24 Aug September 27 Daily Devotional

A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON PAUL’S SECOND LETTER TO THE CORINTHIANS

WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER

2 Corinthians 1:6-7 “If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.”

When covid was at its height there was a strong feeling of isolation.  However, because of social media and instant communication you were able to soon learn that what you were experiencing many others were in the same boat.  There is a saying, “misery loves company.”  This means that people who are feeling miserable or discontent are often comforted by the idea that they are never alone.”  What is happening to them is happening to many others as well.

We were all in the same boat, experiencing similar emotions, faced with parallel challenges, and faced the same uncertainties.  No one knew the future.  Information from national leaders often was contradictory.  What was it that helped you get through that most difficult time.

As a Christian the Bible reminds us that we are all “one in the body of Christ.” No member of His body is more or less important.  We do not have the same experiences yet we are filled with the same love of God in Christ Jesus.  “If God is for us, then nothing can be against us.” (Romans 8:31-37)

As your life journey moves forward and you look around at what is happening to those around you, one thing never changes according to today’s words from 2 Corinthians 1:6-7, you share with them sufferings and comfort.  The source of your strength is not in yourself, or one another, but your strength is found in Him who cares for you no matter what is happening in your life. (See Psalm 55:22, Matthew 6:25 and 1 Peter 5:7)

You can do all things through Him who loves you. (Philippians 4:13)  You can encourage others because you know “ . . . in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)  “If He (God) is for you, then no one and nothing can be against you.” (Romans 8:31)

Prayer:  Lord, help me and my fellow Christians to find ways to comfort one another.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

May we Thy precepts, Lord, fulfill And do on earth our Father’s will

As angels do above; Still walk in Christ the living way,

With all Thy children and obey The law of Christian love.

So may we join Thy name to bless, Thy grace adore,

Thy pow’r confess, From sin and strife to flee.

One is our calling, one our name, The end of all our hopes the same,

A crown of life with Thee.

Spirit of life, of love and peace, Unite our hearts, our joy increase,

Thy gracious help supply.  To each of us the blessing give

In Christian fellowship to live, In joyful hope to die.

(LSB 698)