Finding Comfort in God's Presence Amid Suffering
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone! Today, we embark on a new series focusing on the profound comfort that God provides, as described in Apostle Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. Paul begins by praising God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, as the source of all comfort. This is particularly relevant as we navigate the cold winter in Tasmania, where our thoughts naturally turn to comfort—whether it's warm clothing, cozy fires, or comfort food. However, the comfort Paul speaks of is far deeper and more significant than mere physical comfort.
Paul wrote to the Corinthians from a place of pain and suffering, and he knew that his audience was experiencing similar hardships. This series comes at a crucial time for many in our community who are going through their own trials. The comfort that God provides is not about making our lives easy or free from pain. Instead, it is about God being with us in our suffering, offering His presence and support.
The Greek word Paul uses for comfort is "parakaleo," which means to come alongside. This word is used both as a noun and a verb, indicating that comfort is something we can receive and also something we can offer to others. Another related term is "parakletos," which Jesus uses to describe the Holy Spirit in John 14. The Holy Spirit is our Advocate, someone who comes alongside us, especially in times of trouble.
This concept of the Holy Spirit as our Advocate is powerful. Just as an expert brings comfort in a legal or medical situation, the Holy Spirit brings comfort by being with us, knowing our struggles, and guiding us through them. Jesus promised that we would face trials and sorrows, but He also promised the Holy Spirit, who would never leave us.
John Mark Comer, in "Practicing the Way," outlines three unhealthy responses to pain: denial, detachment, and distraction. Instead, we are encouraged to bring our pain to God, allowing Him to use it for our transformation. This series will delve deeper into how we can experience God's comfort and how we can be a source of comfort to others.
As we move forward, let's consider what it means to be reintroduced to the Holy Spirit as our Advocate and Comforter. Let's turn to Him first in our times of suffering and be aware of His presence in our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. God's Comfort in Suffering: The comfort that God provides is not about making our lives easy or free from pain. Instead, it is about His presence with us in our suffering, offering support and understanding. This comfort is deeply rooted in the reality of our struggles and God's unwavering presence. [35:28]
2. The Meaning of Parakaleo: The Greek word "parakaleo" means to come alongside. It signifies both something we can receive and something we can offer to others. This dual nature of comfort highlights the importance of community and mutual support in our spiritual journey. [37:08]
3. The Holy Spirit as Parakletos: Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as "parakletos," our Advocate who never leaves us. This term, often used in a legal context, emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role in defending and guiding us through life's challenges, bringing immense comfort. [38:58]
4. Healthy Responses to Pain: John Mark Comer identifies three unhealthy responses to pain: denial, detachment, and distraction. Instead, we are encouraged to bring our pain to God, allowing Him to use it for our transformation. This approach can turn our suffering into a catalyst for spiritual growth. [48:25]
5. Reintroducing the Holy Spirit: Consider what it means to be reintroduced to the Holy Spirit as our Advocate and Comforter. Reflect on whether we turn to Him first in our times of suffering and how aware we are of His presence in our lives. This awareness can profoundly impact our experience of God's comfort. [50:42]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[30:25] - Introduction to the Series
[32:08] - The Concept of Comfort
[33:40] - Comfort Food and God's Comfort
[35:28] - God's Comfort in Suffering
[37:08] - The Meaning of Parakaleo
[38:58] - The Holy Spirit as Parakletos
[40:43] - The Advocate in Our Lives
[42:20] - Examples of Comfort in Expertise
[44:09] - Jesus' Promise of Trials and the Advocate
[46:08] - The Advocate in Our Deepest Valleys
[48:25] - Healthy Responses to Pain
[50:42] - Reintroducing the Holy Spirit
[52:00] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV): "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 receive from God."
2. John 14:16-17 (NIV): "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Paul identify as the source of all comfort in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4?
