show compassion

Zechariah 7:9  NLT

This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another.

My heart can get heavy.  It seems that every week I hear stories that tear at my heart as I hear about and often see the pain that people are going through.

There are times that I can understand what I hear because it is similar to something I might have been through or someone I know has been through.  Then there are times when I do not have a clue.  I might not even know what to say.

Take it another step when you hear things that leave you speechless or even in emotional pain.  As a person who likes to fix things this is that place where you are empty, or I am empty.  No words to share.  No suggestions for fixing it all.  No idea of what to do next.

That is when I have to lean on God and lead others to do the same.  Showing mercy is the easy part.  Keeping on is the tough part.  Is it always right to show kindness to others.

Jude 1:22  NLT

And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering.

Maybe you have been in one of those spots.  That is where you need a refill.  You need wisdom beyond what you have.  You need a pastor or a counselor yourself.

That is where I stop and warn you and me that we must make sure we allow God to fill us so that we can serve and share with others.  When we are empty, we have nothing to share.  That might be spiritually empty, emotionally empty or even empty of resources to share.

Even when it is mercy or compassion we must share, we must fill ourselves up from the best source, and that source is our compassionate and merciful God.  I want to share with others, and I believe I am called to love people like Jesus loved. 

But I have a limit.  Knowing my limit is an important thing.  I will allow myself to be fueled so that I can speak up for others and show mercy as often as possible!

Proverbs 31:8   NLT

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.