Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort. – 2 Corinthians 1:3
My mother passed away suddenly, and it seemed impossible to grasp that one day she was working at the office with me, and the next day she was gone. It took time to wrap my mind around the realization that I would never hear her laugh again on this earth, never share a problem or joy with her again, never clean the house once more side by side.
Grief is a universal reality. Whatever the cause—the death of a loved one, acute illness, an accident, a wayward child, or some other traumatic circumstance—grief is experienced to some degree by every person who lives. We all will have sorrows, but as Christians we can reach out to a never‑failing source of comfort.
The Apostle Paul’s words in our focus verse point us to the one absolutely reliable, forever available source of comfort. Notice that the words “all comfort” are totally inclusive. They admit no limitations or exceptions. Regardless of the need, God comforts. In the next verse, Paul goes on to reinforce that thought by saying, “Who comforteth us in all our tribulation.” Again, that word “all” draws a circle around our personal situation. Any and every tribulation is His concern. Whatever our grief, whatever hard place we are going through, God will be there for us.
God’s comfort is far more than a touching verse on a gold‑embossed sympathy card. It is comfort that reaches right down through the waves of anguish and pain to the very depths of our spirits, and holds us close to Him. He promises, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). How is that blessing found? By reaching out to Him, and then accepting the comfort He offers.
That comfort may come through the verse of a hymn or a Scripture text. Perhaps a friend will be led to say just the words which minister to our bruised and aching hearts. It may be that the care and compassion of God on a previous occasion will come to mind. If, in simple faith, we accept these evidences of the comfort of God, we will indeed be comforted. However, if we continue to focus on our despair and grief, we make it difficult for any ray of consolation to penetrate our souls.
Unquestionably, even individuals with faith in God go through a grieving process. Shock, bewilderment, questions, and sorrow are natural reactions when we face loss, and God’s love does not insulate us from the feelings that come when we are called to endure such experiences. But if we choose to accept the comfort He promises, then His everlasting arms will carry us through.