Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
[2 Corinthians 1:3-4]

Have you received comfort from God?
Then comfort others.

Have you received hope from God through Jesus Christ?
Then show that hope to others?

Have you found a peace that surpasses all understanding?
Then live peacefully with others.

Have you discovered true joy, even in the midst of sorrow, through the Gospel?
Then exude this joy for others to soak up.

Have you been forgiven through faith in Jesus Christ?
Then proclaim that forgiveness to others and…
…forgive as you have been forgiven.

Do you know God through Jesus Christ?
Then introduce others to Jesus.

This all seems like a no-brainer, because why not share this awesome news? Why not share peace and love and forgiveness with others? Why not share with others comfort when they are in need of comfort. And I am not talking about cliches like, “Everything will be all right” but rather a real hope that is grounded in something sure and certain.

But I don’t know how say this.

God does. So lift up your concerns to God and trust that the Holy Spirit will give you the right words, not cliches.

But how can I relate to someone who feels hopeless?

Share the hope you have through Jesus Christ. If death does not scare you, then why? Do you experience joy, then why? Do you know that your sins are forgiven, then say so and with confidence.

But this is easier said than done.

You’re right, when people are feeling hopeless or are suffering or are feeling despondent, it is difficult to know what to do. It can be nerve-wracking because you don’t want to mess things up. But think about the comfort you have through your faith in Jesus and then share that comfort with others.

There is no formula.
There are no magic words.

There is simply faith and trust in the one who has given you comfort in a world of discomfort. You know your faith. You know your hope. So live it for the sake of those who have no faith and for those who have no hope, but most of all…

…to the glory of God.

May you live in the comfort that God has given you through faith in Jesus. May you live in peace that can only come from the victory won through Calvary. May you live with a joy that radiates for all to see.

May God bless your day, in Jesus name, Amen!

The Pastor -|—