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Isn’t it amazing how things that seem so little now seem so overwhelming when you go through it?  It’s crazy how much the trial, or joy, changes depending on your perspective.  As you mature, getting to look back and both praise God for His faithfulness and groan inwardly at your own foolishness seems to be a constant.

In my infinite maturity as a 22-year-old, even I can look back and see the challenges, sins, and struggles that were such a stronghold lose their grip as the Spirit of God works in my life through His word, and the care and wisdom of others.

This week at camp, I had the opportunity to watch teens work through big decisions in their lives that I once had to face.  Problems that seem so small and like such distant memories are brought to the surface.  From discerning your future plans, to working through living genuinely and honestly rather than putting on a mask, to discerning which friends you will allow to be an influence in your life.  Teens at different ages and stages are working through towering decisions, and they are seeking to walk in wisdom and faith through them.  Sometimes these decisions are joyful and hopeful, and we get to celebrate alongside the younger generation.  Other times, we grieve as we watch them make mistakes easily avoided or watch them struggle to take the next step.  Still other times, we grieve with them as they endure hardships that are like the pains and losses that we ourselves have faced.

In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul says:

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

Notice the path that Paul is laying out here:  God is a comforter who is always with us through trials, and as He grows and equips us, we then are able to be comforters to others who are facing trials.  We do not bring this comfort on the backs of our own pride or success; instead, we simply share with them the comfort, peace, and love that God shared with us. 

So, the challenge is simple: who can you come alongside and comfort?  Who can you share the love and peace of God with?  Who can you rejoice with, warn, or grieve alongside?

Then conversely, who can you look to for guidance or help.  God puts people into your life for a reason, but they cannot pour in until you open yourself up.  Who can you reach out to and share your burdens with?

Serving together,

Tyler B