Comforter

"Consolation was found in my comforter..."

What is it about lying in bed wrapped up in a heavy quilt or layers of blankets that brings such comfort? Some people even purchase “weighted blankets” for that very reason.

Have you ever been sick and all you wanted to do was lay in bed enveloped in the warmth of blankets snuggling down in pillows just resting? Like a warm heating pad, I draw relief in the weightiness and warmth of my sheets and blankets. And right now, as I recover from a bout with the Covid virus, the comfort of my bed is a present reality.

After my mother died, my bed seemed to offer me a sort of retreat: an unexplained respite from life as I hid in the tangled bed linens while God untangled the sorrowful emotions that wrapped me in a blanket of grief. I found solace in the comfort of my sanctuary right along with God’s Presence as I wept my way through the dark season of night in my soul. Consolation was found in my comforter.

"No urgent need to rush into the day..."

Sometimes in the morning, I simply enjoy the quiet and rest in my bed: no urgent need to rush into the day. Rather, a tranquil and unhurried rousing of my senses and the awareness that God is with me—like coffee slowly percolating my senses awake to the fragrant aroma of the day. I enjoy reading my devotionals in bed at times, just meditating on a verse and slowly awakening to a new day. There is comfort there.

I have a beautiful knitted throw I relish using whenever I’m curled up on a couch reading or just watching TV. The throw was lovingly made by a group of my friends, and then crocheted together. It was given to me years ago as a birthday gift. I enjoy using it, more as a reminder that I am stitched up in love, just like the love and comfort of God.

"I feel stitched up in love..."

On Sundays, sometimes I love to nap and draw away to rest in my bed with an awareness that God is recharging me for the week ahead. Even the Creator rested on the seventh day and found delight in all that He accomplished. He took comfort and pleasure while He rested.

There’s something about rest and comfort that renews the body and soul.

Whatever our need or longing, God says He is our “wraparound Presence” and a “comfort in time of need.” And like the weightiness of a down comforter or quilt, God’s Presence can be tangible too.

God yearns for us to draw near to Him, to hide in the shadow of His wings—like a feathered or down comforter. He longs for us to find life and consolation in Him whenever we have a need—be it great or small. Or maybe it’s just a slow lingering of intimacy with the Beloved as you rest in His love and peace. He is after all called the “Comforter” and there is a reason: He desires to manifest that to you, to me, whatever the need.

For now, I’m finding respite in my bed and pile of sheets, blankets, and pillows, letting the Comforter minister to my physical needs as I recover. And it is well with my soul for I am comforted.

"For now, my bed is my respite and comfort..."

Beloved:

Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you. Like a tender, loving, parent, I long to meet your needs and to comfort you in any trial or affliction. Sometimes, I just long to draw close to you with affection—like the gentle kiss of a beloved one as I simply delight in you. It pleases My heart when you allow Me to be your Comforter for whatever reason. You are My beloved.

“For God alone has become my Savior. He alone is my safe place; His wraparound presence always protects me.” (Psalm 60: 2 1b and 2a)

“Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)

“He will give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.” (John 14:16)