7 June - 2 Corinthians 1

We’re starting a new book today. We’re reading 2 Corinthians chapter 1. Below are a couple thoughts:

1. Paul starts by praising God for being the one who comforts us. Which sounds nice but remember how much Paul has gone through; beaten multiple times, ship wrecked, abandoned by his peers etc. Paul said God comforted him during those tough times in order to prepare him to comfort others when they were hurting. 
2. Paul tells them following Jesus doesn't mean a life free from hardship. In fact, the opposite is sometimes true. However, he encourages them God will bring them comfort. 
3. He also told the church of Corinth that he intended to visit them before but was delayed.

Have you gone through some really tough times in life when you felt God was not around? Paul encourages us that God is always there comforting us. The cool thing is that when we go through difficult times it prepares us to help ease the pain of others when they’re hurting too. Ask God to help you trust him even in the bad times and show you how to help others around you who are hurting.