When we find ourselves needing to comfort others, but not knowing what to say or do, let us not think twice of just showing up. Just being present, to listen, and to take care even of menial things for the
person is enough.
And when we are at a loss for words, may we not hesitate to even sit in silence. Our mere presence, and the time we give, are enough to communicate that we truly care.
When someone in pain shares her grief, her pain is somehow divided. Lessened to a degree that could at least help her carry on another day.
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17
Our Savior Himself knows the agony of grief, and extreme anguish as He faced His imminent death. He requested His closest friends to accompany Him, as He prayed to the Heavenly Father.
“He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Matthew 26:37-38
Laying down our time, setting aside our other priorities to be with a grieving friend is one of the ways we can show love. God is close to the brokenhearted, and so we should follow His lead and be there for
those who need someone to lean on.
And just as we receive comfort from our Savior when we pour our hearts to Him, may we be like Him too. Let us not hesitate to comfort those that He wants to physically embrace. May we also take the opportunity to point our grieving friend to Jesus, our one and only safe place, our refuge.
“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, 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 1:3-4
Thank you for reading our devotional today. Kindly read John 15:12-13 for a deeper dive on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: When was the last time you comforted someone? How did you comfort that person, and were you able to point Him to the God of all comforts?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you that in you we find a safe place, a refuge. Comfort in times of our distress. May you bless us with the grace to pay it forward to others who are grieving, so that we can also point them to you. Amen.