Comfort (empathy)
Caringly responding to a hurting person through words, actions, emotional responses and physical touch: hurting with and for others in the midst of their grief or pain. Romans 12:15, Matthew 5:4, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Jesus wept with friends. John 11:35
When you think of the word “comfort”, what comes to mind? What images does that word evoke? Do you think of a special place or perhaps a special person? Your grandmother’s home or her cooking? Do you think of a time when you’ve experienced comfort given by someone else? Or does this word elicit negative feelings for you – possibly because no one has ever truly comforted you? Let’s take a few minutes to explore this need and how we can meet it for our spouse and others.
A Worthy Goal:
Don’t stop investing wisely into your marriage until your children and friends envy your relationship and want one like it.
Be intentional about setting aside a few minutes this week or planning a date night to discuss Comfort together.
Husband, would you lead this time by reviewing the statements to be completed or questions being asked so that you know how to make the most of your time? When you are ready, please initiate a “LOVE (Speak)” time with your wife.
LOVE (Speak) —
1. As a couple, which of you seems to be more comfortable with giving comfort? Which of you seems to be more comfortable with receiving comfort?
2. Is it possible that your spouse might sense your need of comfort even before you do? Describe a situation where your spouse gave you comfort by coming alongside you with a tender touch or listening ear.
3. Check out 2 Corinthians 1:3-4. Is comfort important to God? Why do you feel He places so much emphasis on our being able and willing to comfort each other?
4. If your spouse has had a difficult day or week or month, what is typically something you would do to give comfort? If you are aware of some event that left your spouse very hurt or disappointed, what might you do to help bring comfort? (see the definition above)
5. Which expressions of comfort (word, feeling, or touch) are beneficial for your spouse? Which do you most like to receive from your spouse? Who is the best “comforter” you have known?
What About the Kids? Ask the kids these questions or discuss the following concepts of comfort with other adults revealing what you have observed in your child(ren).
Think of some times when children (at different ages) probably need comfort. Babies and children are usually pretty good at letting us know when comfort is needed. Grown children, even those who’ve moved out, are people who need to receive appropriate comfort at times.
In what ways could you give comfort to a little child?
In what appropriate ways could you give comfort to a teen or adult?