“Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” 1 Peter 3:8.

The words of a trusted loved one, friend, or even a stranger with good intent go a long way. Compassion is feeling the struggles of others during periods of suffering and wanting to alleviate that pain. 

When we feel sympathy, empathy, or understanding for others, we should be willing to take the time to stop and share a much-needed compassionate ear. This is a heartfelt willingness to just be present and listen. “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” 1 Peter 3:8.

The Book of Job 14:1 states that “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.” He spoke to the brevity of man’s life and to the origin of sin, which complicates our physical condition. Because we live in a fallen world,  things happen. Warranted or not, it is not the issue; it is having a heart that is willing to bear one another’s burdens when the load gets too heavy.

Our Comforter, the Holy Spirit, dwells within every born-again believer to guide, console, and give us peace and hope beyond our greatest understanding. He empowers us to give grace for grace, the same grace and comfort that we receive, we also give to others. We become extensions of God’s love that is shed abroad in our hearts. “And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:3. It’s an act of love.

We are all going through something in life and have endured experiences that have hit hard to the core. We live, breathe, express joy and grief regardless of our social, economic, or racial status. These experiences teach us empathy, or the ability to feel the pain of others. It’s extremely hard to walk a mile in another man’s shoes if you know no pain or joy. But God has given us compassionate hearts to love and encourage one another. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.“ Galatians 6:2. 

God is love, and we reflect His loving nature. When a brother or sister needs encouragement, a listening ear, an inspiring word, or a heartfelt, sincere prayer, it can brighten the darkest hours. God has a way of sending a message to our hearts, to give to others, just when they need it most.

Let us choose to be that compassionate ear when someone needs a shoulder to lean on. The Holy Spirit will guide us in what to say, how to say it, and what to do at just the right moment. “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:” 2 Corinthians 9:8.

My friends always do good and pray for others. If we truly love people, we will desire for them far more than what we can possibly give. “A jewel is a godly friend; nothing is more powerful than a loyal, faithful friend who will pray for you.” Unknown

May God grant us the peace, strength, and enduring compassion to lift up a fallen brother or sister along life’s way today, inspiring us to be true reflections of His love and steadfast support to those who need it most – one compassionate ear at a time!