[God] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 2 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV)
If we are to be effective in speaking for God, we must not only do what God has said but we must tell others what God has said. This is where all fruitful ministries begin. Your ministry to others will be an overflow of your own walk with God. In other words, you cannot give to others what you yourself have not received.
The word of God must come to you before it can come through you. That’s why Paul says: “God comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God” (1:4). As you walk with God and take him at his Word, as you experience his comfort in your own difficulties, then you will be equipped to comfort others.
This is a great incentive for living in the Word of God. Grow in your walk with God, not only for his glory and your own good, but also for the good of others. Where is the good in being a Christian whose own experience is so shallow that you have little or nothing to offer to others?
Is your own experience with God deep enough to have something of substance to offer others? Or is it so shallow that you have little to offer?
