2 Corinthians 1:3-7, NKJV; NLT
When we think of the goodness of God and all He’s done for us, we can’t help but praise Him. In vv. 3-4 Paul blessed the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. We all have suffered various trials and needed comfort. Because God is the Father of mercies, He comforts us whenever troubles come. Why does He do this? It is because He is a God of purpose whose desire is to help those who trust and obey Him. He gives us comfort in all our tribulation so that we will be loving and kind to others, giving them the same kind of comfort He gave to us.
“For as the sufferings of Christ (2 Cor. 11:23-28) abound in us, so our consolation, or comfort, also abounds through Christ” (v.5). There will be times when Christians suffer various trials; James said, “count it all joy.” Every time children of God are betrayed, abused, or as a gospel song writer said: lied on, scorned, talked about, sho’s you born, the sufferings of Christ abound in us. Because we share in Christ’s pain through different trials, our consolation also abounds through Him.
Paul continued that even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer (v.6, NLT). We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us (v.7, NLT).
Clap your hands and give God glory!