Comfort from the Lord
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY….. “For even when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn—fighting without and fear within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.” 2 Corinthians 7:5,6 ESV
Recognizing the “daily” miracles and the “common place” interventions the Lord uses in our life requires spiritual insight and perception.
When we are in distress, troubled and our faith is being challenged we can count on that which the Lord alone can provide. Paul opens his second letter to the Corinthians saying, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction…” (2 Corinthians 1:3,4 ESV) We have the assurance that the “Lord is with us” in the “flood”, “fire” and the shaking of life. That which He provides is like none other.
However, we often need “God with skin on.” That reality is clear in scripture as well. Paul says that God comforts us so we can comfort others.  “…who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” (2 Corinthians 1:4 ESV)
Paul as one who suffered many afflictions and troubles for the cause of Christ and just from life itself, knew what it was to be comforted by God and to extend comfort and encouragement to others. But he also knew what it was to received comfort from others.
Paul’s relationship with Titus, one of his fellow workers, was a significant one. We find an interesting commentary about Titus in 2 Corinthians 2, “When I came to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ, even though a door was opened for me in the Lord, my spirit was not at rest because I did not find my brother Titus there.”  (2 Corinthians 2:12,13 ESV) For some unknown reason the opportunity to preach the gospel was laid aside due to the absence of Titus to be there as a companion to Paul. It is important to see that we are called to journey “with” those God places into our life at significant times and for special purposes.
Paul leaves Troas and goes to Macedonian. There he finds challenges and troubles. There doesn’t seem to be the “open door” that he observed in Troas, but when Titus came Paul was strengthened and encouraged. Often in our lives just the “right” person showing up or being with us is enough to bring strength and encouragement. That was true for the great apostle and it is true in our life.
When facing tough times you can count on the Lord’s presence and help, both through that which He alone can provide, but often through others that come into our lives at the right time. That is what I have experienced.
Prayer for today…. Lord thank You that You are the “God of all comfort.” There is no situation that is outside of Your notice and intervention in our life. Thank You that You often “show up in the flesh” through uisng others in our life. Help us to be open and aware of all the ways you help and comfort in time of need.