The Life Of Comfort

A Piece of Chocolate Week 19, Jan.23,2008 The Life of Comfort I love things that involve soft, warm comforts. For instance, my favorite blanket, bathrobe, heated car seats in the winter, comfort foods, and hot chocolate. God is so good to us by providing comforts. He knew we would need comfort. And by the way, that is one of his many names! Comforter. In good times the comfort is welcomed as a treat and during the hard times it’s seen as a necessity. Whether it’s a bubble bath with some lit candles or a much needed hug, our Comforter is there to provide us with exactly what we need. As I was reading in Matthew chapter 5:3-10, I realized that the Beatitudes all had to do with comfort! Let’s take a look at them. Matthew 5:3-10: God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. This is like a shopping list for comfort! Obviously, the kind of comfort talked about isn’t just a temporary fix to feel better, it’s a recipe for how to live. Now that’s great comfort food. I’ve highlighted some of the ingredients and their outcomes. If you ask many people what a “plush and comfortable life” for them would include they might say, “oh, a house with beach front property, a Lexus paid off, a massage once a week by Fernando, and a maid who cooks and cleans”. Not many people would say, “oh, to be persecuted for doing right, being humble so I can inherit the earth, and let’s not forget, working for peace to be called a child of God”. Honestly, if someone said that to me I would think that they’re a few fries short of a happy meal…you know what I mean? Here’s the thing- living a life of comfort with the Comforter in it, is much more rewarding than having Fernando do whatever. I can honestly say that if I had to choose, I’d rather walk with the King than have any car. Would you? Be honest with yourself, it’s ok. It’s much harder for some to believe in Someone that you can’t see, verses putting a key in the ignition to start a car that you can sit in. However, if you choose Jesus, He will change the motivation of your life from driving an infinity to being like-minded for eternity. Trust me, I know from experience. Dare to live a life based on the Comforters guidelines instead of the world’s rules…it’s worth every penny. If you want to become a Christian, here’s how! It’s as simple as knowing you’re ABC’s. 1. Admit that you are a sinner 2. Believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross for your sins and rose again on the third day. 3. Confess with your mouth that you need him to come into your heart. Your prayer doesn’t have to be fancy at all! Here’s an example: Jesus, I know that I’m not perfect but you are. I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and rose again on the third day. Lord, please forgive me for all the wrong I’ve ever done and come live in my heart. Thank you Lord. Amen. Now, if you just prayed that prayer for the first time, I want you to email me and tell a friend. And congratulations! In Him, Dede