The Tender and Compassionate Heart

The Tender and Compassionate Heart From The Struggle of Sanctification by Sonya Johnson

The atmosphere of our world has rapidly evolved into one where most people possess hearts filled with self-seeking desires. Wealth and success are promoted by social influencers and in many churches through prosperity messages. Sadly, our focus is on the entertainment industry and the sports arena where billions of dollars are poured into by the people whose priorities are the pleasures of this world.

Historically, the great disparity between those “who have and those who have not” has always existed. We are familiar with the unfair but widely accepted divisions of social and economic status. In most countries, people are divided according to their financial status–upper and lower classes. Although America has three financial classes [upper, middle, and lower] people and is advanced in spaceflight, science, and biotechnology, we have the escalating and unresolved social issues of abject poverty and homelessness.

The topic of a country’s social issues usually involves a heated debate. Regardless of our political loyalty or religious affiliation, there are only two classes of people when addressing social issues: Those who actively help others, and those who ignore the plight of human beings struggling to live productive lives.

Most will agree that humanity has a dilemma that is fueled by our misguided priorities and the desires of our hearts. Yet, all is not hopeless. Our world may appear to be out of control, but this is still our Father’s world. God will not leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He is well aware of all that is happening, all that has happened, and all that will happen.

Even with the best human effort, our world has social issues that humanity cannot resolve. Divine Intervention is always available! God has people with tender and compassionate hearts who care about those who are trapped in the web of poverty and despair.

A few months ago, I had the privilege of meeting a woman who is affectionately known in our apartment complex as “The lady with the walker.” One day as we were chatting, Sue shared her story of becoming a missionary and her travels. Yes, I was surprised. Yet, I was very excited to hear the interesting details about her commitment to God and others. Her story is not one of an adventure movie. Let it be known that her missionary calling required a great sacrifice of separation from others during her consecration and preparation to do the will of God.

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17)

The lady with the walker still has a tender and compassionate heart. She bravely approached a tenant with extensive community contacts to network and help an elderly, homeless man living in the shopping center next to our complex, find housing. The love in Sue’s heart is the catalyst that propels her to continue her calling as a missionary and be an advocate for those who cannot help themselves.

“He has shown you, O man, what is good, And what does the LORD require of you, But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”– Micah 6:8

We have a responsibility given to us by God to help those in need. Having a tender and compassionate heart and the desire to help others demonstrates our love for God and others. The apostle Paul tells us that we are to imitate Christ in His humble interaction with others while on this earth. From a loving and humble heart flows love, compassion, and concern for others. God expects all of us to be like my friend, “The lady with the walker” who has a tender and compassionate heart.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus…” Philippians 2:3-4

Prayer: God, we ask You to reveal our purpose on this earth. Please direct us to those who we need to help. In Jesus’ name, Amen.