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Comforted and Comforting

Read: Psalm 91

He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. (v. 4)

Psalm 91 is such a beautiful reminder of God’s attentive care for us. We can calmly abide in his shadow (v. 1), rely on his deliverance (v. 7), and remember that his angels are guarding us (v. 11). In addition, he places special people in our lives who are also a source of refuge.

I have found that many of the great listeners in my life are people who have gone through a personal trial, and they have experienced for themselves the great depth of comfort only God can provide. I believe that God has equipped them to share comfort and express compassion to those they come in contact with as an extension of the comfort they themselves received. These people are often the ones I hold in the highest regard. I am willing to trust them with my hurts and uncertainties.

Perhaps there is someone like this in your life—someone who listens well, and blesses you as a result. Thank them and pray for God to give them stamina in the work he does through them. Or, perhaps you have experienced God’s comfort in a way that you can pass on to someone else. Keep your eyes and ears open to God’s call for you to extend comfort to another (2 Cor 1:3-4). “When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble” (Ps. 91:15). —Joy Petroelje

As you pray, praise God for his comfort, and the special people in your life.

About the Author

Joy Petroelje is the director of a nonprofit human services organization. She and her husband Steve have three sons and live near Grand Rapids, Michigan. In addition to family time and her work in nonprofit administration, Joy enjoys reading, writing, and running.

This entry is part 12 of 15 in the series Spiritual Endurance