Comfort Yourselves Together
1. We Need To Comfort One Another
I keep seeing messages that say, "We're all in this together." I could give opinions both for and against that statement, but let's not go there. Where I want to go is to the scriptures, specifically, I Thessalonians 5:11, "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do." North Carolina has been frozen for another five weeks, and there are those who agree with this mandate, and others who firmly disagree. But, no matter which side you are on in this coronavirus debate, we should put aside our disagreements and comfort one another. The Apostle Paul told the church to "comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do." Would someone say the same thing about us? Do we build up one another and comfort one another? Let's look at some scriptures that will help us feel better, and also help us comfort each other.
2. Comfort The Feebleminded
We are continuing in Paul's letter to the Thessalonians with our thoughts on comforting one another. "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men." (I Thessalonians 5:14) I have seen several reports on increasing anxiety levels, and it is getting worse among some, as the virus continues. Now that school is opening, not opening, partially opening, depending on where you live, it is bringing out more fear and dread for stressed families. Many families are facing the hardships of changing work schedules, with difficult school schedules, and they are already in a weakened condition. With the trouble I have breathing, it gives me great anxiety to try to wear a mask. I started out wearing them, but with the hot, humid weather, I have enough trouble breathing without a mask. I can tell that some people don't approve of me being in stores without a mask. In some places people are "unruly" towards others, and I am thankful that I haven't faced that yet. We need to comfort one another and support those who are weak. Paul also tells us to "be patient toward all men." It seems as though the Apostle wrote this verse for our church today! Remember this verse if you are tempted to ridicule someone who isn't doing as you think they should. Comfort, support, and be patient! Just as the Lord does for you!
3. The God Of All Comfort
Michael starts school on Monday, and we had not seen our oldest son and his family since the first of the year, so I asked them if we could come see them for a few days. The virus has kept us from our loved ones. It was such a joy to visit with them. We have missed them so much! Three year old Benjamin wanted to come home with us. There may be family and friends that you have not been able to spend time with this year. You may be going through some terribly difficult times and need a shoulder to lean on. Well, I want to encourage you today with II Corinthians 1:3-4. "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." We serve "the God of all comfort!" Many times I have been distressed and I cried out to my God, and He gave me peace deep within. We read in I Peter 5:7, "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." It is hard to get help from someone who doesn't care, but our Lord cares for us! His comfort is special because it not only helps us through our trouble, but we can then comfort others. God helped me after my Dad died, and I am able to sympathize with those who experience the same loss. If you need comforting today, call out to our loving Savior.
4. I'm Out Of My Comfort Zone
When I worked in an office our supervisors were often telling us to get out of our comfort zone. I didn't understand that because I worked more efficiently and felt better when I was comfortable in my work. They would do things, change our computer programs, move us to different working locations, to get us out of our comfort zones. My work load increased as I struggled to make the changes. I want to tell you today, I am completely out of my comfort zone! My heart aches for the children who are suffering in the world today. I am disgusted by sin that is committed openly and proudly. I hurt for those who don't know Jesus as Lord and Savior. God has blessed me and I have enjoyed the life He has given me, but this sinful world gets depressingly worse every day. I hate to think of what the future holds for my children and grandchildren. All I can do is keep trusting my Lord. "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs3:5-6) Also, I need to take my eyes off the world and look to Jesus. "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2) Jesus is the author of my faith, and I can be sure that He is the finisher of my faith. He is still in control! He knows all about it and nothing takes Him by surprise.
5. God Comforts A Broken Heart
Often my heart gets broken. It may be broken for someone who is suffering through storms and trials. It is sometimes broken because I fail, or am misunderstood, and cause others to hurt. It hurts when I can't do the things that I want to do, being hindered physically, and limited by my weakness. It brings me sorrow when I see the needs of others and I don't have the financial resources to ease their burden. And sometimes my heart is broken because of the words spoken to me by those I love. Sometimes when I am broken and the pain is bottled up inside I want to pour out my hurt, but I can't find a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on. "Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none." (Psalm 69:20) What can I do to find comfort when I feel like my heart is going to burst? I cry out to my loving Savior in prayer. "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." (Psalm 147:3) God hears and answers our prayer. Remember what God did for King Hezekiah when he turned his face to the wall and cried out to God? If you are suffering with a broken heart, and feel like you are faced against a wall, ask the Lord to give you comfort, and let Him turn your life around.
