God, our comfort

​3-24-21
Today’s devotion is based on 2 Corinthians 1:5, “For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.”  
Today’s verse begins by praising God for providing comfort. Christians are not miraculously protected from troubles or trials in their lives. This was something that Paul knew well as he frequently suffered from persecution for his faith. He was sustained by his faith and the comfort of God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
In this letter to the Corinthians, Paul tells the people of Corinth that where there is suffering, there is also ongoing comfort that comes as a result of Jesus’ incredible suffering. This is the glory of Christ crucified, the glory of the cross. God does not see our suffering from a distance and leaves us to drag ourselves through it alone. Instead, God suffers with us; he carries us through hardship and shares his comfort with us.
Please pray with me the prayer for today: Heavenly Father, gracious God, creator and sustainer of all things, seen and unseen; we thank you for your continual presence, particularly during times when life seems harsh and unfair. Help us to understand that where there is suffering, there is also comfort. Support us as we share your comfort with those in need. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.