Comfort

“Now tighten the belt on your waist like a man, and I shall ask you, and you inform Me!”—Job 38:3 NASB

A freed slave, Elizabeth Keckley became a dressmaker for Mary Lincoln. In this unique position, she shared many private moments with Mrs. Lincoln and her husband, Abraham.

One moment occurred in the summer of 1863 as America was mired in the tragic Civil War. As she fitted a dress on Mrs. Lincoln, the president walked into the room and threw himself upon a sofa “like a tired child.” He was a “complete picture of dejection.” He commented that the news was bad. “It is dark, dark everywhere.”

He then picked up a Bible. As he read, his countenance changed. The dejected look was replaced with hope.

Wondering what could have brought this change, Elizabeth observed he was reading from Job. She could almost hear God “speaking to him from out of the whirlwind of battle, ‘Gird up thy loins now like a man.’” Reading Job had given him new “courage and hope.”

Over the centuries, the book of Job has spoken to many people who relate to his struggles and questions. Many feel the reality of his suffering and have drawn strength from his encounter with God. The Bible tells us that through the “endurance of Job” we learn how “the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful” (James 5:11).

Today, remember that He is the “God of all comfort.” Turn to Him for the comfort you need. But also remember that you can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3–4).

Reflection Question: Which Scripture passage(s) brings you the most comfort?