Afflictions & Conflicts
Followers of Christ are in many countries.  We all need encouragement as we face pressures of one kind or another, no matter where we live.

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 7:5 “for even when we came into Macedonia our flesh had no rest, but we were afflicted on every side: conflicts without, fears within.”

Many times, followers of Christ have no rest from people and/or circumstances which bring pressures from all sides.  Conflicts all around, pressing in on us and fears within our thinking.

Fears for the sake of others to remain faithful as they follow Christ Jesus in their circumstances.  Fears for ourselves to not stumble or falter.

Comfort given by God
But God – He comforts those who are depressed.  One way He comforts is by sending a beloved believer to us.  And not only the person themselves, but the message they bring.  They bring their love and reminders of God’s love.

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 7:6 “But God, who comforts the depressed, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
7 and not only by his coming, but also by the comfort with which he was comforted in you, as he reported to us your longing, your mourning, your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced even more.”

Rejoice ~ Followers of Christ!  We are to rejoice when the living God comforts us.  Rejoice when He encourages us.  Rejoice when He satisfies our longings.  Rejoice when He replaces mourning with joy.  Rejoice when He gives you zeal for other believers.

~ Take it to heart ~

We are not to cling to hurts and self-pity – we are to have our spiritual eyes open to “see” God at work in our lives and in the lives of believers.  And when we do “see” – we are to Rejoice!

Rejoice ~ Follower of Christ

(NASB) Psalm 118:24
“This is the day the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

(NASB) Psalm 118:29
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.”