“He comforts us [...] so that we may be able to comfort with the comfort we receive from God” (2 COR. 1:4).
1. Why should we comfort others?
We should comfort others because in doing so we follow the example of Jehovah, who is “the God of all comfort” and comforts us in “every sort of trial.” Furthermore, we all experience distress from various trials, and just as we appreciate encouragement when we are suffering, it is good to do the same for others.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because many of our brothers and sisters are going through difficult trials and need to know that we will be there to support and comfort them.
Because many of our brothers and sisters are going through difficult trials and need to know that we will be there to support and comfort them.
Personally, we appreciate it when, during difficult times or when we're suffering, someone offers words of encouragement and support. Even more so, we should do the same for others, because we will all need it at some point.
We are invited to reflect on the Golden Rule: do for others what you would like them to do for you. We all need encouragement, and at some point, we experience discouragement. If we appreciate encouragement when we need it, we should also be attentive to others and offer them encouragement.
We should also do this because in this way we imitate Jehovah, who is the God of all comfort and, as shown in 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4, comforts us in all tribulation.
In this article, we will first discuss what the Bible means by comfort. Second, we will look at how to comfort others. And third, we will discuss what to do when we need comfort.
THE MEANING OF “COMFORT” IN THE BIBLE
2. In the Bible, what meanings can the Greek word translated “comfort” have?
In the Bible, the Greek word translated as “comfort” can have several meanings depending on the context. It can convey the idea of “encouraging,” “exhorting,” and “advising.” Literally, it means “to call to one’s side,” suggesting approaching someone who is suffering to offer support, help, and encouragement. The result is that the person is strengthened and comforted.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
What it means is to convey the idea of encouraging, urging, and advising. Literally, it means "to call someone to one's side."
The truth is, these expressions don't seem very similar. It speaks of encouraging, exhorting, and advising. However, the word "comfort" encompasses all three of these aspects. Therefore, when we exhort or advise someone, we shouldn't do so in a harsh or unkind way. Everything should be interwoven and reflect a spirit of comfort.
The text of Romans 12:8 says: “Let the one who encourages, encourage; let the one who gives, give generously; let the one who leads, lead diligently; let the one who shows mercy, do it cheerfully.”
The paragraph gives the example of a person who runs to the aid of a friend who is suffering to give him the support he needs and encourage him.
3. What good example did Barnabas set for us? (See also the image).
Barnabas set a good example for us of being a person who comforts and helps others. He stood out for encouraging, supporting, and coming to the aid of his brothers and sisters. For example, when the disciples were afraid of Saul because of his past as a persecutor, Barnabas trusted him, helped him, and introduced him to the apostles.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We see that on several occasions, Barnabas came to the aid of the brothers. In the case of Saul, when he arrived in Jerusalem, the disciples were afraid of him because of his reputation for having previously persecuted Christians. However, as Acts 9:27 says, Barnabas brought him before the apostles and told them in detail what had happened to him. He even explained how Saul had preached with great boldness. As we see in verse 28, thanks to this, Saul was able to meet with the disciples and preach freely in Jerusalem.
It's interesting that his name was Joseph, but the apostles themselves, because of his behavior, called him Barnabas, which means "Son of Comfort." Undoubtedly, that name was not a minor detail. Barnabas wasn't obligated to act as an intermediary between the apostles and Saul, but he saw the need to help and offer comfort, and he didn't hesitate to do so. Therefore, that name suited him very well, because giving comfort was part of his nature.
The image shows Barnabas smiling at Saul as he introduces him to two of the apostles. It's clear he lives up to his nickname. Without a doubt, he is being a true "Son of Consolation."
The detail discussed in the paragraph can also be seen in the image. Barnabas's attitude clearly reflects why he was called "Son of Consolation." Furthermore, the fact that he is no longer referred to as Joseph from that point on helps us understand that this way of acting was a constant characteristic of his personality.
