The distinguishing qualities of true spiritual comfort, as opposed to the fleeting joy of the hypocrite, are these: True consolation is real and solid; even when the believer’s sadness seems deep, his joy is deeper and more genuine. The hypocrite’s joy is only on the surface and quickly fades. True joy is rooted in the beauty and excellence of Christ Himself, not just in the experience of joy. The true Christian delights most in who Christ is, not merely in the benefits received. A hypocrite delights more in his own experience or supposed interest in Christ than in Christ Himself. True comfort usually comes along with, or after, genuine sorrow for sin. The hypocrite’s joy appears quickly and without repentance. If the hypocrite tries to mourn for sin, it takes away his joy, but the believer finds joy even in repentance and a softened heart. True comfort is hidden from those who are not born again. The world cannot understand or interfere with the spiritual joy of a true Christian. The comfort of the sincere Christian is deep and inexpressible, while the joy of the hypocrite and worldling is shallow and easily explained.

~ John Colquhoun

The Chestnut Mare