For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. 6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer.
We promise in our wedding covenant vows that we will be side by side with our spouse “for better or for worse”, but when the worse comes, the steadfastness goes for many people. Most people do not know what to expect in the marriage and it affects the relationship. Paul told the Corinthians that being a covenant Christian like himself, Titus, and Timothy, meant sticking with the commitment for better or for worse. Like Peter in his letters to the churches, Paul is getting the church ready for persecution. The problems plaguing the church will set them up for failure when that day comes so Paul introduces this second letter with a keyword. Comfort.
Come to Cape Community Church tomorrow as we sit in the comfort of our heated church and padded chairs. That is not the comfort of which Paul speaks. The comfort for Paul and Christians everywhere is the hope that comes as a promise from God in Isaiah 40:1
Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.
Come and see that the Lord promises sufferings for following him and comfort in believing his promises that everything will be alright, for better or for worse.
Dear Lord, thank you that we are your bride and your steadfast love is there for better or for worse. Help us to believe that and be ready to suffer and be comforted. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church