Comfort

What speaks comfort to you? Is it a:

• Cuppa - cocoa or coffee?
• Quilt made by someone who loves you?
• Down pillow reminiscent of your favorite plush toy as a child?
• Comfortable home waiting for you at the end of a workday?
• Meal with your favorite foods, with no regards to calories?
• Special person?
• Family in harmony?
• Sense of safety when "all the chickies are in the nest"? 

     This photo shows a beautiful sunrise a few Fridays ago when God blessed our Arizona skies with soft clouds and amazing colors. It was as if he threw a multi-hued blanket over our whole valley. A friend who teaches high school shared this photo--her reward for having to get up early for work. By the time I got up, I missed the colors but saw the blanket of clouds.

                                                                        (Photo courtesy Jamie McQueen)

     How does God comfort?

• Through his understanding and care 

In spite of the huge issues going on in the world today, God lets me come to him with my problems. My concerns are valid to him, no matter how small.

• Through the avenue of prayer 

I can pray anytime, anywhere, any place. I can pray out loud, in my head, formally, or informally. The lines of communication are always open.

• Through my reading of the Bible

God's letter of love is there for me to absorb. (See August 4th post) Everything I experience is in that book! It takes a little delving on my part to find answers, but they're available.

• Through the Holy Spirit 

The Spirit is a little mysterious and somewhat puzzling. We don't talk about him as much as we talk about God or Jesus, but the Holy Spirit comforts, counsels, and empowers. I'll save the theological discussion for the preachers and scholars, but I know he exists.

When you need comforting, and who doesn't in today's world, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with a feeling of peace. Life may continue to be turbulent, but you will experience inner calm that comes only from God.

What is the biggest problem causing you stress right now? Imagine a soft, fluffy cloud blanket from God caressing your shoulders.

God blankets you with his love and strength to walk through whatever is in store.

View from the McQueen Backyard