Perhaps it took effort on his part, but he always tried to offer comfort to others. In our case, perhaps at times, due to the circumstances we are going through, we don't do so because we ourselves are going through a difficult time. However, Barnabas's example helps us see that we can always strive to be people who comfort others.
The paragraph says that he told them everything in detail. So, in order to accurately explain Paul's story, he first had to listen to him very carefully. This teaches us that we should do the same with our brothers and sisters.
ILLUSTRATION
Barnabas looked at Saul with a smile and took him to the house of one of the apostles to introduce him. The two apostles who were there looked at Saul with suspicion as he approached them.
Barnabas lived up to his name. (See paragraph 3).
HOW TO COMFORT OTHERS
4. What is one of the best ways to comfort others? (Romans 1:11, 12).
One of the best ways to comfort others is by visiting them, if possible. Spending time with someone who is suffering can greatly strengthen them, just as Paul acknowledged in Romans 1:11, 12 when he highlighted the powerful effect of encouraging brothers and sisters in person. If circumstances don't permit a visit, we can also comfort them by sending a message, making a call, sending a card, or writing a letter.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
As Paul said, “I long to see you.” Therefore, if possible, an in-person visit is a very good way to comfort others.
If possible, it shouldn't just be a quick "hello and goodbye" visit; we should spend time with the person and show genuine interest in them. And if we can't visit, it would be nice to send an encouraging message, call them, or even write them a letter.
One of the best ways to comfort others is to visit our brothers and sisters in need. If we share Paul's perspective, as shown in Romans 1:11, we will be eager to visit them, offering encouragement, advice, and the comfort they need. And that, as the passage says, requires time, effort, and, above all, love.
5. What can we expect from this system?
In this system, we can expect life to become increasingly difficult and that comforting our brothers and sisters in person will require more effort and courage. There may be situations where helping others involves facing risks or difficulties, but we should be willing to follow the example of faithful servants like Onesiphorus and other brothers and sisters who have supported their fellow believers despite opposition or persecution.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
In this system, we can expect that, as time goes on, life will become more difficult, and it will also be more difficult to comfort our brothers and sisters. That is why we must be prepared. And how can we do this? By learning from good examples. We have a great example in our brothers and sisters in Russia, who are willing to lose their freedom to support those who are being tried. So, if we prepare ourselves now, it will be much easier to do so when difficult times come.
The example of Onesiphorus, who, like the brothers in Russia mentioned earlier, was willing to risk everything to support his brethren, is very encouraging. He searched for Paul while he was imprisoned in Rome and did so tirelessly until he found him. Of course, if someone is imprisoned and another person searches for him from one jail to another, they too might risk being arrested. But he didn't care about that; what he wanted was to find his brother and encourage him.
6. How can we imitate Jehovah by comforting others? (See also the picture.)
We can imitate Jehovah by comforting others through attentive, patient, and loving listening. Just as Jehovah listened to Elijah and Habakkuk without growing weary or angry, we should be “quick to listen,” not interrupting or becoming annoyed even if the person is repetitive or says something inappropriate. In this way, we demonstrate respect, understanding, and genuine interest in others.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We can imitate Jehovah by listening attentively and respectfully to our brothers and sisters when they are telling us something. Let us be quick to listen.
Interestingly, Habakkuk expressed his concerns in a way that might have seemed disrespectful, but Jehovah was not offended or reacted negatively to his words; rather, he saw what was behind them. Perhaps he was a faithful servant who was distressed and needed answers.
When a sibling is going through a difficult time, we shouldn't focus so much on how they say things, but rather on why they say them. And if we first listen with empathy, it will be much easier for them to then accept the comfort or advice we can offer.
We must remember that listening is not the same as remaining silent, waiting for the other person to finish explaining their situation so we can offer advice. James 1:19 says we must be quick to listen. We should listen without rushing and without thinking about what we're going to say next. A beautiful saying goes that we have two ears and one mouth, which means we should listen twice as much as we speak, especially when we are trying to comfort someone.
