To show compassion we need to recognise and understand other people’s emotions.  The Bible says, ‘Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.’ In other words, if someone is hurting, hurt with them, and if they’re happy, be happy for them. If a friend has bought a new car, or a colleague has just been promoted, we can either let ourselves become jealous and resentful or we can rejoice with them. Or if someone we know just lost a loved one and we don’t know what to say, we just need to be there for them. We can enter a part of the grieving process with them. Showing compassion goes beyond words. It’s about recognising the emotions of others, and then allowing ourselves to feel those emotions too. The Bible tells us about a time when Jesus’ friend died (you can read about this in John 11). When Jesus arrived at the scene, Lazarus had been dead for a few days and everyone was mourning. He knew He could raise Lazarus from the dead, and He did. But before that, we’re told that ‘Jesus wept’ (John 11:35 NIV). He allowed himself to enter into the emotions of those around Him. And that’s what we need to do too. Paul said: ‘Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves…clothe yourselves with tender-hearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience’ (Colossians 3:12 NLTUK). In our interactions with others, we need to be wearing all these things. If we’re frustrated with someone because of their struggles, or we’re impatient because of the things we’re personally going through, we can sometimes come across as insensitive. But we’re called to be gentle, kind, and patient with people. We’re called to walk alongside people, whatever they’re going through.

What Now?

Next time you meet with someone who is struggling, imagine what it must feel like to be in their situation and simply be there for them rather than trying to fix things for them.