If we life long enough we will find ourselves in a situation where we need to be comforted. It could be as a result of the loss of a loved one. Or we may need to be comforted when we suffer financial problems. We find that the best comfort is provided by sensitive people who have suffered similar turmoil. The companionship of similar afflictions touches our hearts and eases our minds unlike any other counsel. In the same way, we can best comfort others when we ourselves have suffered in the same manner as those to whom we offer comfort.
II Corinthians 1:3-4 says, “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.” When God blesses us, He expects us to use what we have received to bless others. So when we receive comfort from God, we should find ways to similarly comfort someone suffering affliction. All comfort for those who are suffering comes from God. But we can be the conduit for passing on the comfort which we have received.
Reluctant Retiree 