The paragraph mentions several examples, one of which is that of Elijah. He felt his life was in danger, so he poured out his heart to Jehovah and explained what was happening to him. Jehovah already knew what he was going through. However, he listened attentively, showed him affection, and even though Elijah repeated his concerns, Jehovah never tired of listening to him.
The picture shows two sisters with a cake and coffee on the table. This is usually done in the afternoon, but the clock reads 9:45, which indicates that the sister who is listening has been doing so for quite some time.
In the picture, we can also see from the sister's facial expression that she is sad, that she is very upset. We also see the kitchen; it's not very clear, but it looks like it's been left uncleaned. Perhaps she has been too distressed to do the normal household chores. Surely the sister will help with that eventually, but right now the most important thing is to listen.
ILLUSTRATION
One sister patiently listens to another sister vent her feelings. The hours pass and it gets late.
Let us imitate Jehovah and listen carefully to our brothers. (See paragraph 6.)
7. How can we find out what someone who is suffering needs?
We can find out what someone who is suffering needs by listening very carefully and asking tactful questions. Since we cannot read hearts as Jehovah does, we should not assume what the person needs or base our decisions solely on what we would need in their situation. Each person is different, so we must take the time to understand their feelings and how we can help them.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Jehovah can read hearts, but we cannot. So the only way to know what comfort someone needs is by listening to them very carefully.
As Proverbs 20:5 says, the thoughts of a man's heart are like deep waters. That is to say, each person is a world unto themselves, and the best thing we can do is take the time to listen attentively and ask tactful questions that allow us to understand their feelings and needs.
We need to think about what the brother or sister we're listening to is going through, and put ourselves in the place we would like others to put themselves in for us. When we walk in other people's shoes, we can better perceive and understand the situation they are experiencing.
The image shows the sister recounting her situation, clearly distressed, while the sister listening attentively pays close attention to what she is saying. This is how we can help our brothers and sisters.
8. How did Jesus comfort Martha and Mary, and what do we learn? (See also the pictures.)
Jesus comforted Martha and Mary in different ways, taking into account what each one needed. He strengthened Martha's faith by speaking to her about the resurrection, while he comforted Mary by showing empathy, weeping with her, and sharing in her grief.
We learn that there is no single formula to comfort everyone; we must listen, show understanding, and strive to discover what each person needs in order to provide them with the appropriate support.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Both women had suffered the same loss; however, Jesus responded to each of them very differently. To Martha, he spoke about the resurrection, thus strengthening her faith in that hope. In contrast, when Mary approached weeping, he wept with her and asked her where they had laid Lazarus. This teaches us that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each person is different, and we must find out what each one needs.
In the image, we see an elderly man comforting two brothers who have lost their wives. In one instance, he reads the Bible to one of them and listens to them; in the other, he reminisces with them about their lost loved one. Each person has their own needs, and the elderly must adapt to be able to help.
In the image, we see that, in the case of the brother on the left, the loss is perhaps too recent to speak to him of hope. Maybe at that moment he just needs to cry and let it all out, and his brother listens, offers his support, and puts his hand on his shoulder, as if to say, “I’m here, let it all out.”
In the image on the right, we see that perhaps more time has passed; the brother has come to terms with the loss of his wife a little more, and some good advice or speaking to him about the hope of the resurrection might be very appropriate at that moment. We must adapt to each brother's circumstances.
ILLUSTRATION
Images of an elderly man visiting two widowers: 1. The elderly man places his hand on the shoulder of one brother as he weeps. 2. The elderly man shows a Bible verse to an older brother, and they look at photos in an album together.
When comforting others, let us try to find out what they really need. (See paragraph 8.)
