2 Corinthians 1

The key word for 2 Corinthians according to several commentators is "encouragement."  Paul had received word that the church had received his first letter and had taken the necessary measures to deal with the issues which he addressed in the first letter.  In the opening chapter we find this theme of encouragement to be addressed during the customary salutation and greeting.  Paul specifically addresses the issues of discomfort in life while finding comfort in God.  As he addresses the cold hard facts of life, Paul gives specific examples in his own life of where he has faced hardships, trials, tribulations, and afflictions.  In verse 8 Paul states, "For we don't want you to be unaware, brothers, of our affliction that took place in the province of Asia: we were completely overwhelmed—beyond our strength—so that we even despaired of life."  While he does not go into the complete details at this point, there is speculation as to whether he references a particular uprising, the incident where Jews sought to ambush and kill him, or a person who was working against him.  We do realize the incident was severe enough in nature that Paul wrote "we despaired of life." 

How many times in our own life have we felt as though we faced situations beyond our ability?  Were there times when you felt as though the perilous times were abounding so great that the waves which surrounded you seemed destined to drown you?  Maybe you are in such a time now.  Paul gives great words of encouragement for the Corinthians and us. In verses 3-4a Paul states, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. He comforts us in our entire affliction..."  But doesn't stop at that point he goes on to say there is more than one reason I bring you comfort.  First, everything God does is to bring glory to His name.  Secondly He is our Father and thus wants to relieve our suffering.  But in addition He offers us comfort "so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God."  I am a firm believer that to whoever comfort has been given, he then better knows how to comfort others.  When we have gone through adversity and trials we have a better perspective to offer to those in pain.

Takeaways:
1.  The Bible does not promise that afflictions and hardships will disappear when we trust in Christ, but God does promise to comfort and strengthen us in such times.
2.  God offers relief and comfort to His children when they face hardships in life for His name.
3.  We are expected to offer comfort to others after having received it ourselves.