"1 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.
2 Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying,
3 I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore.
4 And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying,
5 Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD.
6 And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake." (II Kings 20:1-6)
6. Can We Be Too Comfortable?
I talked earlier about being out of my comfort zone, but I want to pose a different question today, "Can we be too comfortable?" The verses that come to mind use the phrase, "settled on his lees." And I am not talking about someone settled into a comfortable chair in their Lees jeans.
"Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity: therefore his taste remained in him, and his scent is not changed." (Jeremiah 48:11)
"And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will he do evil." (Zephaniah 1:12)
In Bible days the dregs would sink to the bottom of the wine and if left too long, the wine would be ruined. The wine was poured into other vessels from time to time to keep this from happening. Zephaniah's message about God's judgment was strong but the people of Jerusalem in Zephaniah's day didn't believe that God would do good, or do evil. That sounds like people today. It really bothers me to read a post on facebook that talks about God, and then uses profanity in the next sentence, like Paul described to Timothy. "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." (II Timothy 3:5) Are we so comfortable that we are denying the power of God? I believe that we are beginning to see what it's like to be "emptied from vessel to vessel" as Jeremiah described.
Let's look at another example? The last letter to the seven churches in the book of Revelation is often said to be the letter to our church age today. God told them, "I know thy works, that thou art neither cold not hot... So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold not hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." The media tries to make us comfortable with sin. The language and content of movies, songs, and even cartoons continues to get worse and worse. Don't get comfortable with things that are wrong. We must take a stand against evil. When God says something is sin, it does not do any good to call it by any other name.
"14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.
17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." (Revelation 3:14-19)
7. God Comforts Us In Song
I have been pushing myself a little harder lately, to get a little more done each day. While I was washing dishes I felt really tired and weary. This song came to my mind and I started singing from memory...
"I owe it all to You, Lord. All I have is You, Lord.
Take my life, make me what You'd have me be.
I'm Your child, and You're my Father,
I'm the clay, and You're the Potter,
Lord, You're the best thing that ever happened to me!"
As I sang and thought about how much God means to me I was blessed. And I thought about how I was even blessed to have dishes to wash, because that meant we ate another meal. God often comforts me through songs. Some of the most blessed times I have is when I am driving alone in the car, and singing one of the dear old hymns and God speaks to my heart, and it flows out my eyes in tears. Let God comfort you through song, and meditate on His goodness.
"I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.
My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD." (Psalm 104:33-34)
"Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;" (Ephesians 5:19)
"Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life." (Psalm 42:8)
8. We Shall Be Comforted
My daily Bible reading took me to Luke 16 this morning, to the familiar story of Lazarus and the rich man. This is the scripture that my Grandpa M. P. Beasley was preaching from when the Holy Spirit convicted my heart and I asked the Lord to save me. I am using verse 25 for our devotions today. "But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented." Sometimes we look around and see that many who are wealthy and prosperous in earthly things, are poor in spirit. We see others who are dear saints of God and they live on meager fare. Jesus said, "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted." (Matthew 5:4) If you ever feel like the people who are wicked are being lifted up high above the Christians in this life, you are not the first to feel this way. Read what Asaph had to say in Psalm 73. This was exactly how he felt, until verse 17, "Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end." Don't be envious of the riches of the wicked. We may mourn in this life, but we shall be comforted throughout eternity.
"1 <<A Psalm of Asaph.>> Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart.
2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped.
3 For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
4 For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm.
5 They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men.
6 Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.
7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish.
8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily.
9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
10 Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them.
11 And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High?
12 Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.
13 Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.
14 For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning.
15 If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children.
16 When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me;
17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end.
18 Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction.
19 How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.
20 As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.
21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins.
22 So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee.
23 Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.
24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.
27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.
