Finding Eternal Comfort in God

During times of extreme difficulty—terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and pandemics—we often ask big questions: “How could this happen?” “Will any good come from this?” “Will we ever find relief?”

David, described in the Bible as a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22), never shied away from questioning God during times of crisis. Perhaps his most famous questions can be found at the beginning of one of his psalms of lament: “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1). How could David question God so boldly? We might think David’s questions shine a light on his lack of faith. But we’d be wrong. In fact, it’s the very opposite. David’s questions grew out of his deep love for and faith in God. David can’t make sense of his situation—so he asks God, “How can this be? And where are you?” Likewise, when you find yourself questioning God, take comfort that we, like David, can question God in faith.

We have another source of comfort. As Christians, we have deep reassurance even when life’s problems seem impossible to overcome. The reason? We know that—even if we don’t see relief on this side of heaven—we will see wholeness and healing in heaven. The vision of Revelation 21:4 is beautiful: “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Returning to David—we find that he has something to say about eternity too. In what is probably the most well-known psalm, David speaks of God’s continual care. God is pictured as a shepherd who provides food, rest, guidance, and protection from enemies, and even from fear. We might expect the following words to be David’s grand finale: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life” (Psalm 23:6, KJV). What could be better? David continues and powerfully answers that question: “I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” Though David’s life will end, God’s care for him will never end.

The same is true for us. Jesus promised to prepare a place for us in the house of the Lord (see John 14:2-3), and God’s care for us there is eternal.

Like David, you may find yourself in the midst of struggle and lament today. We pray that the following devotions will help you find comfort as you refresh, refocus, and renew in God’s Word.

• Through Tears, Comfort. Christ—in his victory over sin and death—provides the ultimate comfort for us.

• Our Living Hope. No matter how many difficulties and trials we face, we know that in Christ we have a living hope.

• Suffering Versus Glory. When we consider the glory that awaits us, we find comfort during our times of suffering.

• More Than a Platitude. God’s promise to “work all things for good” includes our most difficult times; this truth gives us deep comfort.