2. How does Paul describe the purpose of the comfort we receive from God in 2 Corinthians 1:4?
3. According to John 14:16-17, what role does Jesus say the Holy Spirit will play in the lives of believers?
4. In the sermon, what Greek word is used to describe comfort, and what does it mean? ([37:08])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does understanding God as the "Father of compassion and the God of all comfort" change the way we view our own suffering? ([35:28])
2. What does it mean for the Holy Spirit to be our "Advocate" or "Parakletos," and how does this role provide comfort in times of trouble? ([38:58])
3. John Mark Comer identifies three unhealthy responses to pain: denial, detachment, and distraction. Why might these responses be harmful, and how can bringing our pain to God transform us? ([48:25])
4. Reflect on the idea of being reintroduced to the Holy Spirit as our Advocate and Comforter. How might this awareness impact our daily lives and our approach to suffering? ([50:42])
#### Application Questions
1. Think about a recent time when you experienced pain or suffering. How did you seek comfort, and did you turn to God first? If not, what can you do differently next time? ([50:42])
2. The sermon mentioned that comfort is something we can both receive and offer to others. Can you think of someone in your life who needs comfort right now? How can you come alongside them in a meaningful way? ([37:08])
3. Jesus promised that we would face trials and sorrows but also promised the Holy Spirit as our Advocate. How can this promise change your perspective on the challenges you are currently facing? ([44:09])
4. John Mark Comer talks about bringing our pain to God for transformation. What specific steps can you take to bring your current struggles to God and allow Him to use them for your growth? ([48:25])
5. Reflect on the concept of the Holy Spirit as an expert who brings comfort. In what areas of your life do you need the guidance and expertise of the Holy Spirit right now? How can you invite Him into those areas? ([40:43])
6. The sermon emphasized the importance of being aware of the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives. What practices or habits can you develop to become more aware of His presence daily? ([50:42])
7. Consider the unhealthy responses to pain mentioned in the sermon. Which of these responses do you tend to default to, and what practical steps can you take to change this pattern and bring your pain to God instead? ([48:25])
Devotional
### Day 1: God's Presence in Our Suffering
The comfort that God provides is not about making our lives easy or free from pain. Instead, it is about His presence with us in our suffering, offering support and understanding. This comfort is deeply rooted in the reality of our struggles and God's unwavering presence. When we face hardships, it is easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed. However, God's comfort assures us that we are never alone. He is with us, walking alongside us through every trial and tribulation. This divine companionship transforms our suffering, providing a sense of peace and hope that transcends our circumstances.
God's comfort is not a promise of a pain-free life but a promise of His constant presence. In our darkest moments, He is there, offering His support and understanding. This profound comfort is a reminder that we are deeply loved and cared for by our Creator. As we navigate our own trials, let us remember that God's presence is our greatest source of comfort and strength. [35:28]
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (ESV): "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God."
Reflection: Think of a recent hardship you have faced. How did you experience God's presence during that time? How can you be more aware of His presence in your current struggles?
### Day 2: The Dual Nature of Parakaleo
The Greek word "parakaleo" means to come alongside. It signifies both something we can receive and something we can offer to others. This dual nature of comfort highlights the importance of community and mutual support in our spiritual journey. When we receive God's comfort, we are also called to extend that same comfort to those around us. This creates a cycle of support and encouragement within the community of believers.
The concept of "parakaleo" reminds us that we are not meant to walk this journey alone. We are called to be there for one another, offering support and comfort in times of need. As we receive God's comfort, let us also be mindful of those around us who may be struggling. By coming alongside them, we can share the comfort we have received and strengthen our community. [37:08]
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who may be going through a difficult time. How can you come alongside them and offer comfort and support today?
### Day 3: The Holy Spirit as Our Advocate
Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as "parakletos," our Advocate who never leaves us. This term, often used in a legal context, emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role in defending and guiding us through life's challenges, bringing immense comfort. The Holy Spirit is not just a passive presence but an active advocate who intercedes on our behalf, providing wisdom, guidance, and strength.
The Holy Spirit's role as our Advocate is a powerful reminder of God's commitment to us. In every situation, the Holy Spirit is there to support and guide us, ensuring that we are never alone. This divine advocacy provides a deep sense of comfort and assurance, knowing that we have a constant helper who is always on our side. [38:58]
John 14:16-17 (ESV): "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt the guidance of the Holy Spirit. How did it bring you comfort and direction? How can you be more attuned to the Holy Spirit's presence in your daily life?
