Let’s Talk: Compassion
“For the Lord will not cast off forever, but though He cause grief, He will have compassion according to the abundance of His steadfast love; for He does not afflict from His heart or grieve the children of men.” — Lamentations 3:31-33
This June, my devotional has focused on the theme of sorrow. I found it intriguing because, at the time, I wasn’t personally experiencing grief. However, as I read Lamentations 3:31-33, the verses resonated deeply, and soon after, I was confronted with the pain and suffering of those around me. A friend faced the unexpected loss of her father, my cousin’s sister was rushed to the hospital, and a girl from my church was also dealing with loss.
It became clear why God had me reflecting on these verses about sorrow. As believers, we often think we should be exempt from suffering. The pain of losing a loved one can be overwhelming, and it can either draw us closer to God or push us away as we struggle to understand why He would allow such suffering.
I’ve experienced loss, but never of someone extremely close to me. With all these events unfolding, I found myself wrestling internally, questioning, “Lord, how do I comfort those You’ve placed on my heart?” My instinct was to offer Bible verses and words of encouragement, but I had to pause and reflect. The Holy Spirit nudged me, saying, “Sometimes, God may give you a word of comfort, but other times, He may call you to words of lament.”
Ecclesiastes 3 discusses the various seasons ordained by God, including a time to weep and mourn. We often rush through the sad seasons, yearning for happiness. But what if we embraced the seasons of sorrow as we do the joyful ones? Nothing is wasted with God, and even our suffering has purpose.
Have you considered that your pain could be an opportunity for God to display His perfect compassion?
Think about Jesus. Despite being the Son of God—spotless and perfect—He experienced profound sorrow. His suffering was not in vain; it was a powerful act of love that created a path for us to be reconciled with God. Where sin once separated us, Jesus’ sorrow bridged the gap, showing a compassion beyond our understanding. If that isn’t compassion, I don’t know what is.
If you’re experiencing sorrow or loss, my heart goes out to you. Know that God’s compassion and love for you have not waned. As David says in Psalm 30:5, “For His anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” In Christ, His favor lasts for eternity, so even when our earthly journey ends, His favor continues.
I urge you to submit to God during your time of mourning. Don’t rush through it or pretend it doesn’t exist. Remember Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:38-39). If Jesus needed to have a heartfelt moment with God the Father, so can you. I pray that His compassion envelops you in your sorrow and His steadfast love covers you.
For those not currently experiencing grief but who know someone who is, let this be an encouragement. You don’t need the perfect words to offer comfort. Instead, ask the Lord, “How can I show Your compassion today?” Trust that He will guide you in being a source of support in whatever way you need to be.
May God’s compassion meet you wherever you are, and may His steadfast love be a constant source of strength and comfort.
