- What comforts you when you’re feeling sad, scared, or anxious? (Answers will vary but may include praying, talking to a friend, listening to music, etc.)
- How do you comfort others? (Answers will vary.)
People turn to all kinds of things for comfort or happiness. Praying, talking to a friend or relative, playing with a pet, journaling, or going for a walk are all great ways to experience comfort and happiness. Sometimes, people turn to other things for joy or comfort—things that aren’t so good for them. Abusing drugs or alcohol, lashing out at others, or trying to numb the pain aren’t healthy ways to receive comfort.
- Can you think of some dumb things people might do to feel better about their problems while seeking a little happiness or comfort? (Students may suggest “big” things like illicit sex or drug use. Remind them that “little” things, like spending all day in front of a screen or lashing out at your family because you feel lousy, can also be unhealthy ways of coping with problems.)
All of us have problems at times, and all of us want to feel better. But there are good and bad ways to cope with things. Let’s look at what worked for the people of Israel in the Book of Nehemiah.
