The East Coast of the North Island still recovering from Cyclone Gabrielle, have again been hit with torrential rain and flooding. Our prayers are with you. I felt I should re-share this message for all who are hurting.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us. . . . . 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 (New Living Translation)

We all have hard times and one day in the depths of emotional pain, seeking the Lord I picked up my Bible and it fell open to the above reading. The heading: ‘The God of All Comfort’. He knows! I read the passage ready to receive comfort. The first thing that stands out is starting with praise, so in spite of my circumstances, I praise God, I share with God the good things happening in my life, acknowledging how within my struggle there is still much for which I can praise Him! So in my pain I give God the sacrifice of praise.

The original greek translation behind the word ‘comfort’ speaks of God calling us. God comforts us through reminding us what our job on this planet is about. We have a purpose! I remember what God is calling me to do, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, to see the world transformed one person at a time. God has a plan for each of us - remember yours. If you don't know it yet just be reassured - you have one and He will reveal it in time.

I receive the assurance I AM NOT ALONE! I am called by God, my life has things to praise Him about. I have an awesome Father who loves me and his son, who holds me in his arms and one of Jesus jobs is healing the broken-hearted. Don't let circumstances steal your peace or joy. Don't let them interfere with the Plan and purpose that God has for you. Sit in His presence and let Him comfort you, until your peace comes back! Praise God indeed!!

May God bless and keep you all in Christ Jesus.