Compassion: What It's Not and What It Is

Compassion is defined as “sympathy for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.” 

Unbelievers often link compassion with acceptance and approval, but biblical compassion is based on God's love, not worldly love. For example, when a loved one is involved in a sinful lifestyle, we don't show compassion by remaining silent or approving of what they do.

In those cases, we show compassion by helping them understand their sin and helping them seek God's forgiveness. Godly compassion is linked to His mercy on those who repent: 

“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:7 

So biblical compassion isn't comforting people in their sins, but it is comforting them in their sorrows: 

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Romans 12:15 

We may not fully understand another person's pain if we haven't experienced it ourselves. But we can still listen to them, pray for them, keep in touch with them, and show them we care in tangible ways. 

Are you facing a difficulty? Seek out a compassionate friend to share your struggle.

Is someone in your life suffering or facing challenges? Ask God how you can show them biblical compassion. 

For additional one-minute insights:

3 Ways to Comfort a Friend 

Think Inside the Box

The Comfort of the Psalms

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