Luke 18