Good morning. As a parent, one of the privileges we enjoy is bringing comfort to our children. While opportunities for bringing such comfort may be more frequent when our children are young, we all know that the need for being comforted never ends. Being trusted enough by our adult children to be brought into their confidence when they are in need is just as much a privilege and joy to a parent as it was when they were small enough to sit on our lap. Bringing comfort to a person you love represents a moment of bonding, and of trust; as well as of intimacy, and love.
I think it would be hard for any parent that enjoys a healthy relationship with their child to argue against the value of being the one to bring them comfort. At the same time, it would be hard to argue against the value of being comforted when we are the one in need.
Are you in the habit of robbing your Father God of the joy of bringing you tender and compassionate comfort? Do you feel that it is a matter of personal strength to pretend that you don’t need to be comforted?
The Word of God is filled with verses that describe God’s desire and ability to bring us needed comfort. This is true of the Old Testament, as God frequently reminds His people of their need for Him and of His love for them. In the New Testament we continue to read of offers and promises for comfort from God the Father and from Jesus Christ our Lord.
The following are a few such examples:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Do those sound like the words of someone who would be annoyed when you turn to them for help and for comfort? Or do they sound like the words of our Lord and Father God who find joy in holding their loved ones close?
Clearly, God is able to comfort us, protect us, guard us, encourage us, and to love us through every situation we will encounter in this life. There is no question that He is able, therefore the only question is whether or not we are willing.
Please take a moment and allow your mind’s eye to capture an image of your heavenly Father as He holds you close and comforts you. As you meditate upon that wonderful image, what do you see in His face? That’s right, you see love and compassion. As you look upon the heavenly Father holding His child close, you see satisfaction and joy. You see all of the wonderful things you could ever see in an earthly parent as we love and care for our precious child.
Do not rob the God of heaven of His precious and joyful moments with you in His arms. You need Him, and He longs to hold you close. Set aside your ego and pride and run into His arms.
Vern