Kindness and Compassion

The Bible contains many stories about compassion - the restoration of Job's family and possessions, healing's of all descriptions, and even the raising of Lazarus from the dead. When you show compassion for someone you show pity and deep sympathy. God, has compassion on us. Were it not for God sending Jesus to die on a cross, we would be hopelessly lost and not know about His grace. As we (the children of God) are part of Him; we are the outward expressions of His Love. God wants His children to show compassion to others; believers and non-believers alike.

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." - Colossians 3:12

I recently had a friend that I met in the world on online gaming. He has emotional problems, and list of other disabilities. Without getting into to much detail I could tell from talking to him that he has had a life full of rejection, pain, and heartache. Being a christian man and representing myself as such I began to listen to his stories and answering his questions during the games we would play. I explained what believed in, and over the period of a couple of years he began to read his Bible and go to a local church when he could get out. He even changed some of the music he listened to. I listened to his stories and answered his questions because I knew what he was going through. I've been there. Granted I have not had the experiences he has had, but I still know how he felt.

"Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble." - 1 Peter 3:8

Do you have a friend who is going through some emotional trials right now? Let him/her know that you care for them and that you will gladly listen if they just need to talk. No judgment or advice need be given. When you are finished listening tell them that God Loves them and that you'll be praying for them. God wants us to Love the "unlovely".

Showing someone some compassion or kindness can go a long way. There are a lot of mean people in this world. We, as christians, need to be the light in the darkness.

Until next time...................

B