A soldier can quickly describe the first few weeks of training.  There are long days and sleepless nights.  Orders come from superiors that must be obeyed whether they make sense or not.  Some commands can be very degrading, humiliating or frustrating.  Everything is, “yes sir” or “yes ma’am” and the word “no” is not an option.  A soldier is being broken in order to be trained and ready for big challenges.  Not only is he ready to meet all types of situations, he is also able to comfort others with a genuine heart of understanding.  That is one of the greatest services to God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

What a wonderful God we have—He is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the source of every mercy, and the One Who so wonderfully comforts and strengthens us in our hardships and trials.  And why does He do this?  So that when others are troubled, needing our sympathy and encouragement, we can pass on to them this same help and comfort God has given us.