Go Find Your Old Self

Karen

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

—2 Corinthians 1:3–4

I sat on my twin-sized bed, curled up in my lavender bedspread, sobbing until I felt I had no tears left. My eleven-year-old self once again had her hopes dashed, causing a wave of grief that would only subside once exhaustion set in and sleep took over.

Over the years, the four walls of my bedroom witnessed the heart cries of a young girl trying desperately to navigate relationships, reality, and a new normal.

Toward the end of high school, I became connected to the little country church across the street where I was told the gospel story. I responded to the Spirit’s invitation and placed my trust in Jesus. Becoming a believer didn’t change my circumstances. But it did change my response to them.

As I spent time with my mentor from the church, Miss Pat, I saw where to take my sorrow, how to deal with my grief, and how to find comfort in the security of God’s love.

Today’s passage, 2 Corinthians 1:3–4, is a picture of this very concept.

As Miss Pat thought about the ways God had comforted her in the past, she reached out to me with that same comfort, helping me deal with the various situations life brought my way. She pointed me to the Father of compassion.

Today, as a mother of teenagers and young adults, I often find myself in a situation similar to hers. In many ways I feel that by ministering to the people God sends my way, I am being like Miss Pat was to me. I am comforting others with the comfort I myself have received from Christ.

If you feel your past hurts lack purpose, I have a very simple solution: Go find a version of your old self and encourage her. Comfort her. Love her. Point her to Christ. When you do, you will find purpose in your past pain. And you’ll be an example to someone who just might keep the circle of comfort going.

Father, thank You for being my hope and comforting me in all my troubles. May I encourage others with the stories of Your faithfulness to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Who is your old self? Describe her below. Describe how you would have liked to have been comforted at that time in your life. Tuck this away in your mind, and commit to seeking out this old version of you. When you find her, love her well.