9. How does the Bible help us to comfort others? (Romans 15:4, 5).
The Bible helps us to comfort others because through it we can give them “the comfort of the Scriptures” and strengthen their hope. Bible verses can encourage and strengthen those who are going through difficulties. To do this better, we can prepare ourselves by having encouraging verses on hand and ask Jehovah to help us use his Word in the most appropriate way.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We should offer comfort using the Bible. It's assumed we've already listened to the person, understand their situation, and know what they need. For example, if someone is bitter or has problems, we can analyze the situation. Some may feel bitter because of the cruelty of others, jealousy, or envy. If we've already listened to the person, we can choose some verses that might offer them comfort.
The text in Romans says that the comfort of Scripture gives us hope, and hope itself encourages us. Isaiah 40:31 compares it to the flight of an eagle, saying that those who put their hope in Jehovah will regain their strength and soar on wings like eagles. This hope, based on the texts of the Bible, is like those currents of air that sustain us when we cannot stand on our own.
The Bible teaches us at John 14:26 that we can ask Jehovah for help, because he can make us remember those words or teachings that, at that moment, may be very appropriate to help that person.
Something that will help us remember them is making a personal list. We can do this within the app itself, by highlighting certain texts and adding them to a list. We can also refer to the recently prepared publication on biblical texts for the Christian life, where a link is provided. By searching by topic, we can find a wealth of biblical texts and, in addition, the experiences of past servants who lived through different situations, experiences that we can apply to our own times.
10. Why is it so important to speak kindly when comforting?
It is so important to speak kindly when comforting others because our words can heal or hurt. When someone needs correction or counsel, we should think carefully before speaking and choose kind words, just as Jehovah did with Elijah. By speaking with love, respect, and kindness, we can help our brothers and sisters change their way of thinking, encourage them, and strengthen them.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because, as Proverbs 12:18 says, words spoken without thinking are like the thrusts of a sword. This comparison to the damage a sword can inflict leads us to understand that these wounds don't disappear overnight, but can last a long time. That's why it's so important to think carefully about what we're going to say, because, as the text also shows, our words can heal wounds.
Elijah's example shows that he thought he had failed as a prophet and that he was the only one in all of Israel still serving God. With great love, Jehovah corrected his thinking without directly telling him he was wrong.
This final point is particularly striking, where it speaks of being kind and positive when giving speeches or making comments at meetings. Thinking about it, it's true that someone in the meeting might need comfort, and what you say could be just what you need. But if the comment were negative, it could be hurtful. So we should strive to make our comments and what we say positive.
People listen more openly when they feel safe, and kindness creates a safe space. When we encourage someone to adjust their thinking, gentle words help them accept the guidance without feeling attacked.
The texts of 1 Kings 19:9-18 show when Jehovah spoke to Elijah. But at first, he didn't directly comfort him about what Elijah had complained about when he said, “I am the only one left, and they want to kill me.” Instead, Jehovah gave him a commission: he told him to go his way and anoint one king and then another. At the end of all this, after giving him such an important and responsible task, Jehovah reminded him, as if to say, “By the way, there are 7,000 more who worship me like you.” And that was a wonderful way of comforting and encouraging him.
11. What do those who are suffering often need? (1 John 3:18).
Often, those who are suffering need more than just words of comfort; they need practical help and expressions of love. We can follow Barnabas's example by offering concrete assistance to those going through difficulties. In this way, we demonstrate our love and support through our actions, just as 1 John 3:18 teaches.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
They need our practical help, that is, through actions. For example, that's what Barnabas did, who, in addition to being a brother who was always comforting others, helped practically when he sold a piece of land and used the money to help new brothers who were poor.
In the paragraph, we see the example of a sister who recounts a flood and how the brothers quickly came to her aid, which greatly strengthened her faith. Furthermore, this help brought glory to Jehovah, which is what we all seek.
