Living Free - April 27, 2018

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Thoughts for Today

As we choose to trust God through our trials, he will bring good things from even the most difficult situations. One of these good things is described in today's scripture: He comforts us in our troubles so that we can comfort others who are suffering. His comfort gives us the strength to comfort others. His comfort builds our faith so that we can comfort others. His comfort gives us the desire to comfort others. His comfort demonstrates how we can comfort others.

The process of suffering, perseverance and proven character results in hope. Hope in the goodness and mercy of God. Hope in all that he has promised us. And the empowerment to share that hope with others.

Consider this …

Ask God to help you use every experience in your life, every challenge and trial you have had, every mistake you have made … and all that you have learned … to help others going through similar things. Ask him to help you demonstrate his love and comfort to others, just as he comforts you during your difficult times.

Prayer

Father, thank you for your love and comfort. I thank you that as I trust you and rest in you, you will bring good from even the most difficult times in my life. Thank you for comforting me so that I can comfort others. Help me to be faithful in demonstrating your love. In Jesus' name …

These thoughts were drawn from …Completely Free! A Group Study of Romans 1-8 by Dan Strickland. Everyone struggles from time-to-time, but we can have confidence that in Christ we are completely free from sin's slavery, from condemnation, and from fear of failure. This group study of Romans 1-8 and 12 helps Christians break out of the dull routine of a stagnant spiritual life. Applying the truths found in Romans can transform any believer into a person eager to follow God's will. This study can also serve as a powerful evangelistic tool by explaining the message of salvation as presented in Romans. Suggested uses include home Bible studies, cell groups, Sunday school classes, support groups and personal enrichment.