### Day 4: Transforming Pain Through God's Comfort
John Mark Comer identifies three unhealthy responses to pain: denial, detachment, and distraction. Instead, we are encouraged to bring our pain to God, allowing Him to use it for our transformation. This approach can turn our suffering into a catalyst for spiritual growth. By facing our pain and bringing it to God, we open ourselves to His healing and transformative power.
God does not waste our pain. When we bring our struggles to Him, He can use them to shape and refine us, drawing us closer to Him. This process of transformation is not easy, but it is deeply rewarding. As we allow God to work in our lives, we can experience growth and maturity that would not be possible otherwise. [48:25]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Think about a current or past pain you have experienced. How can you bring this pain to God and allow Him to use it for your transformation? What steps can you take to face this pain with faith and openness?
### Day 5: Reintroducing the Holy Spirit
Consider what it means to be reintroduced to the Holy Spirit as our Advocate and Comforter. Reflect on whether we turn to Him first in our times of suffering and how aware we are of His presence in our lives. This awareness can profoundly impact our experience of God's comfort. The Holy Spirit is always with us, but we must be intentional in seeking His presence and guidance.
Reintroducing ourselves to the Holy Spirit involves cultivating a deeper relationship with Him. This means spending time in prayer, reading Scripture, and being attentive to His promptings. As we grow in our awareness of the Holy Spirit, we can experience a greater sense of comfort and support in our daily lives. [50:42]
Romans 8:26-27 (ESV): "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God."
Reflection: How often do you turn to the Holy Spirit in times of suffering? What practical steps can you take to become more aware of His presence and guidance in your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "Winter in Tasmania is all about our focus turns to comfort, does it not? Absolutely yeah, we pull out the warm gear... our houses are directed to comfort right? We stoke the fires, we get the wood fires going, we get the hot water bottles out, we get the nano rugs out, the heat pumps are pumping." [32:08] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Sometimes God does these things absolutely but this is not what this series is about and it's not what this passage in the Bible is about. There's another way that God is the source of all comfort." [34:30] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Maybe you're experiencing pain or some kind of suffering or a grief or a loss and you're going through it and you're going through it and you're going through it and maybe in this series you need to know that there's a God who cares, there's a God who knows and there's a God who loves you so much that He will come and sit in it with you, the God of all comfort." [35:28] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Jesus actually promises the opposite of an easy life. He promises it. He says that we will have trials and sorrows. But He also promises us the Paracletos, the Advocate, the One who comes alongside us in those sorrows and trials." [43:20] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When we go through trials and sorrows of our own, and when we're in relationship with Jesus, it's as if Jesus Himself is walking alongside us, hand in hand, arm in arm, right there beside us every step of the way." [45:20] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "Paul was writing to these Christians from the perspective of pain and suffering. He knew firsthand what pain and suffering looked like, he had been through it and he was in the middle of it and he was expecting more of it. But you know what he also knew who he was writing to, the church in Corinth had been going through it as well." [34:30] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "This word, parakaleo, literally means to come alongside, to call alongside. Isn't that a cool picture, just for a second, that our God, our Father God, is the source, is the starting point for all come-alongsideness?" [37:08] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I've experienced in our family several funerals over the past several years, and we've been blessed with incredible funeral directors. But it's been an amazing comfort in a time of grief, in a time of loss and pain. To be in the presence, to have in our presence, someone who's an expert in that area of life, who's an expert, who knows what we're facing, who knows the situation well, who knows the kind of feelings that we're having, who knows what's required, and can be there as our advocate, helping us in that situation." [40:43] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "John Mark Comer, in Practicing the Way, says that we have three typical responses to pain and suffering. And all three are unhealthy. He says we can, deny that it exists. We put on a happy face and pretend like nothing's wrong. And that works until it doesn't anymore. He says we can detach from it. We can, we can acknowledge that it's there, but we just choose not to feel anything about it." [48:25] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "What does it look like to be reintroduced to my advocate, the one who brings comfort, the one who reminds me of God's faithfulness, His faithfulness in the past, in the present, and in the future? And maybe you've known Him for many, many years, and maybe you've known Him as your provider and your joy. Maybe you've known Him as your healer, and maybe you've known Him as your strength. But what would it look like to be reintroduced to Him? As your comfort, your advocate?" [50:42] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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