How can we emulate the compassion described in Psalm 72:13 in our lives? Rooted in Psalm 72:13 “He will take pity on the poor and needy and save the lives of the oppressed.” Seeing God’s Heart of Compassion • The verse pictures the King—ultimately fulfilled in Christ—actively moving toward the hurting. • Compassion here is more than sympathy; it is decisive action that rescues. • Isaiah 42:3 shows the same heart: “A bruised reed He will not break.” • Matthew 9:36 reveals Jesus embodying this: “When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them.” Why Compassion Matters • It reflects God’s character (Exodus 34:6). • It validates our faith (James 2:15-17). • It advances the gospel by displaying God’s kindness (Titus 3:4-5). How to Emulate Compassion Daily 1. Sensitize Your Eyes • Slow down and notice needs (Luke 10:33). • Ask the Spirit to open your eyes each morning. 2. Engage Your Heart • Keep short accounts with God so sin-hardness doesn’t dull empathy (Psalm 139:23-24). • Meditate on Christ’s mercy shown to you (Ephesians 2:4-5). 3. Open Your Hands • Give materially: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD” (Proverbs 19:17). • Serve personally—visit, call, mentor, cook, drive, listen. 4. Use Your Voice • Advocate for those without a platform (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Speak words that heal, not wound (Ephesians 4:29). 5. Invest Your Time • Schedule margin so you can respond spontaneously (Mark 6:34-37). • Commit to ongoing relationships rather than one-time gestures. 6. Share the Hope of Salvation • True compassion points people to the Deliverer who “saves the lives of the oppressed.” • Pair tangible help with the gospel (1 John 3:17-18). Guarding Against Compassion Fatigue • Rest in Christ’s strength (Matthew 11:28-30). • Serve within your God-given calling and limits (Romans 12:6-8). • Stay rooted in Scripture and prayer for renewal (Isaiah 40:31). Living Scripture Out Loud • Let Psalm 72:13 shape your calendar, budget, and conversations this week. • Expect God to multiply even small acts—five loaves still feed multitudes when placed in His hands (John 6:9-13). |