Read Message

bigmike

DAILY DEVOTION
A Source of Comfort
Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts; Colossians 4:8
There are some things in God's work for which He gives people special gifts and talents. Some of us would be very poor at singing a solo in church, but there are other things we can do well. Some would be unequipped to coordinate nursery schedules, but are very good at teaching. But while there are some areas of service not every Christian is gifted in, there are other areas that all of us are supposed to do. These are not a matter of having a talent, but a matter of having a heart of compassion and concern and a willingness to follow the example of Jesus. One of these areas is being a comfort and help to others. "And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things" (Mark 6:34).
The early church faced intense opposition and persecution. Many of the members had come from other nations to Jerusalem for the feast days, and had no way to earn a living. Others no doubt lost their jobs because of their faith in Jesus. In the face of that trouble, there were people in the church who stepped up to help. One man even got a new name because he did so much for others. "And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus" (Acts 4:36). There are no shortage of people to whom we can be a source of blessing and comfort. At home, at work, at church or in our neighborhood, there are countless people wishing someone would notice their need for encouragement. By being a comfort to them, you are having a massive impact on their lives. It may not seem like a large thing to some, but being a comforter is truly being like Jesus.
Spirit-filled Christians should be quick to provide comfort and hope to others who are in distress.
___

Date: