We have spent a few days in Isaiah 40 looking at God’s comfort, at the promise of a way being made in our wilderness, at the revelation of the power of the Promise-Giver and at our role to accept and hope in the Lord. It doesn’t end with acceptance though. There is one last step, and it is found in a passage of Scripture in the New Testament that I just adore. It comes in the beginning of 2Corinthians:
“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, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.” [3-5]
The last step of comfort is sharing.
I once worked in an office that had a small kitchen, containing only a tiny sink and fridge. On the side of the sink was the most hideous sponge. It was there when I started work and it was there when I quit years later, and for all I know it is still there. Every morning I yearned to just throw it away. It was brown and obnoxious. I didn’t throw it away though because every time I saw it, I remembered the phrase, “Sit, soak, and sour.” and I remembered that God’s plan for our lives always includes being “squeezed out” for others.
Whatever God brings into our lives is not meant solely for us; it is meant ultimately for others too. I receive forgiveness, I forgive. I am loved, I love. I am given peace, I become a peacemaker. I receive comfort, I give comfort.
God says comfort my people. God gives the promise of the way in the wilderness and the glory of the Lord. God reveals Himself as the true promise-keeper. When I accept that and place my hope in the Lord, my strength is renewed, I soar, I run, I walk … and I share.
What has God brought to you? What promises were given? What revelation received? Have you been renewed? Are you sharing? Don’t just soak and get sour, squeeze yourself out for His people.
