Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Take it from one who's been there

I am becoming more and more convinced that what we're really looking for, perhaps the one thing that really helps us when we are grieving, hurting or struggling, is to know that someone has been there, experienced that, and has come out on the other side in one piece.

Words of comfort always seem to feel hollow when they come from someone who, by our estimation, we don't believe truly feels our pain. Yet somehow they can soothe the soul when they come from the one who has been there.

If I lose my wife, I'm seeking out those who have lost their spouse for comfort and support. If one loses a child, they seek out others who have lost children. If someone has relationship issues, they look for help to those who have experienced similar.

Nothing replaces experience.

Perhaps that's why it couldn't be done any other way. The Son simply had to become The Human.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. (2 Cor. 1:3-4)

7 comments:

Karen said...

Why yes, you are absolutely right. And taking your comments a little further and applying them to the messed up parts of our lives (dare I call them *sins*?), I think that is why Christ-centered 12-step programs like Celebrate Recovery are so successful. People who in addition to sharing similar struggles, love you with the same love of Christ.... love you enough to truly care whether you become free from whatever has you in bondage.

That whole "comforting others with the comfort we've been given" takes on a whole new meaning. It is cool.

Terry Rush said...

You hit the target. Jesus understands everything about us because he's been there.

Hebrews 2:14-18 He understands us.
II Cor. 5:21 He understands the
burden of sin.

preacherman said...

Wonderful advice and words that we all need to take to heart as believers. I apprecaite you dealing with this extremly difficult topic Shane. I appreciate the wisdom that you share with us on a daily basis. I hope you and your family are doing well. You and your ministry are always in my thoughts and prayers and know that God Almighty has great plans for your life. I hope you have a blessed day today.

Franklin Wood said...

Amen.

Brenda said...

When we talk to friends it's always nice to be able to comfort someone, but from the other side, it's always nice to HEAR those words "I've been there. I know what you are going through. I am living proof that you too will get through this....and I'll stand beside you." Those are some of the most powerful words spoken when a person feels so broken.

Avalon sang a song "You were there" and it speaks to this very thing about God.

He's still always there with us, but in our earthly moments, it's nice to see the success of someone and realize that one day, that could be us too.

I know I struggle wonding if I'm the only one at times....and thankfully....I'm not alone.

Todd Stoves said...

Perhaps this topic is one answer to "why do bad things happen to good people?"...maybe, just maybe you are being groomed to be Jesus to someone down the road who needs Him at just the right time...

Anonymous said...

I like that.