"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." (2 Corinthians 1:3–4, ESV).

Paul's life was a roller coaster ride, and much of it was filled with pain and difficulty. He endured much for the cause of Christ, but he kept on going because God comforted him for the work. Each step of the way, the Spirit energized Paul, tending to the apostle's wounds in the way only God can.

But notice Paul's sentiment in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 -- he felt the comfort he'd received was the comfort he'd extend. God had taken care of him, so he would take care of others. His conviction: I will comfort those in any affliction with the comfort I have received from God.

This is a model for our own lives. As we endure struggles and pains, God will meet us. If we seek him, we will find him. God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6). He will comfort us in our affliction.

And when God performs his comforting work, we must then brace ourselves to comfort others. We aren't a dead-end of God's grace, but a conduit for His comfort to extend to others.

My appeal for you today is straightforward: If God has comforted you through trials and pains, please speak up. Look for those the Spirit is trying to lead you to comfort. They need to hear your voice. Don't keep it to yourself any longer. Others must know the beautiful work God has done in you and through you. They must receive the comfort with which he's graced you. Please, open your mouth and sing his praises.

It is tempting to keep the comfort for ourselves or to think we have nothing to offer other believers.

But this isn't true. God's goodness to us must be broadcast. And there are people all around you who are in need of your story. They don't need to be told it'll all be all right, but they could benefit greatly from knowing how God stood with you in your previous pains and hardships. Your story of grace could be the lifeline they need. Speak it!