Anchor Devotional

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The God of All Comfort

“Praise be to the God … of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Several years ago, I went through a nine-month period of cancer treatment. Though it was a challenging time, I clung tenaciously to God’s Word and wanted to note the blessings tucked inside the trial. For example, dozens of people expressed their care for me with cards and prayer support. I found I looked okay in a wig. I discovered that that my husband was an excellent caregiver.

And best of all was that I saw firsthand how God never leaves me or forsakes me (see Joshua 1:9). The “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” was drawing me close to His side. I understood intimately that He is near to the brokenhearted. His words echoed through my mind while the chemo drugs dripped into my veins. And while the radiologist “tattooed” me to ensure that the radiation would go in with precision, I fixed my thoughts on Jesus.

Jesus said, “My prayer is not for them [the disciples] alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message” (John 17:20). That means you and me! In our most fiery trials, He gives us comfort to comfort others.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS
2 Corinthians 1:3-7

INSIGHT
During our hard times, God trains and teaches us so we can help others later.

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Deuteronomy 25-27
Psalm 92
Acts 16

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