Just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 2 Corinthians 1:5
No matter how deep the grief -- or how heavy the burden and how depressing our loneliness seems -- there is comfort, for in all our afflictions we know that Christ suffered to free us from sin, the greatest affliction. We are never out of the presence of God. His love is immediately at hand, ready to meet every need, to restore our spirits, to heal our minds, to bless us with the peace that passes all understanding.
Yes, God is always near to comfort and to turn sadness into joy. He guides us when we are at a loss to know how to proceed. He holds out His gracious promises when we feel inconsolable, telling us to trust in Him. In His divine, never-failing love He speaks to our sadness or sense of loss. He constantly assures us of His strength, made perfect in our weakness. He sends the promised Comforter, the Holy Spirit to be always near us.
Knowing that God never fails His own, we can let go of our fears and sorrows, trusting that under His guidance all things will work together for our good. Thanks to His love in Jesus Christ, we are sustained and comforted.
PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, we thank You for letting us share in Your suffering so that we may be comforted and find joy. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996 (out of print), Concordia Publishing House. For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Jeremiah 31-32 Hebrews 8
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