Comfort #5—Comforting Words

Remember the promise to your servant, in which you made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, that your word has preserved me. … I have remembered your rules of old, O Eternal, and they comfort me. Psalm 119:49–52

No matter what anyone says, or how painful the accusation, or untrue the charge, we can be comfortable. While arrogant, ungodly people may utterly deride us, we can remain true to God’s promises and commands, because God’s promises and commands have proved reliable to us. When we are under personal attack, placating the attacker, even if it means disobeying God’s rules for life, might seem appealing. But when we pause to remember how reliable his promises and commands have been in making our lives truly happy, we can relax and watch hopefully for how beneficial they will continue to be, even in the midst of adversity. The Lord’s words to us comfort not only because they serve us well in the real world, but also because they keep us connected to God. Two examples: “The one who keeps my commandments,” says Jesus, “will be loved by my Father.” And “If you will diligently obey me, then you shall be my treasured possession, … a holy nation.” So if we thrill at the prospect of being valued by God, then remembering his commands will give us comfort—the strength to persevere—through every interpersonal storm; for aligning ourselves with God’s words will anchor us to the one who is committed to do his best for us.

Lord Jesus, you promised me that if I love you I will keep your commands. Help me to remember how gloriously good you are, so my love for you will overcome my fear of my adversaries. Amen.