I really don’t like the new word. It is a fairly recent innovation to translate 2 Corinthians 1:4 as “consolation”. It sounds like consolation prize–something we give to losers to make them feel better. Earlier translations were closer to the original thought. They used the word “comfort”. “He comforts us in all our afflictions, that we may comfort others.” It means to strengthen or undergird. It is a cognate (form) of the word Jesus used for the Holy Spirit. Comforter is paraclete–0ne called alongside for the purpose of assistance. When we are in trouble, God “calls out” whatever forces are necessary to insure our ability to meet the demands and duties of life in Him. It is encouraging to consider the “alarms bells” of heaven sounding out when one of His children is in need of assistance. He doesn’t criticize us, He sends help! God accepts the responsiblity to provide all that we need for life and godliness, even in times of trouble. What a comforting thought!
