Please make sure to read and comply with our Copyright Statement if you plan on using these devotionals for any type of publication (including websites).

A RETURN ON GOD’S INVESTMENT

(God) comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. – 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NLT)

            God is engaged in a ministry of comfort to all those who have trusted in Him. In the New Testament the word comfort means more than offering a sympathetic shoulder to rest our burdens on. It has the idea of granting courage to those who face various trials and struggles in life. It is the gift, not always of relief from the problem, but rather strength for the journey. No matter what difficulty we are dealing with, our relationship with God lets us face it with courage unknown to the world outside of Christ. It is an assurance that no matter what happens to us our relationship with God is secure. It is knowing without any doubt that God cares for us and the situation we find ourselves in.

            Our Heavenly Father expects us to take this courage He has given to us and offer it to others who are facing trials in their own lives. We are taking God’s gift and returning it, not to Him, but to the people He has brought across our path. God is glorified when those He has comforted begin to experience their own ministry of giving in this area. We have the great privilege of bringing the comfort of God we have received into the lives of all who are in need.

PRAYER THOUGHT: Lord, make me a source of comfort. Thank you for using me in this way.