A Source of Comfort

Then you will say on that day, I will give thanks to you, O LORD, for although You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me. Isaiah 12:1

I love seeing the heart of God in Scripture. For years I would read a verse like this and only see the phrase, "You were angry with me." I know what it is like to be around people who are displeased with me, irritated with me, and just plain angry with me. My response is usually to avoid them if there doesn't seem to be a way to get on their good side. They are the last people I would seek comfort and encouragement from.

On the other hand, I know the people I feel safe with and would easily turn to for comfort and reassurance. Their hugs would be sincere and their soothing words would reach my spirit. True comfort would come because they know my story and don't hold it against me.

I take delight in the fact that while there will be days God is angry with my actions, He is also the One to comfort me. Once the anger is spent and the discipline is complete, He is the One who can make me feel better deep down inside. Whether it is relief from pain, shame, or difficulties, it is His arms that remind me I am His child and He still delights in me.

When I think of being comforted, I think of a person's arms around me and hearing them speak words of assurance to me. The odd part is that I don't usually seek the comfort from someone I have offended or angered. If I got into trouble as a child my experience was to keep my distance until the offense was forgotten or the anger had subsided. As a parent, my heart breaks to see my children respond in the same way.

God is different. The very One who gets angry at me is the One who comforts me.

Father, Your arms never fail to be open and Your heart never stops desiring reconciliation. I come to You! Amen.