The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and divine comfort for Christians. It is a statute book, a directory, and a source of true and solid comfort for those who believe in God’s promises. In Isaiah 66:13, we see a beautiful picture of God’s comfort likened to a mother’s love.
Isaiah 66:13 “As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” (ESV)
In this article, we will explore the divine source, peculiar manner, and appointed place of Christian comfort, drawing insights from the analogy of a mother’s comfort.
The Divine Source of Comfort
The speaker in Isaiah 66:13 is the Lord Himself, who alone can comfort His people. He is the “God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3) and the source of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). The comfort that comes from God is distinguished in several ways.
- Superior Excellency: God’s comfort is perfect and without any mixture of impurity. It is solid and suitable to the state and circumstances of the believer, meeting all their needs and desires.
- Sufficiency: God’s comfort is enough to satisfy the deepest longings of the heart and banish all fears and anxieties. It is abundant and never runs dry (Ephesians 3:20).
- Certainty: God’s comfort is based on His unchanging word. When He says, “I will comfort you,” it is a declaration that cannot be altered or forgotten. His promises are more firm and stable than the everlasting hills.
- Perpetuity: God’s comfort is not limited to a specific time or place. He comforts His children in all situations, at all times, and in every changing scene of life. He is with them from youth to old age, through afflictions and even in the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23:4; Isaiah 43:2; Revelation 7:17).
The Peculiar Manner of Divine Comfort
God’s comfort is likened to a mother’s comfort in Isaiah 66:13, which suggests a unique and special way in which God comforts His people.
- Affection of a Mother: God’s comfort is expressed with the tender affection of a mother. A mother’s love is known for its selflessness, gentleness, and unwavering devotion to her child. It overflows all boundaries and surpasses all other human affections. Yet, God’s love for His children is even greater, as He loves them with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3) and asks, “Can a woman forget her sucking child? Yet I will not forget you” (Isaiah 49:15).
- Protection of a Mother: Just as a mother protects her child from harm, God protects His children from all dangers and adversities. He promises to be with them in the midst of trials and challenges, providing them with strength and courage to overcome (Isaiah 43:2; Romans 8:31).
- Guidance of a Mother: Like a mother who gently leads her child, God guides His children with wisdom and discernment. He shows them the right path to take and provides them with His word as a lamp to their feet and a light to their path (Psalm 119:105).
- Comfort in Affliction: A mother’s comfort is especially tender in times of sorrow and distress. She soothes her child’s pain, wipes away their tears, and provides a safe haven in the midst of difficulties. Similarly, God comforts His children in their afflictions, providing them with His presence and peace that surpasses all understanding (2 Corinthians 1:4; Philippians 4: 7). Just as a mother’s comforting touch brings solace to her child, God’s comforting presence brings healing and strength to His children.
A Mother’s Love and God’s Comfort: Beacons of Hope in Times of Sorrow
In times of sorrow, when the weight of grief feels unbearable, a mother’s love can be a beacon of hope. She offers words of encouragement, listens with empathy, and holds her child close, providing a sense of security. In the same way, God, as a loving Father, offers comfort to His children.
He understands their pain and sorrow, and He is there to provide solace and support. The Bible tells us that God is the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3). He is always present, ready to extend His loving arms and offer comfort to those who seek Him.
2 Corinthians 1:3 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort.” (ESV)
Moreover, a mother’s comfort extends beyond just comforting words. She takes practical steps to care for her child’s needs, providing food, shelter, and warmth. She takes action to alleviate her child’s suffering. In the same way, God not only offers comforting words, but He also takes action to comfort His children.
He provides for their needs, guides them through difficult situations, and gives them the strength to endure. He is a constant source of comfort and support, always ready to extend His grace and mercy.
Unwavering Love: A Mother’s and God’s Promise
In times of distress, a mother’s love is unwavering. She does not abandon her child, but rather stands by their side, providing unwavering support. Her presence is a source of comfort and reassurance. Similarly, God’s presence in our lives is unwavering.
He promises to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He walks with us through the valleys of life, providing us with His peace and comfort even in the darkest of times. His love is constant and unchanging, a rock upon which we can always rely.
As we navigate the ups and downs of life, it can be easy to feel lost and alone. But God’s promise to never leave us nor forsake us is a powerful reminder that we are never truly alone. His presence is a constant source of comfort and strength, guiding us through even the toughest of challenges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a mother’s comfort is a precious gift, providing solace, strength, and reassurance in times of sorrow and distress. In the same way, God’s comfort is tender and compassionate, surpassing all understanding.
He is always present to offer His love, grace, and mercy to His children, providing them with the comfort they need to navigate through life’s challenges. Let us find comfort in the loving embrace of our heavenly Father, who is our ultimate source of comfort and refuge.