28 But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works." (Psalm 73)
9. We Find Comfort In God's House
Five months ago Covid 19 closed our churches. I didn't think I would ever see the day when we would not be allowed to go to church in America. After several weeks of watching Pastor Tripp's sermons online, we were able to go back to church on Sunday mornings. I fully understood and experienced the praise and worship David had in Psalm 122:1. "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD." I find comfort at church! I enjoy the fellowship I have with my Christian brothers and sisters, even when I can't shake their hands, and I talk to them from six feet away. I learn and grow Spiritually as I listen to God's Word being preached so faithfully. I hear the prayer requests shared and I pray. I listen to the praise reports and I praise the Lord along with them. I find comfort with God's family. I have seen several posts where people give their opinion that people won't go back to church after Covid. Some say they won't feel safe being with other people. I think of the many Christians who meet in other countries even though they're not safe doing so. Others say that once people get out of the habit of going to church, they will not want to make the effort to go back to church. I don't think these writers know the joy and comfort I find in going to God's house. Yes, I am thankful for the internet and being able to watch and listen online, but I am so grateful for joining my Christian family in worship in the house of the Lord. "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD."
10. Find Comfort Knowing You Matter To The Lord!
Sometimes when I am feeling a little down and someone asks me a question I say, "It doesn't matter." Then if I sink a little lower I begin to feel like nothing matters. And when I start feeling alone, the enemy makes me feel like I don't matter. But, I read in Luke 12 this week that I do matter! God knows the number of hairs on my head. He provides all my needs. And He gave Himself to die for me! Many loved ones have been alone for the last five months and they may be feeling like their lives don't matter. Give them a call and let them know that they matter to you, and they matter to the Lord.
"6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?
7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?
29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
30 For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.
31 But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.
32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom."
11. Comfort In The Rain And The Sunshine
I enjoyed the sound of the rain falling on my tin roof the other night as I fell asleep. We have had more rain during the month of August than I can ever remember. So, when I walked out and the sun was shining today I found more comfort in the light. God created light on the first day, and that tells me that light is very important to us. I need sunshine! I am always happy to be out in the sun after the dark winter months. And just as I need the light of the sun, I also need the Light of the Son. I began reading in John and he opens his book with the Light. If you have been indoors most of the summer, it may give you comfort to go out and enjoy the sunshine. Take advantage of the cooler days as fall approaches. And take time to read in God's Word and bask in His Light.
"1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 The same was in the beginning with God.
3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.
6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.
8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.
9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." (John 1:1-8)
12. Comfy Clothes
I kept two of my grandchildren a while back and the girl changed clothes five or six times while they were here. The older brother came in a comfortable pair of shorts and t-shirt and since he had not spent time outside to get dirty, when it was time for bed he wore what he had on. The next morning he was comfortable in the same clothes, and since we were not going anywhere, I let him keep them on. Comfy clothes are just that... comfy! We have been talking about finding comfort during these difficult times and today I want to talk about comfy clothes. You may be like my grandson and get so comfortable in your comfy clothes you don't want to change. Sometimes when you are not feeling your best you may be tempted to lay around in your comfy clothes too long. It may help you feel better to get up, and get dressed. You don't have to put on your Sunday best, but it helps you to feel better when you wash up and put on clean clothes. I don't know, maybe it's just me, but when I go out shopping, I see more people I know when I look my worst. I feel better when I take time to put on some nice clothes and fix my hair a little before going out. Once I had been working in the garden and had to run to the hardware store so I just jumped in the car and went. When I came home and went to wash my hands I saw my reflection in the mirror and I said, "Did I really go to the store looking like this?" I was comfortable, but not very presentable. Taking a shower and putting on comfy clothes at the end of a hard day feels great. And if you are spending more time at home it feels good to wear some comfy clothes. But if you are feeling a little down and out, get up and get dressed, even if you have no where to go. Our scripture today is from Colossians 3. The Apostle Paul tells us that there are some things we need to "put off" and some things we need to "put on". Just as you make the decision what clothes you will put off and what you will put on, make the right decision about what to put on as a new person in Christ.
"8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him."
