We all need comfort and to be comforted from time to time.

This world can oftentimes weigh heavy on us and it can come upon us seemingly all of a sudden. We hear of so much distress in this world. It’s hard not to absorb it and for it ultimately to affect us.

We may be going through difficult times ourselves. In this time of social distancing and fear of this virus, we can feel quite alone. Who is there. to comfort our hearts and minds and to soothe our spirits.

Well, our God. He’s always there and he’s never left.

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

The weight of trouble can be so heavy that it feels like a presence. I’m sure we’ve all experienced it from time to time. And there seems to be no hope, no change, no prospect of a brighter future. Especially if we’re so surrounded by negative information and thoughts. Let’s not dwell there. Let’s turn our attention to other things that are sure and certain.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Is God real? Is He present at all times? The answer is a resounding Yes! Does He love us? Yes, again. Does He know what’s going on? Of course. Does He know how I feel? Always. Does He know how tired and weary I am? Absolutely.

“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 tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” II Corinthians 1:3-4

God is always there. He promised the presence of His Holy Spirit to indwell us, to lead, guide and to comfort us. When we’re overwhelmed by circumstances and sorrow we need to turn to Him. He is very present and He is always ready to listen.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Most of the time, the first thing we need when we need comfort is rest. We’ve been going and going, doing and doing, all the while absorbing negative information and ideas from others. We need rest. We need to release those things we cannot control or change. We need to let go and give to God our hearts and minds. We need to share with Him or concerns.

“Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.  Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:26-28

We have the Holy Spirit as our Comforter. He indwells us and fills our heart with the mind of God. We simply need to pause, rest and listen. He can give us the renewed strength we need and give us a chance to see things in a new perspective. We may not be taken out of a situation, but through the strength of God, we can go through it.

“Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant.” Psalm 119:76

What encourages you? Is it reading His word? Is it praying? Is it the kindness of a faithful friend? Is it the lyrics of a song. Is it the beauty in the world around you? Is it in the eyes of a loved one? Whatever it is seek it. Do you need to be the one to comfort another? Sometimes getting out of ourselves and meeting the needs of another can give us strength, encouragement and comfort.

My beloved. Know you’re never alone. Know you’re supremely loved and know that the God of ALL comfort is there ready and waiting to fill your heart with His love, peace and joy.

Get some rest. Reset your focus. Plant your feet firmly in your faith and lean into Him. He is ready and willing to comfort you.