Summary: When a friend of yours needs comforting, don’t draw back with uncertainty, thinking you haven’t the experience or the right words to say. Comforting and encouraging our brothers and sisters in the Lord is not an assignment reserved only for some “expert” or salaried staff person. It is the duty and privilege of everyone who knows, loves, and follows Jesus Christ. The longer I live, the more grateful I am for the efforts people have made to comfort me during my prolonged struggle with lung cancer. How could I ever forget those who have reached out to me, when from their standpoint, comforting me was the last thing they wanted to do that day? Those friends will always be dear to me because they did reach out. They weren’t afraid of making a “mistake.” Some of them had deep, insightful things to say and responded with thoughtful actions. I love them! When Jesus comforted His dear friend Martha after her brother Lazarus had died, Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life,” John 11:25. What a rock-solid promise from the lips of our Lord and Savior. Again, Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life,” [John 11:25]. Who do you know who needs to hear it? Go and comfort them. This is Luis Palau.
