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COMPASSIONATE – 02/18/19

By February 18, 2019Daily Devotionals

COMPASSIONATE
February 18, 2019

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for reminding me to watch my heart for from it flows all the important issues of life. I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scripture: Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another, be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8 NIV

As I read and reread this verse, I thought about the vastness of this command. The Revised Standard Version uses the word “tenderhearted” in place of “compassionate.” I have had the unfortunate experience of being in the company of those whose hearts have been hardened, whose sympathy and compassion has been replaced with indifference.

No matter what our profession: doctor, lawyer, educator, manager, whatever the job title, we are all subject to turning off our emotions. We are afraid to “get too close,” for “fear of hurt or heartbreak.” We can be turned cold, going from years of “service” to just another day at school or perhaps even another “dreadful” day at school. This is a dangerous mindset. Patients, clients, and students fall victim, often harmed by a person they were counting on for care.

We must choose to remain compassionate. We must fight to keep our hearts tender. Consider circumstances that could harden your heart as an educator. What are some “symptoms” you need to watch for if you are at risk of losing your compassion?

Copyright Kathy Branzell.  Email [email protected]

One Comment

  • TS says:

    Thank you for sharing this post. I was challenged and encouraged after reading this. I pray my heart will remain compassionate, not only as an educator but wherever I go, home, church and in the community. Thank you again for sharing this post.