HOW GOD COMFORTS ME
by Christine Wyrtzen
I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live. Psalm 116:1-2
Every day, ever growing brokenness is evident upon fallen earth. Cancer diagnoses are made, car crash fatalities occur, angry words are spoken and parents divorce. Terrorist cells multiply and wreak their havoc upon innocent people. Many were kept awake last night by the sound of their own crying. Comfort was needed. Comfort was sought. Prayers for God’s presence were whispered through tears.
How does God comfort me when I need comfort? He reveals Himself in scripture as a parental presence. He says that he hovers over me, as a mother hovers over the young in her nest. He dries tears as well as shares tears over the things which hurt me. He sings over me as a mother or father sings a lullaby over their young child. He quiets me with His love when I’m beside myself. He often sends a dream that will convey a specific message of comfort. He will send someone with human arms to enfold me and give me a taste of what it’s like to be hugged by God. Their real arms, real tears, and real prayers help me experience God’s love firsthand.
Each nurturing way comes by way of a scriptural promise. The Spirit of God whispers it to that place inside where He resides; my spirit. “I’m here. Don’t be afraid.” “I’ll never leave you.” “You can trust me.” “Come to me, lay down your burden, and find the rest you’re seeking.”
King David spoke of living in the shelter of God’s embrace. I don’t believe he spoke allegorically here. Beneath God’s wings is a real place where songs are sung and whispers of reassurances are heard. The storm is outside the embrace; warmth and solace inside. As bad as life can get, I am never alone. More than a decade ago, I traded the ‘inspirational idea’ of God’s comfort for experiential reality. One fed my intellect; the other feeds my heart. God’s comfort was meant to be experienced.
Thank you for every time I have felt Your presence. Thank you for making me alive to Your promises. I know Your voice and gives me strength. Amen
For more from Christine Wyrtzen and Jaime Wyrtzen Lauze, please visit www.daughtersofpromise.org
Originally published Tuesday, 26 January 2021.
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