Godly Compassion

As we open our hearts to minister to those around us, we soon
discover we live in an imperfect world full of sickness, heartache,
and frustrations. Many of us (many more than we realize) are facing
trials which are sometimes quite severe. When we are finally invited
into someone's private world and allowed to hear of their pain, it
can be difficult to know what to do or say.

As we grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus, we learn of His truths:
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all
circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). We understand and usually
have some actual experience with God's loving plan and purpose; "in
all things, God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans
8:28). But there are times when this type of advice - even this type
of truth - can be a little cold and fail to comfort or draw someone
closer to God.

While it's absolutely true that God will use our pain and suffering
for His glory, it may not be the first response someone needs to hear
when they enter a difficult trial; "There is a time for
everything...a time to be silent and a time to speak" (Ecclesiastes
3:1,7). We must learn to be more sensitive to the real need.

When Lazarus became very sick, Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus but
He did not come until after Lazarus died. Mary fell at Jesus' feet
and cried: "Lord if You had been here, my brother would not have
died" (John 11:32). At that moment, Jesus did NOT begin preaching
"Rejoice in the Lord always!" (Philippians 4:4). There would be
other opportunities for sermons, other opportunities to speak about
faith and trust, but this was a time for compassion.

John 11:33,35
"When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her
also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled...Jesus wept."

The Creator of the Universe wept! From the beginning of time, Jesus
knew He was going to raise Lazarus from the dead; He knew many lives
would soon be changed through this miracle. But "Jesus loved Martha
and her sister and Lazarus" (John 11:5). Though this pain and sorrow
was necessary in the context of God's sovereign plan, these were real
people who were grieving and Jesus took time to show He truly cared
and understood their pain.

The world is in great need of the healing power of Jesus Christ. Sin
has caused separation from God and left many lives in a mess. As we
minister through encouragement and the truth of God's Word, we are
called to do so while "speaking the truth in love" (Ephesians
4:15). But love does not exist outside of a relationship. And in a
loving relationship we will often best demonstrate God's truth by
listening and comforting with a Godly compassion.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

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Scripture references: The Holy Bible: New International Version.
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P.O. Box 190
Lorena, TX 76655
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