At times, we all need comfort, which Wiltschek describes as “the idea of supporting someone emotionally–soothing and shoring up their spirits.”
This devotional entry has me really thinking about what I turn to for comfort when I am facing stress.
I am a member of a weight loss group called TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly). One of the many things I have learned from TOPS is that the answer to life’s problems is not in the refrigerator or the pantry. I, and many like me, turn to “comfort foods” to soothe us when we are stressed. That huge bowl of ice cream or pile of chocolates feels good in the moment, and that seems soothing. But, later on, we suffer the physical and emotional discomfort of having overindulged in unhealthy choices. Plus, the original problem that was causing the stress has remained unaddressed and unimproved. The answer is not in the fridge!
My TOPS group explores a variety of healthy ways for finding that longed-for comfort, authentic “soothing and shoring up,” such as meditation, physical activity, hobbies, to-do lists that address the issue at hand, time in nature, spiritual connection, the right amount of sleep, and communion with others.
To what do you turn for comfort? Does it actually bring authentic comfort, or is it a “comfort substitute” that feels good only in the moment?
In a recent sermon about Lightening the Load of Worry, Pastor Pam gave us a list of R’s. This list made a big impact on me. Those R’s could benefit us in so many ways, including in our search for comfort:
Rest
Rehydrate
Root yourself in prayer and gratitude.
Remember that the world already has a savior, and it isn’t you.
Request what you need from God.
Return to the you-shaped work that God needs you to do.
I am feeling very blessed to have such supportive resources in my life. They are comforting!
This day's devotion reminds me I am blessed with so many comforts. It's even comforting to list them all: my relationship with our church and its people, friends, music, my sweet dog, the trees which surround me here in Gretna, and little things like putting puzzles together, reading, a cup of coffee while sitting by the fire, driving through farmland in Lancaster County. Most are quiet comforts, I notice. No matter how busy I am, I need quiet time to recharge and renew. The natural world and its creatures are especially comforting to me. My horses were special to me when I lived on the farm. When I list all these I am thoughtful of the Ukrainians who now have none of those comforts except that they do seem to have each other and a faith that they will survive.