Joni Eareckson Tada dedicated her life to the Lord when she was 15 years old, but just two short years later, she would understand what that truly meant. In the summer of 1967, her life was changed in an instant when a dive into shallow water broke her neck, leaving her quadriplegic at just seventeen years old. The time that followed was filled with anger and resentment toward God while constantly questioning Him, Why God?. Joni could have chosen to remain angry with God and her circumstances. She was at the prime of her life, headed to college full of hopes and dreams that were now shattered. But in her desperate questioning, God answered Joni by surrounding her with His presence and His comfort. God had a plan for her life that would only come to pass because of her full surrender to Him. Later, her testimony would be filled with examples of comfort for others. Joni once said... I could not imagine how God would use my life to bring hope through hardship to suffering people around the world. But, as I learned, God sometimes permits what he hates to accomplish what he loves…²

The will of God for us is not to suffer, which is what happens when we choose to wallow in our hurt or circumstances. He knew we would have troubles on this earth and His hope is that in the same way He comforts us, we will also comfort others. For over 45 years, Joni has lived out 2 Corinthians 1:4â€"comforting others in the way that God comforted her.

How have you seen the comforting hand of God in your life? How can your story comfort others?

Suggested prayer: Dear Father God, too many times have I questioned my situation without seeing what your plan for me truly is. Give me the opportunity to be more like you and use what you have taught me to show comfort to others who may be going through similar circumstances. Use me, Lord. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

1.    2 Corinthians 1:3-4.

2.    Joni’s Story on: joniandfriends.org

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.