Undeniable truths during times of trials

All praise to 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 just as the sufferings of Christ overflow to us, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are afflicted, 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 that we suffer. 2 Corinthians 1:3-6

From the text, Paul began by praising God, acknowledging who He is as the “Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort.” Paul saw Christ to be the center of one’s faith and true belief. He was the one sent by the Father. To have this kind of affirmation provided Paul the stability and the strength he needed so he could stand facing trials in life. This source of faith and belief is what made him grateful to God and not be bitter with life. God is aware of what we are going through in life. In the Old Testament, Job did not know or may not even know that God was aware of the pain and sufferings he was going through. “Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil. And he has maintained his integrity, even though you urged me to harm him without cause.” Satan replied to the Lord, “Skin for skin! A man will give up everything he has to save his life. But reach out and take away his health, and he will surely curse you to your face!” (Job 2:3-5). God is in no way surprise of what we are dealing with even before it touches us for it passed through Him. God is aware of everything and He is in control. God is after producing in every believer an image that reflects His character. God knows that after we have been through trials in life, we will come out strong so that we can serve others effectively. He comforts us during times of trials “so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” God wants us to realize that the more we empty ourselves of self-sufficiency, the more we turn to Him and rely on the resources He will provide.

Blessings,

Noel De Guzman

www.my-wbc.com