13. Finding Comfort In Doing The Right Things
When my breathing problems were really bad I kept a list of foods that I ate and tried to single out some that made me feel worse. My allergy test did not show that I was allergic to these foods, but with a trial and error process I discovered that I should not eat some things that I enjoy, such as peanuts and many corn products. I decided to cut out all the things that I thought might be causing me problems. I lost weight and felt the best I had felt in years. But, I got tired of drinking water, and I started making cookies for the grandchildren, and I felt so good I started eating some of the foods I had crossed off my diet. I grew weary in following the strict diet, and now I am beginning to feel hindered in my breathing again. We have often used Paul's verse in Spiritual discussions, "But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing." (II Thessalonians 3:13) With my personal example we see that we can also apply the premise to physical decisions. It is sometimes hard to keep on doing the right thing, but it is rewarding. Paul also said, "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6:9) I am determined to get back on the right track. I need to eat the right foods. I also need to stay in the house during these bouts of high humidity and thunder storms. It is hard to not get weary in doing the right thing, but it is rewarding. Try not to get weary in well doing. It may help you to keep a social distance in public, and wash your hands often. And when things get tough, as they are these days, you can find comfort in knowing that you did what you thought was best.
14. Sleep Can Bring Comfort
Many times when we are troubled we just want to go to bed and sleep... but with the trouble, comes anxiety and we can't sleep. When we are home a lot and we sit around all day, watching television or being on the internet can also keep us from falling asleep. Pain and discomfort can rob us of our sleep. A good night's sleep can really help bring us comfort, but what about these times when we can't sleep? First of all, God makes it clear that we need sleep. "It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep." (Psalm 127:2) If fear of tomorrow is keeping you awake, remember that God is watching over you and He never sleeps. "I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety." (Psalm 4:8) "Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121:4) "When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet." (Proverbs 3:24) If you just don't feel sleepy, it might help to move your body and work some during the day. Working in the yard or cleaning the house can relieve tension and make you a little tired so you can sleep. It also may give you a feeling of accomplishment that helps the mind. "The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much:..." (Ecclesiastes 5:12) A quiet time before bedtime can help induce sleep, such as putting away screens, and reading your Bible or a relaxing book. Sometimes when I lay down my mind goes in a thousand directions and I can't sleep. When that happens I get up and jot down all the ideas that are flooding my thoughts. It feels like I have lifted the lid off a boiling pot, releasing the pressure that has built up inside. Last of all, I like to pray while I am drifting off to sleep. Talking to the Good Shepherd does more for me than counting sheep.
15. Exercise Can Make You Feel Better
For over a year my Mom went to an exercise program offered with the "Silver Sneakers" at the Y. She said that it helped her. Since the Covid closures she has had a few aches in her back and shoulders after working in the yard and she thinks it is because she isn't doing the structured exercises each week. I know that I feel better when I take time to exercise. Some days I have a hard time getting started, but I do feel better when I am done. And as I mentioned yesterday, I sleep better when I get some exercise. I had much rather work out in my garden, than work out in my living room, but I think both help. Our verses are found in I Timothy 4:7-8, "But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come." These are a few more references to physical exercise and play in the Bible. "He will surely violently turn and toss thee like a ball into a large country:..." (Isaiah 22:18) "And he shall spread forth his hands in the midst of them, as he that swimmeth spreadeth forth his hands to swim: ..." (Isaiah 25:11) "Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain." (I Corinthians 9:24) I recently read a post written by a mother with a toddler and she didn't think that she had time in her busy schedule to exercise, but she decided to work out for ten minutes everyday for 30 days. She stated in her article that she felt so much better after the month and had even lost a little weight. If you are feeling sluggish, or tired from being home the last few months, try to get a little exercise. Start slow, maybe just walking in your house, ten minutes each day, and after a while you might add a little time or intensity. Try it if you are able, and let me know how you feel after thirty days. Exercise makes us tired, but I think it can help our physical health, build strength, and release stress. It's a win all the way around if we don't overdo it.
