Scripture:
“Should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh? Jonah 4:11 (NIV)
Devotion:
Jonah struggled to accept God’s mercy toward the people of Nineveh. He had delivered god’s message, but his heart wasn’t aligned with God’s heart. He wanted judgement, but God offered compassion. Jonah forgot that, “The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.” (Psalm 145:8 NIV)
I remember a time when someone close to me deeply hurt me with their words. Everything in me wanted to withdraw, to justify my anger and distance. But as I prayed, God reminded me of how may times I had needed grace – and how freely He gave it. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32 NIV). Slowly, I reached out, not with a long speech, but with a simple act of kindness. Over time, our relationship began to heal. That was compassion in action – uncomfortable, undeserved, but deeply transformative.
As wives we are often the emotional anchor in our homes. Whether it’s responding patiently to a tired husband, comforting a hurting child, or extending grace to someone who has offended us, our ability to reflect God’s heart can change the atmosphere around us. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8 NIV).
Reflection:
Who do you find it hard to show compassion to? Is it someone in your family, a co-worker, a friend who betrayed your trust? Ask God to help you see them through His eyes, and pray for the courage to respond with grace.
Practical Ways to Show Compassion Today:
- Listen without interrupting when your husband or child is speaking. “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:9 NIV).
- Send a message of encouragement to someone who is struggling. “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25 NIV).
- Forgive someone who hasn’t apologized, and release the burden to God. “Bear with each other and forgive one another…Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13 NIV).
- Offer help to someone who may be overwhelmed and overlooked. “Carry each other’s burden, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2 NIV).
- Pray for those who’ve hurt you, asking God to bless and heal them. “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44 NIV).
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, soften my heart to show compassion , especially when it feels undeserved or difficult. Help me not to be like Jonah, stuck in judgement, but to reflect Your mercy and grace. Teach me to see others as You see them – with love, hope, and potential. In moments of irritation or pain, remind me that Your compassion reached me first. Let my home and heart be a place where your kindness flows freely. I pray in Jesus’ name amen.
We’d love to hear from you:
Have you ever found it hard to show compassion? What helped you through it? Share your thoughts or stories in the comments below – your journey might be the encouragement someone else needs today.
With grace and love
Sylvia Banks-Claire
Faith/Marriage/Purpose