Tuesday, January 29, 2013

January 29 – Endure and Receive Compassion

We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.  James 5:11  

When you consider the prophets in the Old Testament and saints like Job who went through so much distress and strife in their lives—enduring hardships in obedience to the Lord. What great examples they are for us! There are people all through the ages that have endured persecution—even today. We have it so good here in the United States where we can freely worship the Lord—any day. The Lord Jesus was compassionate to people in Palestine, and throughout the ages He has shown mercy to those who have been witnesses for Him.

Other than people thinking that I’m a goody two shoes I’ve not felt much persecution in my life. Oh sure, I wasn’t popular in grade school or high school, but compassion isn’t about popularity. Times of distress and strife in my life have been centered around loosing loved ones in untimely situations. Friends and fellow Christians came to my aid—to comfort me and give me strength to endure the stress that ensued. 

Training Tip – Share with your children a time when someone showed compassion to you during a difficult time in your life. You could also share with them how you have shown the compassion of Christ, being the hands of God, to someone else. Tell them how that made you feel. Encourage them to be there for their friends when circumstances are difficult.

Lord – Grant us the grace to see ways we can be compassionate to others around us. 

Happy Birthday, Auntie Merc!

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.
© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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