"Roadblocks to Compassion" July 8, 2022
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32
Sometimes it’s hard to think of others before we think of ourselves. Most of us would like to have a humble attitude and be able to have the heart of Christ when it comes to dealing with other people. This seems to be the spiritual challenge of everyday life.
It’s impossible to be annoyed and compassionate at the same time. Frustration, suspicion, irritation, bitterness, dislike, and anger are all signs that we may be looking at others without compassion. “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath, anger, clamor, and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:29-32).
The truth is, “the deceiver” doesn’t want us to be like Jesus. He doesn’t want us to have a heart of compassion. God is ready and willing to help us combat our selfish prideful attitudes each day. Ask Him to give you a loving heart of compassion. It’s a good prayer! It’s a powerful tool! He is faithful.
Ask God to help you “be kind and tenderhearted” (Ephesians 4:32). Begin today by having compassion for someone in need.