I was a little slow entering the computer age, but it didn’t take long to see the potential. One benefit was learning how to use a Bible study program. I happened to be teaching a lesson on “comfort” which called for looking up examples in the Bible.

So I searched through the program for the word: “comfort.” In just a few seconds I had more than 60 verses. Sixty verses offering comfort only God can give. Next, I clicked print and received five full pages of scripture. That night at Bible study, each person was given a copy and asked to pick their favorite verse and tell how they received comfort from God.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4) Mary talked of her father dying and how hearing those words at the funeral reminded her of Dad’s loving protection and discipline.

I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him…” (Isaiah 57:18) John laughed when he read this verse and said, “God knows what kind of rascal I am and He still offers me healing and comfort!”

Two women spoke of Ruth 2:13: “May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my Lord. You have given me comfort and have spoken kindly to your servant — though I do not have the standing of one of your servant girls.” They spoke of receiving love and comfort from their church family during difficult times.

Greg became excited when he found this one. “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” (Psalm 119:50) He had been going through a painful marital separation and was looking for direction in his life. He found the comfort of God that night and eventually discovered the strength to begin putting his life back together.

Jennifer chose: “May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.” (Psalm 119:76) Her children had been difficult that day and she began to cry. Across the table someone quietly read another verse to her. “As a mother comforts her child, so I will comfort you…” (Isaiah 66:13)

You could feel God’s Holy Spirit in the room offering reassurance as God’s Word began to soothe troubled hearts and quiet frayed nerves. Tears of sorrow were replaced by sighs of relief as our class members experienced the compassion and the love of a God who never fails to offer comfort, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Comfort, God’s comfort, in abundance.

Have you lost a loved one? Are you worried over your children? Maybe you are experiencing marital difficulties? Have you lost a job? Facing medical problems? 

There are verses of comfort for you and it doesn’t take a computer to find them. Just open your Bible and begin to read. Before long, you will feel the power of God and the words of comfort will flood the very depths of your soul.

The lesson on comfort ended with a reminder from Isaiah: “Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.” (40:1)

May God bless you and provide the comfort you need. 

Rev. Larry Davies can be reached at larrydavies@sowingseedsoffaith.com