Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
When was the last time you felt down? Do you remember the reason? Maybe it was because of the loss of a loved one or pet, or maybe because of an injury, the loss of a job, or just an overall bad day. No matter what it was, the point is you were sad.
When we as people feel sad, we try to find something to comfort us, whether it’s a good show, some tasty food, or maybe some music. There are so many things that can comfort each person.
When I am feeling down, no matter what the reason, I tend to turn to the people in my life. Two people in particular come to mind: my mom and my best friends. These people always seem to know what to do or what to say to cheer me up.
In today’s passage, we see that God is a God of compassion and comfort. He is like that best friend or that family member who knows exactly how to cheer you up. He sees our troubles and comes to our side to fill us with His overflowing comfort and compassion.
However, just as with friends and family, this compassion cannot be a one-sided deal. In today’s passage, God calls us not only to receive His compassion, but also to pass it along to those going through trouble around us. Now, I know this can be easier said than done sometimes, but we don’t have to be afraid or nervous because it is not by our own strength that we are showing compassion, but by God’s strength and compassion working through us.
Let’s let God’s compassion guide us both in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
For Reflection:
- Think of those around you—family members, friends, coworkers. Who do you think most needs you to share the compassion of Christ with them today? Make an effort to reach out and encourage them.
By Gabi Brunner
