God of Comfort and Grace

God of Comfort and Grace

And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."
2 Corinthians 12:9a

Recommended Reading
Romans 5:1-5

People respond to pain and suffering in two different ways, depending on how they view God. People who don't know God or have a wrong perception of Him are often offended that God would allow them to suffer and so become angry with Him, or turn away from Him. But those who know God personally react just the opposite--they turn toward God in painful moments because they know He offers comfort, security, and a ready refuge.

During the coming Tribulation, Revelation 6:15-17 says that people all over the earth will flee and try to hide from God's presence and judgment. Their pain turns them away from God because they don't know Him. But the apostle Paul is an example of the opposite--one who turned to God when he suffered: "Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake" (2 Corinthians 12:9b-10a).

Does pain cause you to run toward or away from God? Turning to Him in faith today will give you reason to turn to Him for comfort tomorrow.

Our afflictions prepare us for receiving the grace of God.
John Calvin