2 Corinthians 1:4. "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."
COMFORT THEM. It may not take much: the pressure of a hand, the sympathetic look in your eye, a compassionate silence. It may not take long: the short talk on the phone, a few lines on a card, an appropriate email. It may not cost much: in fact, it probably would be better if it came from you personally, not a store. It may not seem like much: some measure worth in tangible terms – money, flowers, expensive gifts. But comfort comes in many different ways – God started it all off.
When disappointments come: draw near and pass on some experiences of your own. When trials come: take time to pray with one who is going over the path of testing. When pain comes: hold a hand with a gentle touch and try to be silent. When sorrow comes: pray first – then go and sit and stay as long as you are needed. Then leave. Comfort can be given in many different ways – the same way God gives.
Comfort the lonely with your presence: it takes time for one to know if you really care. Comfort the bereaved with your prayers: it is more important to let one know you intercede. Comfort the one in pain with your present: a card or bunch of flowers is a visible proof you care. Comfort the one in anger with your patience: to be able to vent to a hearer is a way to move on. Comfort is needed to bring different conclusions – the way God chooses.
An individual can comfort: sometimes one person is better that two or more because of the need. A couple can comfort: the interaction of husband and wife can give a larger perspective. A family can comfort: children often can give a sense of normalcy to one who has suffered a great loss. A church can comfort: the church family can rally around and meet great needs effectively. Comfort can meet many different needs – the way God supplies.
"O God of all comfort: I have experienced comfort from Thee countless times. I have had comfort from brothers and sisters on many occasions. I want to be in touch with what is going on so that I too, can meet the need for comfort whenever I see an opportunity to act in Christ's name. Amen."