Comfort

Person lying on a beach - feet shown at the end of a chaise lounge with the ocean in the distance

We’re all drawn to comfort.

Everyone has a different definition of comfort.

My sons climb 14,000′ mountains – sometimes encompassing a 22-mile expedition in one day. That could be seen as pursuing discomfort. But they get comfort from the sense of accomplishment of having conquered that mountain.

My definition of comfort is different. I love to sit on a beach in the shade, watching waves gently lap on the shore while I read a fictional murder mystery.

Comfort is fleeting, whether it’s the joy of standing on top of a mountain or the relaxing feeling of reading on a beach.

But there is a source of comfort that lasts – a relationship with our Creator. That lasting comfort is not like sitting in a warm bath but rather knowing God has your best in mind whether hail stones are pelting you or you’re basking in 70-degree sunshine.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7


Paul Merrill writes here every first Friday.