12. How do we help our brothers and sisters when we are going through difficulties?
We help our brothers and sisters when we endure hardships because our example of faithfulness and trust in Jehovah can encourage and strengthen them. Seeing that we continue serving Jehovah despite our problems, they receive encouragement and realize that Jehovah helps us to remain steadfast.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Every time we arrive at the Kingdom Hall and see our brothers and sisters who we know are struggling with serious problems—whether health-related, emotional, or otherwise—and yet still see them faithfully present, it encourages and comforts us. Something similar happened to Paul, who said at Colossians 2:1, 2: “I want you to understand the great struggle I am having.” And for what purpose? To encourage and comfort them.
Sometimes we think we have to be perfect or project a certain image, but we all suffer at some point. Sometimes, sharing our experiences of suffering and how Jehovah has helped us can help others think: “I’m not alone. If Jehovah helped them, he can help me too.”
At Colossians 2:1, 2, the apostle Paul says that one of his objectives was to comfort even those who had not met him personally. Although he knew some brothers in Colossae, it appears he had not yet visited that congregation, so many did not know him. However, when they learned of the great struggle he was facing—for when he wrote this letter he was imprisoned in Rome—and how Jehovah was helping him to remain faithful, those brothers were undoubtedly greatly encouraged.
Similarly, when we read about the brothers in Russia or other servants of Jehovah whom we do not know personally, their experiences and the way in which Jehovah strengthens them also greatly encourage us.
13. What quality do we need, and why?
We need to be patient, because our efforts to comfort a brother or sister may not yield immediate results. The Bible encourages us to keep comforting one another, which means doing so consistently. That is why we must persevere and not give up on helping those who need encouragement.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We need to be patient. The Bible encourages us to keep encouraging one another, as 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says. So we should apply this counsel and not give up. We must keep in mind that it will not always be easy to offer comfort, but if we maintain that attitude and keep trying, the brother will certainly appreciate it, and most importantly, we will be pleasing Jehovah.
Often, the results won't be immediate. In some cases, they may take some time to appear, even years. That's why we must cultivate patience and continue offering comfort, trusting that the results will come with time.
1 Thessalonians 5:14 tells us to warn the undisciplined, comfort the depressed, and support the weak. But above all, it adds: “Be patient with everyone.” This encourages us to exercise patience. Whatever problem a brother or sister has, we should listen to them patiently.
WHAT TO DO WHEN WE NEED COMFORT
14, 15. What should we do if we feel overwhelmed or distressed?
If we feel overwhelmed or distressed, we should pray to Jehovah and honestly tell him how we feel, asking him to comfort us. He hears our prayers and can give us the peace that protects our heart and mind.
We can also ask for help from mature brothers or a trusted elder, telling them how we feel so that they can listen to us, encourage us, and give us support based on the Bible.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
One of the things we should do is pray to Jehovah, for, as Psalm 94:19 says, when worries overwhelm us, he comforts and calms us. Although Jehovah already knows what we need, by opening our hearts to him we demonstrate our faith in him, and he will always comfort us in the best way possible.
The other recommendation would be to ask for help. Proverbs 14:10 says that each person knows their own bitterness or pain. Perhaps sharing our joys comes more naturally to us, but often we keep our sorrows to ourselves so as not to bother others or because we think that others already have enough to worry about. However, we shouldn't be passive. We should ask for help and express what we truly need so that others can support us.
Our siblings won't know beforehand what's happening to us. That's why it's important that we tell them how we feel so they can offer us that support too.
It can be helpful to choose a Bible verse that goes straight to the point of what they are telling us and touches their heart. Or perhaps we can recall an article or experience that fits their situation and can comfort them. If we are the ones feeling overwhelmed or distressed, we could also ask a brother or sister to share a Bible verse or experience that has helped them.
16. What might happen when others try to encourage us, but what should we remember?
When others try to encourage us, they may make mistakes or say or do something that, instead of making us feel better, makes us feel worse. However, we must remember that we are all imperfect and that, as James 3:2 says, we all stumble over our own words.
