The book of Job 14:1 gives us wonderful insight to the plight of man’s finite existence… “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 the origin of sin that complicates our physical condition. He knew that God is sovereign and that our only true hope lies in His amazing grace and mercy.

But as children of God…even though we fall into the valleys of life…be it spiritual or physical, what a blessing it is  to know that we can go to the Lord in prayer..the old spiritual hymn lyrics states…what a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear, what a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! “But thou, “O Lord, [art] a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.” psalm 86:15. He hears the cries of His children and will answer!

The Holy Spirit is the Comforter of our souls… He  consoles and gives us peace beyond our greatest imagination; and in so doing, we learn to give grace, compassion and tender mercies to others- my friends, we are extensions of God’s love. “Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”  2 Corinthians 1:4.

We are all going through something in life and have endured experiences that have hit hard to the core. I am always reminded that we are all one in the Spirit. we live, breathe, express joy and grief regardless to our social, economic or racial status. God has given us compassionate hearts to love and encourage one another. “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” 1 Peter 3:8

Yes…we are a extensions of His loving nature, when a brother or sister needs encouragement and a listening ear, it is often an inspiring word that can brighten the darkest of hours. God has a way of sending a message to our hearts through others just when we need it the most!

Let’s us strive 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. We are reminded that we are to :“Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2.

Always seek to do good toward others and God will graciouslly supply all that  we need to walk this journey of life, accomplishing  His divine will. And please don’t stop there, after listening  to the cares and concerns of another, take the time to go down in prayer on their behalf-.for if we truly love people, we will desire for them far more than it is within our power to give! “A jewel is a godly friend; nothing is more powerful than a loyal, faithful friend who will pray for you.” Unknown

May God give us the compassion, grace and mercy we need to extend to others!