Comfort In A Hurting World

How do we find comfort in a world where we are anything but comfortable? With all of the trials we face, how do we comfort others? Is it possible to be comforted in a world that is hurting?

Where do we fit into “Comfort”

Compassion – We need to show compassion to those who are going through  trials and troubles. (Proverbs 19:17; Zechariah 7:9-10; Colossians 3:12-13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 13:3; 1 Peter 3:8-9)

Obedience – We need to be obedient to God’s teachings. (Deuteronomy 30:11-14; Psalm 18:20-22; Psalm 119:4-8; Proverbs 8:32-33; 2 Corinthians 10:5)

Mercy – We need to show mercy to those who are struggling with trials and trouble, allowing them to lean on us as we encourage them to lean on Christ just as Christ had mercy on us. Remember, we have no excuse to judge others when God has been so merciful towards us. (Isaiah 54:10; Isaiah63:7; Daniel 9:9; Micah 6:8; Ephesians 2:4-5; 1 Timothy 1:12-14; Hebrews 4:15-17)

Forgiveness – We need to have a forgiving heart. If we forgive others, they may feel a burden lift from them just from knowing that you have forgiven them. (Proverbs 19:11; Matthew 5:23-24; Mathew 6:14-15; Mathew 18:32-35; Luke 6:37; Luke 11:4; Luke 17:3-4; Ephesians 4:32; 1 Peter 3:9)

Overcome – We can share our stories of times we were able to overcome trials and trouble to encourage others that they too can overcome. (Psalm 34:17-20; Psalm 56:13; Psalm 62:5-6; Jeremiah 15:20-21; John 16:32-33; Romans 12:21; 1 John 4:4; 1 John 5:4-5)

Respect – When we respect others, we give them a sense of importance. Everyone wants to feel like they matter. Feeling like they matter helps people find the strength to get through their trial. (Leviticus 19:3; Leviticus 19:32; Proverbs 11:16; Proverbs 15:5; Proverbs 19:23; Romans 1:29-31; Romans 12:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)

Thankfulness – Being thankful for all we have helps us to be able to comfort others. When we thank God for everything we have, we can be more positive and optimistic when helping someone through a difficult situation. (Deuteronomy 8:10; Ezra 3:11; Psalm 18:1-3; Psalm 100:4; Psalm 105:1; Psalm 118:1; Ephesians 1:3; Philippians 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18)

Where does God fit into “Comfort”? As you ponder this, remember that God’s mercy is greater than any sin, trial or trouble we face.

Psalm 9:9 – The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 27:5 – For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.

Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Psalm 55:22 – Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.

Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

Psalm 71:21 – you will increase my honor and comfort me once again.

Psalm 107:19 – Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress.

Psalm 147:3 – He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Matthew 11:28 – Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.

Philippians 4:13-14 – I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Yet it is good of you to share in my troubles.

James 5:13 – Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise.

Jeremy 8:18 – O my Comforter in sorrow, my heart is faint within me.

MORE SCRIPTURE:

Psalm 22:24; Psalm 94:19; Isaiah 40:28-31; Lamentations 3:22-24; 2 Corinthians 1:3-11

FINAL THOUGHT:

1 Peter4:8 – Above all, love one another deeply because love cover a multitude of sins.

* As you try to comfort those who are struggling, remember to love first as God has loved you. Lending a compassionate ear can go a long way in making a person feel less overwhelmed by their current situation.