The Father of Mercies and the God of all Comfort

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Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so through Christ our comfort also overflows. 

2 Corinthians 1: 3-5

Isn't is beautiful that God not only re-purposes pain for our own, personal good, but that He also turns our darkest moments into a testament to His grace and glory? Each of us have stories of human or spiritual darkness and the overcoming power of Divine light that may be shared to give hope to others.

This has happened countless times in my own life, and I have overflowed with gratitude again and again as I've seen God use my past pain to bring peace and healing to others. Honesty can be frightening and the 'spiritual forces of evil' (Ephesians 6: 12) are undoubtedly grim, but there is great comfort to be found in the companionship of one who has struggled just as you have and yet has overcome through the power of the Spirit. That fact alone is, I think, reason enough to praise the Lord, regardless of the circumstances, and to share honestly and hopefully with each person that He places in your path.

I pray that He will grant each of you the courage and the wisdom to bring hope and light today.