March 29
Scripture: 2 Cor 2:7
Source author: Don Richards
March 29
Real Comfort Now, however, it is time to forgive and comfort him. Otherwise he may be overcome by discouragement. —2 Corinthians 2:7
Our meeting at the boardwalk chapel was crowded, but I saw the tall man in mirrored sunglasses step in and sit down. Suddenly, he was on his feet. “I killed six men in Vietnam. Where does that put God and me?” I sat there frozen in place. What did this guy intend to do? We’d been taught not to engage with hecklers. But . . . he stood again, adding, “Hey, I’m talkin’ to you, preacher.” No one moved. Finally, I prayed, God, send someone to talk to him. God said, “How about you?” I cringed, but got up, walked back to the man, and started talking. He was a Vietnam vet with many problems. I went out with him, spoke of God’s forgiveness and comfort, and walked on the boardwalk with him. An hour later, he left me saying, “You’ve really helped me. I’ll never forget it.” Forgiveness and comfort: so many people need it. Is that what you tell them about?
When you comfort the hurting, God is pleased. — Don Richards —