Suffering and Comfort

 5For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. (2 Corinthians 1:5)

Thoughts: We share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, and we share abundantly in Christ's comfort.  The Greek translated as "abundantly"is clearer as "overflow."  This is not just saying we will have pain and blessing as Christ did.  It is saying that the comfort of Christ will overflow to us.  There will be tears- but He will wipe every tear away.  This is an important part of Christ's message.  The suffering here will not compare to the comfort and glory we will have in abundance with Him.  There is always hope in the worst of suffering for those who believe.  Do not let your disappointments in life and the sins of life change or degrade your faith.  For the sufferings do not compare to the comfort and glory.  The glorious healing is far better than the suffering just as the resurrection is greater than the cross. 

Prayer: Lord, give me hope and comfort.  Give me grace to have hope and perseverance in my sufferings as Christ did.