May 9

“Comfort, comfort My people,” says your God. — Isa 40:1 BSB

“Comfort” is such a sweet word. It carries a beautiful sound for those who are suffering. And most people face some kind of trouble. This message of comfort was first spoken to captives. Today, there are many kinds of captives—people taken away from home or trapped in sorrow. Many people are in bondage to grief, as almost every home has its share of sorrow. Many are held captive by difficult circumstances or poverty.

But here is God’s message: “Comfort my people.” Few words are more misunderstood than “comfort.” Many think it means merely offering sympathy, sitting with someone in their pain without lifting them up. But God’s comfort is different. He doesn’t just sit with us in our troubles; He comes to deliver us, to lead us out of our bondage, and to make us victorious over trials. Bible comfort always involves strength. No captivity is hopeless under the loving care of God. The stars shine even into the darkest dungeons, and there is no prison so deep that God’s message of comfort cannot reach it.