For Those Searching for Comfort

Comfort, although elusive at times, can be found even in the midst of the worst trouble and trial for the Believer. Isaiah 40 portrays the beauty and comfort that comes from God’s love and power. To obtain this comfort, though, requires an understanding of God and His character.

God’s understanding and desire to meet us in our mourning is so vast, our brains cannot comprehend it. Isaiah 40:27-29 says,

“O Jacob, how can you say the LORD does not see your troubles? O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.”

In the midst of the trial, it’s easy to look at God and think He could never understand or want what’s best for us. If we experience true trauma, it’s hard to see that the circumstance could ever be deemed good. But one thing is for certain: God understands our brokenness. He understands our mourning. He meets us in the valleys and dark places to offer us comfort and strength. When we are struck down and weak, He gives strength to the powerless.

There’s a beautiful image earlier in Isaiah 40 of the Good Shepherd. It says in verse 11, “He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young.” You and I are the sheep. He is the Shepherd. And when we are lost, lonely, or broken, He carries us. He holds us close to His heart and leads us. This compassionate Father sees our burdens and offers comfort. There’s nothing like your Creator wrapping you up in His arms. The same arms that bought freedom for you on that cross can wrap you up in comfort in this moment. Lean in to the Shepherd who carries us and holds us close to His heart in comfort and protection.

Understanding God is the Creator helps us to remember He is all-knowing. He is in control. The future of our lives that is causing us distress and discomfort is held in His hands. If He’s good like He says He is, we can trust no matter the ugly circumstances we may be facing, He will prevail in His love. We will be with Him in paradise. Rest in that. Don’t underestimate the work God can do in your life and in your circumstance.

Lastly, Isaiah 40:31 ends with this: “But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Resting and trusting in the Lord means you hope and expect His strength to provide what you need in this trial. Do you truly believe God has your best interest at heart and He loves you more than anyone in the world ever could? Do believe all of His plans and purposes are good and right? Can you confidently say He controls every aspect of life- including yours? Cling to your faith knowing God is who He says He is. He will bring comfort if you seek it. He will grow your faith if you desire it to be grown. The Great Comforter has His arms extended, ready to carry you close to His heart. Will you let Him? Will you trust His security is good and enough?