Therefore, it is important to focus on the good intentions of our brothers, to be patient and forgive them, keeping in mind that "the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because we are imperfect, we sometimes make mistakes, especially when offering advice. Therefore, even if someone occasionally struggles to find the right words and unintentionally makes us feel worse, we should appreciate their effort and be grateful. The important thing is to recognize that their intention was to help and comfort us.
Let us remember what James 3:2 says: that we all stumble many times. So it's normal that, at times, we make mistakes with our words. But the important thing is that we focus on the good intentions of our brother and have patience.
17. What goal should we set for ourselves?
Our goal should be to comfort and encourage one another as much as possible. Since difficulties have increased and opposition has intensified in recent days, we all need support and encouragement. Therefore, we must strive to strengthen and comfort one another.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We must make it our goal to comfort one another as much as we can. Especially because we know that we are getting closer every day to the end of this system and that times will become increasingly critical. That is why it is necessary for us all to offer each other comfort and encouragement.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
What is the meaning of “comfort” in the Bible?
In the Bible, the Greek word translated as “comfort” can mean to encourage, exhort, or advise, depending on the context. It literally means “to call to one’s side,” suggesting approaching someone going through a difficult time to offer support, help, and encouragement. In this way, the person receives strength and feels fortified.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We have seen that comforting means approaching someone to encourage them, give them support, and advise them with kind words until they feel strengthened.
How can we comfort others?
We can comfort others by visiting them if possible, listening attentively, trying to find out what they really need, and using the Bible to strengthen them. We can also encourage them with a call, a message, a letter, or a card when it's not possible to be with them in person. By listening patiently, asking tactful questions, and sharing appropriate Bible verses, we can provide the support and comfort they need.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We can comfort others in many ways: by visiting them if possible, by listening to them carefully, and by using the Bible to strengthen their hope.
Another way is to listen to them attentively. Jehovah set the example for us: he never tired of listening to his servants, even though he already knew what they needed and what they were going through. So, when we are trying to comfort others, let us listen to them attentively and not interrupt them.
Let's try to find out what they really need by asking tactful questions.
Martha and Mary, when their brother Lazarus died, received different responses from Jesus. To one, he spoke of the resurrection to strengthen her faith, and to the other, he simply stayed with her and wept with her to comfort her. This teaches us that each person is different and needs something different.
One suggestion is to use the Bible and ask Jehovah in prayer to give us his holy spirit to remember Bible texts that can help the person.
It's important to speak kindly, especially when we need to encourage someone or help them change their way of thinking. As Proverbs 12:18 says, words spoken without thinking are like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Another way to help is through practical actions. We all know siblings who are always willing to lend a hand when there's a move, a home repair, or a difficult situation. That kind of help speaks volumes and is the example we want to follow.
We can encourage others by enduring our own difficulties, because by seeing how Jehovah helps us, our brothers can feel strengthened to face their own problems.
And finally, we must be patient and not give up if our efforts do not produce immediate results.
What can we do when we need comfort?
When we need comfort, we can pray to Jehovah and honestly tell him everything we feel, trusting that he will give us the peace and help we need. We can also ask for help from a mature friend or a trusted elder, expressing how we feel so that they can encourage and strengthen us.
Furthermore, we must be patient and forgive if those trying to comfort us make mistakes or can't find the right words. In such cases, it's best to focus on their good intentions and remember that we are all imperfect.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We should pray to Jehovah and ask him to comfort us. Psalm 62:8 invites us to pour out our hearts before him, for he is our refuge. So we should be specific and tell him what we are going through and how we are feeling.
We can ask for help from brothers and sisters who have gone through similar situations. They can explain how they have benefited from Bible readings or experiences, and they can help us.
We must be patient and forgiving. We know that we are all imperfect and that we can make mistakes when trying to encourage other brothers and sisters. But let us remember what James 3:2 says: "Anyone who never stumbles in their words is perfect." Therefore, we must focus on the good intentions of our brothers and sisters.
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