Ministry Resources

Day 247: Comfort for the Downcast

Author: Richard J. Bennett

Today’s Scripture: 2 Corinthians 7:2-7

Central Thought: God comforts the downcast.

Have you ever cried while watching a TV commercial? I have to admit that I have cried more than once after watching a Hallmark greeting card commercial. Probably, most of us can think of a time when we were feeling down and received a card in the mail or a phone call from a friend that cheered us.

God comforts the downcast. In Paul’s case, comfort came in the form of a good report from Titus concerning the faith and obedience of the believers in Corinth. Paul had written a harsh letter to deal with a bad situation in the church and was unsure of how it would be received. When Titus returned with a positive report, Paul was greatly relieved; he was comforted.

God comforts the downcast. And often He uses other people to do so. Be alert for His voice. He may direct you to send a card, write an e-mail, make a phone call, or visit someone who is downcast. Sometimes it makes a huge difference just knowing someone cares and will listen with compassion and pray. You do not have to be able to fix the problem or to answer all the questions. Just be there! Place a comforting hand on a shoulder and offer a simple, sincere prayer. You can be used by God to comfort the downcast.

Devotional Prayer: God, thank You for comforting the downcast. I am willing to let You use me as a vessel through which You can comfort others.

Today’s Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:7; Psalm 47:1-9; Proverbs 22:16

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