THE GOD WHO IS GOOD
2 CORINTHIANS 1:2-4 NKJV
2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
Paul starts this letter on a good note. This is a standard practice for Paul, but his words to the church at Corinth are particularly positive. And keep in mind this church had real issues.
But Paul does not start with the issues. He starts with grace and peace. This is more than just a Christian salutation. There is strength in these words.
Grace is the favor and power of God on our behalf. We are saved by grace. Paul was later reminded that God’s grace was sufficient to get him through any trouble. With God’s grace and favor on our lives, we are well-equipped to handle whatever comes our way.
And don’t forget peace. The kind of peace that resides in the spirit of believers and brings a sense of well-being and calm independent of the current environment. Paul often spoke grace and peace to the believers in his letters. It’s a wonderful reminder of what kind of kingdom we are part of. What kind of family we belong to.
Then Paul calls God the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. The word comfort is more than a hug or a pat on the back. This Greek word is paraklesis and has the meaning of an exhortation, admonition, or encouragement for the purpose of strengthening and establishing the believer in the faith.
This comfort is a major help that leaves us better and stronger. Couple that with the mercies of God, and we have a powerful combination. Mercies are the compassion that God shows for the suffering of His children. That is such a lovely picture. God has compassion for us when we are suffering and then strengthens us.
And the strength that comes from God enables us to not only deal with our situation but to be able to offer encouragement and strength to others as they suffer.
APPLICATION:
I have seen this mercy and comfort in my own life. With a rocky start to our marriage and some difficulties in the early years, Joy and I have been able to offer comfort to those who have marital struggles. God comforted us, and now we are able to comfort others.
In dealing with sickness and challenges with children, God has comforted us. Now we can comfort those battling sickness or challenged by a problem with the kids or grandkids.
But please notice that God comforts us in all our tribulations. Paul does not say that God sent the tribulation. This in itself is comforting. God is present with grace, peace, mercy, and comfort whenever we are facing difficult times. Knowing how good He is and that He is there for us when we suffer through hard times means He is the constant light at the end of the tunnel.
PRAYER:
Lord, I am so glad that Your grace, peace, mercy, and comfort are available for me. I do not have to beg; I only have to believe.