Job 20-22 / 2 Corinthians 1:1-11 / Psalm 40:11-17 / Proverbs 22:2-4
When I don’t feel well, or I’ve had a bad day or a loss of some kind, the last thing I’m considering is taking care of or encouraging someone else. Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in our own difficulties that we forget there are those all around us who need support. When one is in leadership, there is not always an opportunity to properly process your own situation before there is a need for you to jump into support mode for someone else you love.
1 Corinthians 1:4 He comforts us in all our trouble so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.
God is our comfort, especially when we are feeling alone or overwhelmed. What does the word comfort mean? Does it mean a hug? A listening ear? A meal brought or sitting quietly together when someone feels alone? Let’s look at the word because I’m wondering if there is not some sort of strength that is brought when the Lord comforts us then we turn around and comfort another.
Comfort or parakaleo in the Greek means to call to one’s side, to speak to with exhortation, entreaty, comfort, instruction, etc. To console, encourage, strengthen. To instruct or teach.
It turns out I was on the right track with the meaning of the word. As I read the definition, I had an understanding that comfort comes when we choose to be in relationship with another. True comfort may come as a one-time offering, but I believe it is more effective when employed in the context of spending time in friendship and love with another.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, “Loving others is hard work.” It takes work to be in relationship. Some want to be available only for the highs, not the lows, the ups, not the downs. But those in true relationship over many years will embrace every season. We will embrace the “warts” and the beauties of another. We will love them when they are easy to get along with and when they are being difficult.
To do this, we must learn to walk in forgiveness and to see others through the eyes of Jesus. His perspective always gives a full picture. We usually see only the outward things of a person unless Holy Spirit helps us discern otherwise. And even with that discernment, we see only in part.
Let’s also not forget that when we are feeling weak or low, we receive encouragement when we reach out to support and encourage another. Not only am I giving what I have received, I’m receiving as I give! Acts 20:35 NLT tells us “And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
When life is hard, instead of drawing into yourself and forgetting others exist, try reaching out to someone in need. I believe you’ll find yourself strengthened and encouraged and your problems may even look a little smaller or more distant. When you have received something from someone, remember to turn around and give to someone when you have an opportunity. You will never regret the time you spend in giving to others!
