Comforting Troubles?

How many of you have had problems in life? I would guess all of us – if we are honest with ourselves – have had a number of setbacks, disappointments, illnesses, and losses. WE have probably also heard “God is good”- which is often followed by the question “why does God let bad things happen to good people?”.

The answer is simple- “for the Good of the Lord”! Most of us do not like that answer. While the statement is true, it is frustrating! It doesn’t seem right that somebody needs to suffer just so God can make a point. In fact, I usually resent it when it happens to me. But in looking back, I usually see one of two things: 1) either it was God’s latest attempt to get my attention and turn me away from a bigger disaster; or, 2) I see how God used me in that moment (or situation) to reach someone that I could not have otherwise reached.

I have also learned that over time, God will use our past troubles to help others going through similar challenges. In fact, the Apostle Paul wrote about that truth some 2000 years ago when in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 he wrote “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”

So, I can say to you today- if you are hurting ask for God’s compassion and comfort. He can and will provide it. And once He does, don’t be surprised if you find yourself encountering people with similar hurts who need you to help them receive what God gave you.

As a Christian, I believe that God put each of us on this earth at this time to make a difference in particular people’s lives. The way we do that is to shine the light Christ on those HE puts in front of US. We can’t do that if we do not let Him work in our lives. And I believe that once He has done His wondrous works in us - we can’t help but to “do unto others as I have done unto you”.

Be His light this week! The world needs us to do so.