~ Comfort in Christ ~

God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble (PSALM 46:1).

I memorized this psalm years ago and it has been a comfort on many occasions. I especially remember one day.

I received a letter from my youngest son who was attending college. In it he voiced his hurt, disappointment and loneliness at the loss of a dear friend.

I went out to the garden to gather strawberries, but my thoughts were of my son. So many times I had reached out to meet his need. It seemed only yesterday that I had held him in my arms after a fall or extended a hand to steady the little feet as they took those first tottering steps. We worked over math assignments together. Whether the basketball game was a victory or a loss, I was there to encourage him. But today he was far away and I felt helpless.

I decided to write to him, tell him I loved him and was praying for him and remind him that God was his comfort. Often he would close his letters to me with a Bible verse, so with my letter I added Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength," and 1 Peter 5:7, "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
Friend, God is the God of all comfort. He wants to help you today. Call on Him; He is always near.

M. STUMBO

~ JANUARY ~

LORD God, my faith in You is not based in my senses or my intellect but in Your never-failing love, which saved my soul and promises me unspeakable joy. In Jesus name. Amen.

~ JANUARY 12 ~

Painful changes have entered my life, but You are my refuge. Open Your fortress, Father, and keep me safe in Your love. In Jesus name. Amen.