"Blessed be... the God of all consolation. who consoles us in all our affliction so that we may he able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God.".(2 Corinthians 1.3-4)

A good friend of mine is a doctor whose hobby is playing tennis. During a strenuous game. he injured his back and was confined to bed for months. He has had two operations, but he hasn't fully recovered and is constantly in pain. Because of this he can practise medicine only part time. During the last few years I have given this friend a copy of The Upper Room . Daily reading of the meditations has touched his heart and given him comfort. Recently, he asked me to subscribe to 50 copies so that he could distribute them to others who are suffering. My friend has become more sensitive to the struggles of others and wants them to receive the same comfort he has been receiving.

"God uses our suffering and weakness. They can open hearts and minds to God's love.... Everything works for good for those who love God and who open their hearts to God's mercy. (See Romans 8.28)

(Taken from The Upper Room, written by a contributor in Egypt.)