COMFORT
17th Dec 2025
We are reading Zechariah in our daily Bible readings at the moment, and in Chapter 1:13 it says, “So the Lord spoke kind and comforting words to the angel who talked with me.”
At this time of year, we remember loved ones who have left us and been promoted to glory, and God wants to speak kind and comforting words into our hearts. Paul makes a powerful statement when writing to the Corinthians, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.”
I will never forget talking to a lady in our church whose husband had just passed away. We were visiting her, and she seemed so at peace, radiating a supernatural joy. We expressed our surprise when she said, “Over many years, I have prayed for people to be set free from a spirit of grief following losing a loved one, and seen God do wonderful things in their lives. I am now taking my own medicine and proving that it really works.”
Isaiah 53:4 declares, “Surely he took our griefs and carried our sorrows.” Paul adds his own declaration, “We do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope.” He then clearly states what happens when we die and when Jesus comes back, and concludes with, “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
We have said goodbye to a number of friends this year, some after a long and fruitful life, others in the prime of life. We miss them, and they are irreplaceable; however, as believers, we look forward to the great reunion in the presence of Jesus.
1 Corinthians 15:19 says, “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.”
CeCe Winans has a wonderful song “Comforter” which I find powerful, comforting and strength-building. Click on “Comforter” and listen.
by Charles Sibthorpe
