Comforting Scriptures for Unbelievers in Times of Tragedy
Comforting Scriptures for Unbelievers in Times of Tragedy
In times of tragedy, Christians are often called upon to comfort those who do not share their faith. The Bible provides numerous passages that can be used to offer solace and hope to unbelievers. One such passage is Matthew 5:4, where Jesus says, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted" [4]. While this verse is often interpreted as a blessing for believers, its message of comfort can be applied more broadly.
The Psalms are a rich source of comforting scriptures. Psalm 37:39 states, "But the salvation of the righteous is from Yahweh. He is their stronghold in the time of trouble" [3]. Although this verse is addressed to the righteous, its promise of God's presence and protection can be a source of comfort to anyone experiencing hardship. Similarly, Psalm 32:10 says, "Many sorrows come to the wicked, but loving kindness shall surround him who trusts in Yahweh" [5]. This verse acknowledges that suffering is not limited to believers, but also highlights the loving kindness of God.
When comforting unbelievers, it is essential to show empathy and understanding. The Bible encourages believers to sympathize with those who are afflicted, to bear them in mind, and to visit them [2]. Job 6:14 says, "To him who is afflicted, pity should be shown by his friend" [2]. By demonstrating compassion and kindness, Christians can create an environment where unbelievers feel comfortable exploring the message of the gospel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook highlights various scriptures that can be used to comfort the afflicted, including Psalms 46:5,7; Isaiah 43:2; and 2 Corinthians 1:4,5 [1]. These passages emphasize God's presence, comfort, and preservation in times of trouble. For example, 2 Corinthians 1:4 says, "Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God" [7]. According to Adam Clarke, this verse highlights God's role as the "God of all consolation" who comforts believers in their tribulations, enabling them to comfort others [7].
The Bible also encourages believers to pray for those who are afflicted. Acts 12:5 records that "Peter therefore was kept in prison, but prayer was made earnestly of the church unto God for him" [2]. By praying for unbelievers, Christians demonstrate their care and concern for their well-being.
While the primary focus of comforting scriptures is often on believers, many passages can be applied more broadly to offer hope and solace to unbelievers. Isaiah 61:2-3 says, "To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion... to bestow on them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit" [6]. John Gill interprets this passage as a promise of comfort to those who mourn in Zion, including those who are sorrowful for their sins and the state of the church [6].
Sources
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Afflicted Saints — God is with -- Ps 46:5,7; Isa 43:2. God is a refuge and strength to -- Ps 27:5,6; Isa 25:4; Jer 16:19; Na 1:7. God comforts -- Isa 49:13; Jer 31:13; Mt 5:4; 2Co 1:4,5; 7:6. God preserves -- Ps 34:20. God delivers -- Ps 34:4,19; Pr 12:13; Jer 39:17,18. Christ is with -- Joh 14:18. Christ supports -- 2Ti 4:17; Heb 2:18. Christ comforts -- Isa 61:2; Mt 11:28-30; Lu 7:13; Joh 14:1; 16:33. Christ preserves -- Isa 63:9; Lu 21:18. Christ delivers -- Re 3:10. Should praise God -- Ps 13:5,6; 56:8-10; 57:6,7; 71:20-23. Should imitate Christ -- Heb 12:1-3; 1P”
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Afflicted, Duty Toward The — To pray for them -- Ac 12:5; Php 1:16,19; Jas 5:14-16. To sympathise with them -- Ro 12:15; Ga 6:2. To pity them -- Job 6:14. To bear them in mind -- Heb 13:3. To visit them -- Jas 1:27. To comfort them -- Job 16:5; 29:25; 2Co 1:4; 1Th 4:18. To relieve them -- Job 31:19,20; Isa 58:10; Php 4:14; 1Ti 5:10. To protect them -- Ps 82:3; Pr 22:22; 31:5.”
- Psalms “But the salvation of the righteous is from Yahweh. He is their stronghold in the time of trouble. -- Psalms 37:39”
- Matthew “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. -- Matthew 5:4”
- Psalms “Many sorrows come to the wicked, but loving kindness shall surround him who trusts in Yahweh. -- Psalms 32:10”
- Isaiah (Baptist/Reformed) “John Gill on Isaiah 61:3: To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion,.... Or, "to the mourners of Zion" (u); such who are of Zion, belong to the church of God, and mourn for the corruptions in Zion's doctrines; for the perversion, abuse, and neglect of Zion's ordinances; for the disorders and divisions in Zion; for the declensions there, as to the exercise of grace, and the power of godliness; for the few instances of conversions there, or few additions to it; for the carelessness, ease, and lukewarmness of many professors in Zion; and for their unbecoming lives and conversations. Now one part of”
- 2 Corinthians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on 2 Corinthians 1:4: Who comforteth us - Who shows himself to be the God of tender mercy, by condescending to notice us, who have never deserved any good at his hand; and also the God of all consolation, by comforting us in all our tribulation - never leaving us a prey to anxiety, carking care, persecution, or temptation; but, by the comforts of his Spirit, bearing us up in, through, and above, all our trials and difficulties. That we may be able to comfort them - Even spiritual comforts are not given us for our use alone; they, like all the gifts of God, are given that they may b”