GETTING AND GIVING COMFORT
“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
There’s a story of a lady who kept an ordinary cardboard box sitting on a bookcase in her home. The box was filled with notes, cards, and letters, offering love and encouragement at a time when her life was filled with sadness.
She was housebound for several years caring for her husband who had Alzheimer’s disease. As each card arrived, it provided her and her husband with a cheerful message telling of the sender’s prayers, love, and support. The words on the cards were often exactly what she needed to make it through the day.
When her husband passed away, and she moved to rebuild her life without him, she began sending cards to others who were experiencing the same kind of pain, remembering how much they helped her.
It doesn’t take long to send a simple note saying, “I’m praying for you” or “You are in my thoughts today.” With the technological advances of our world today, it’s easy to send someone a quick e-mail of encouragement, but there is still nothing like holding a card in your hand, knowing that the sender took time to think of you and your situation.
George William Childs, American publisher who lived from 1829-1894, once said, “Do not keep the alabaster box of your love and friendship sealed up until your friends are dead. Fill their lives with sweetness. Speak approving, cheering words while their ears can hear them and while their hearts can be thrilled and made happier. The kind things you mean to say when they are gone, say before they go.”
Ask God to make you a blessing today in someone’s life who may need a note of encouragement and love. Continually pray that His presence will surround those in your life who are going through difficult times.
David Stone
Lakeway Baptist Church
Humble,