16. It's Not Wrong To Need Comforting
Some people are really concerned about the Coronavirus, and are not going out into public places. While others think that the media is spreading fear as part of a hidden agenda. There are also those who fall somewhere in the middle ground. We are struggling, and hurting, and divided, and the common thread is that we all need comforting. It is not wrong to be troubled. I am reading in John and I noticed three times that Jesus was troubled. First of all, I see that He was troubled by the sorrow of others. He knew that He was going to raise Lazarus from the dead, but He wept with Mary and Martha. It is helpful to weep with those who weep. "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep." (Romans 12:15)
"33 When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,
34 And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.
35 Jesus wept.
36 Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!" (John 11:33-36)
Our next example follows the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, as His hour had come to give His life for us. There are times in our lives when we are troubled by things that we know are coming. It is normal to be troubled by an upcoming surgery, or tests that we know are coming. We can also be troubled and anxious about the unknown. "Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour." (John 12:27)
Our final scripture tells us that Jesus was troubled over the betrayal of a friend. Judas Iscariot had followed Him and been with Him during His ministry on earth. We know that he was trusted by the other disciples because he carried the money bag. Jesus knew from the beginning that Judas would betray Him. (John 6:71) Yet, even while He was being betrayed, Jesus called him "Friend". (Matthew 26:50) "When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me." (John 13:21) We also can be betrayed by a friend and find ourselves needing comfort. These examples in the life of Jesus show us that it is normal to be troubled and need comforting. As you look around you, you can't see the pain and trouble others are carrying on their shoulders and in their hearts. Be loving. Be kind. Be comforting.
17. "Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled"
We saw in John 11, 12, and 13 that Jesus was troubled and if we had to end there it would be bleak for us. He told the disciples that He was leaving. "Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." (John 13:33-34) But, praise the Lord we come to chapter 14 where Jesus comforts His followers.
"1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know."
Jesus told the disciples that He was leaving. He knows that they are troubled, so He gives them hope for the future. He tells them He will prepare a place for them in heaven. He also gives them hope for another Comforter. We also find comfort in those two promises. When we believe on Jesus and ask Him to be our Savior these promises are given to us. He gives us comfort from our troubles in these two promises!
"16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." (John 14:16-18)
One more thing before we close. John is the only one who wrote that Jesus was "troubled". I believe this is because John was so close to the Lord. I can put on a smile and hide my troubles, but after 42 years of marriage Michael can tell when I am troubled because we are so close and we love each other. Keep a check on those you love. You may be the only one close enough to know they are troubled. Call your parents and your children and let them know you love them. It is important that we love one another and comfort one another during these troubled times.
18. Troubled About Many Things
This.
I have seen several posts shared with this one little word, "This." I believe they are saying, "This is worth reading." Maybe, "This is what I'm talking about." Also, "This is important to me." Well, as we continue our devotions on comfort in times of trouble, "This" verse speaks all of this to me. "And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:" (Luke 10:41) Some days I am full of the cares of this world and it runs out of my eyes in tears. I hurt for the children. Some nights the troubles of the times rob me of my sleep. I fear for the sin of the wicked. I know judgement is coming. Jesus could just as well have put my name right here when He said, "thou art careful and troubled about many things:" Let's look at this story...
"38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:38-42)
Martha received Jesus into her house, and there may have been a small multitude with Him. She felt the need to serve them and she was overwhelmed. She asked Jesus to have Mary help her. In all the things that Martha felt she needed to do, she was overlooking the most important thing. Three times in the scriptures we find Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus. Here she is hearing His word. In John 11:32 she fell at His feet in anguish. "Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died." And she also worshiped at His feet as she gave Him the best she had. "Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment." (John 12:3) I often feel like there are so many things I "need" to do, and it makes me feel overwhelmed and troubled. During those times I need to change my role from Martha, to Mary and hear His Word. (Read my Bible.) Cast all my cares on Him. (Pray.) And give my all to Him in worship.
19. In Distress, In Debt, And Discontent
When I was thinking about our devotions on trouble my mind went to young David in the Old Testament. He experienced a lot of trouble. He killed Goliath with a sling and a stone and was triumphant. "And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom?" (I Samuel 18:7-8) King Saul's jealousy was so strong he tried several times to kill David.
"1 David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him.
