It is our tendency to cry out to the Lord when we are in trouble, and then, during better times, to withdraw into an insular existence with both God and our fellow human beings kept at safe distance. Past suffering can provide excuse for present self-comfort; we feel entitled because of all we've been through. For the sake of our own mental health (we tell ourselves), we grant ourselves permission to withdraw from the discomforts of the sufferings of others. In so doing we choose our own modes of comfort ahead of the solace of the Holy Spirit, who would have us remain engaged with other people even when they are suffering: especially when they are suffering.
Bearing one another's burdens requires being present for one another. Abiding in the Lord requires we expend the energy to be vigilant for the sake of His life in us, and on behalf of the precious souls He places in our path. Is it comfortable? No! But only through a willingness to be uncomfortable for His sake do we move into the circle of the precious and unequaled comfort of abiding in Him.
Father, keep us present in the lives of those who need us, because You have been present for us. Thank You for the peace that passes understanding that surrounds us as we trust in You to be our defender and our strength. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that surround us. Amen.
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God does not comfort us to make us comfortable, but to make us comforters.
J.H. Jowett
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