How important is it to practice compassion?
BIBLE READING: Mark 5:21-43
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Jesus ignored their comments and said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid. Just trust me.” (Mark 5:36)
Jesus Demonstrated Compassion.
Jesus not only demonstrated great power; he also showed tremendous compassion. Jesus’ power over nature, evil spirits, and death was motivated by compassion-for a demon-possessed man who lived among tombs, for a diseased woman, and for the family of a dead girl. The rabbis of the day considered such people unclean. Polite society avoided them. But Jesus reached out and helped anyone in need.
BIBLE READING: Mark 2:1-12
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My son, your sins are forgiven.” (Mark 2:5)
Jesus Responded to Compassion In Others.
The paralytic’s need moved his friends to action, and they brought him to Jesus. When you recognize someone’s need, do you act? Many people have physical and spiritual needs you can meet, either by yourself or with others who are also concerned. Human need moved these four men; let it also move you to compassionate action.
BIBLE READING: Job 6:1-30
KEY BIBLE VERSE: One should be kind to a fainting friend, but you have accused me without the slightest fear of the Almighty. (Job 6:14)
Compassion Goes Beyond Words.
Job said that Eliphaz’s advice was like eating the tasteless white of an egg. When people are going through severe trials, ill-advised counsel is distasteful. They may listen politely, but inside they are upset. Be slow to give advice to those who are hurting. They often need compassion more than they need advice.
BIBLE READING: Lamentations 3:1-66
KEY BIBLE VERSE: The unfailing love of the L ORD never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction. (Lamentations 3:22)
God Is Compassionate.
Jeremiah saw one ray of hope in all the sin and sorrow surrounding him: “The unfailing love of the Lord never ends! By his mercies we have been kept from complete destruction.” God willingly responds with help when we ask. Perhaps there is some sin in your life that you thought God would not forgive. God’s steadfast love and mercy are greater than any sin, and he promises forgiveness.