2 And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men.
3 And David went thence to Mizpeh of Moab: and he said unto the king of Moab, Let my father and my mother, I pray thee, come forth, and be with you, till I know what God will do for me." (I Samuel 22:1-3)
David fled and became captain over a small army of men, all who were in distress, in debt, and discontented. He was not the only one with troubles. He went to hide from his trouble and four hundred men went with him. Sometimes when we go through trials and troubles we feel isolated and our discouragement tells us that no one else has problems like we do. But, we all have problems. You are not alone. You may be in distress, in debt, and discontented. Right now you might feel like hiding out. And that's ok for now. But, remember, David didn't plan to hide out for ever. He asked the king of Moab to let his father and mother find protection with him, "till I know what God will do for me." Even in his time of trouble he was looking out for his parents. And he was trusting in his God. The Prophet Samuel had already anointed David to be the next king, and David was waiting on the Lord. The world seems dark and dreary, but God might have plans to use you in an important way. Don't give up hope. Keep reading your Bible and praying. Remember, we are heirs of The King! (By the way, I think David's list of mighty men in II Samuel 23 included some of the men in this little army of the discontent.)
"16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us...
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:16-18 & 28)
20. Why Are You Troubled?
We have been talking about being troubled and needing comfort, and today I continue with the story of the two followers of Jesus on the road to Emmaus. They were sad and talked of Jesus as they walked together.
"15 And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.
16 But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.
17 And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?
18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?
19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:...
25 Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:
26 Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?
27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.
29 But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them.
30 And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.
31 And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
32 And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?" (Luke 24)
They returned to Jerusalem to find the other disciples.
"34 Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.
35 And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.
36 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?
39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?
42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.
43 And he took it, and did eat before them.
44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,"
Jesus asked, "Why are ye troubled?" He showed them who He was and opened their understanding. We are often troubled by things we don't understand. If you are burdened down with cares, and weary with worry, look to Jesus. He loved us so much He died for us, and He can give us peace in the midst of our trouble. "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) Why are you troubled? Jesus is greater than all your problems.
21. Is Anything Too Hard For God?
For almost three weeks now we have been looking at ways to find comfort from the Lord and ways to comfort one another. As I begin each new devotional series I will make a list of Bible verses that come to mind that I could use as daily inspiration. I don't know that I used any of the verses that I had for my working copy, but the Lord seemed to impress my heart and mind with a new scripture thought each day. I would like to add a summation of all these devotionals and say that sometimes, even when we have tried our best to find comfort from the Lord and to comfort one another, we just have to give it to the Lord in prayer. Many times we come to the place where we say that we have done all that we can do, and we have to put it in the Lord's hands. We can do this because there is nothing too hard for our God! My inspiration today comes from Bible verses and also a song written by Marcia Henry in 1999.
"Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son." (Genesis 18:14)
"Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:... Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?" (Jeremiah 32:17 & 27)
Is Anything Too Hard For God?
Verse 1:
It's out of your hands, you've done all you can do
You've given God the problem, it's no longer up to you
You've prayed the prayer of faith, you're standing on God's truth
While you're waiting on the answer, He has a question for you
Chorus:
Is anything too hard for God?
Who's got a problem beyond His power to solve?
Are there situations He's not the Master of?
Is anything too hard for God?
Verse 2:
Only believe, trust His word, you'll see
His plans are now unfolding, performing perfectly
It's clear how much He loves you, look at all He's done
For all your questions, there's really only one
Chorus:
Is anything too hard for God?
Who's got a problem beyond His power to solve?
Are there situations He's not the Master of?
Is anything too hard for God?
22. Our Final Comfort
We all need comforting from time to time, but when the Lord calls His children home time will be no more and all our troubles will be gone for ever and ever. God will wipe away all our tears. If you have never asked Jesus to be your Lord and Savior, please ask Him today. We are not promised tomorrow, and one day it will be too late. The end of time will be everlasting torment for those who have rejected Jesus. Believe that you are lost and Jesus is the Son of God and only way to heaven. Believe that Jesus died on the cross to pay the debt for your sin and that He rose again and is alive in heaven with God the Father. Ask Jesus to forgive you of your sin and trust in Him. He will forgive you, and save you, and give you everlasting life. Only God can wipe away your tears and give you everlasting comfort.
"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son." (Revelation 21:1-7)
