Giving And Receiving Comfort

“My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” Psalm 119:50 

  

  It is encouraging to have doctors and nurses that understand and practice giving comforting words to their patients. But how terrible it would be to look for comfort from such people and only get cold words or indifference. So it is it with any situation that hungers for comfort. 

  God brings us comfort in many ways. Sometimes He uses people, or events, or changes in circumstances to encourage us. At other times it is a feeling in our spirit that God is with us, perhaps His Holy Spirit whispering into our heart that everything will work out fine. 

  I think that there are times we are so busy or preoccupied that we really don’t give much thought to the idea of giving or receiving comfort. But let our circumstances toss us into a stressful or trying situation, and then comfort becomes all important. 

  We will need comfort throughout our lives, and it is good to be always ready to give comfort and encouragement to others. A kind word or gesture, and a listening ear can make all the difference. We may never know how much an act of kindness and consideration can help someone in need of comfort. 

  Afflictions, hardships, illnesses and diseases can take a toll on us and leave us injured not only without, but within our souls. Sometimes we are injured due to the action or inaction of others. At other times life throws hardship into our path and leaves us worn and weary and wounded. Whatever the cause, we need comfort for our souls. 

  If you are in need of comfort, allow yourself to accept comfort from others. Be willing to engage other people, willing to reach out to others, and encourage them when they need comforting. Indeed, comforting others may be the salve you need for your own wounded soul. 

  Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for comforting us in our afflictions, and help us to be aware of others in need of comforting and encouragement. Amen.