"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT 2 THINGS THAT ABOUND IN OUR LIVES"
2nd Cor 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
1. Paul tells us what these 2 things are in verse 5. Sufferings, and consolation. These both abound in our lives.
2. Let's look at these words more closely.
(1) Sufferings. Also translated, affliction, misfortune, calamity, evil. Speaking of the afflictions which Christians must undergo in behalf of the same cause which Christ patiently endured. It's an inward state, an affliction, passion, an enduring, undergoing
suffering
(2) Consolation. Or exhortation, that is a calling near, encouragement, solace, what which affords comfort or refreshment
3. Here's how this reads in the NLT 1st Cor 1:5 You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ.
4. Putting this into application, and viewing it as a promise from God, it's telling us that we can be sure of two things. The more we suffer for Christ, and the sake of Christ, and the things of Christ, the more God will faithfully shower us with His comfort through Christ. These two things are very real in the lives of those who know and serve the Lord.
5. So, if you are suffering, then please look for and ask for, and expect the Lord to comfort You.
He will do it. Be patient, wait on the Lord, and He will bring you through, and He will strengthen You
A prayer:
Father, Your Son suffered more then we can imagine. And, You know what we go through for His sake. Thank You for what Jesus did for us on the cross, dying for our sins, so that we could be saved, and thank You for your promise to comfort us. We pray right now for those we know who are suffering, that You would pour Your comfort into their lives. And, if by some chance, the person reading these words is suffering, we pray that You would pour your comfort into them this very day.
In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier.
