In what ways can we express godly sorrow for others' sins, as in Jeremiah 48:31? The Voice of Compassion in Jeremiah 48:31 “Therefore I wail over Moab; I will cry out for all Moab; I will moan for the men of Kir-heres.” Jeremiah does more than announce judgment—he sorrows over the very people whose rebellion demands it. His example shows that godly sorrow is active, vocal, and rooted in genuine love. Hallmarks of True Godly Sorrow • Centered on God’s holiness and the offense of sin against Him (Psalm 51:4) • Flows from love for the sinner’s eternal good (Romans 9:2–3) • Moves us toward intercession and redemptive action, not detached criticism (Ezekiel 22:30) • Remains hopeful, trusting God’s readiness to forgive (2 Peter 3:9) Practical Ways to Express Godly Sorrow for Others’ Sins • Earnest Intercession – Daniel models this by confessing national sin as though it were his own (Daniel 9:3–19). – “Far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for you.” (1 Samuel 12:23) • Visible Lament – Tears, fasting, or silence can communicate grief (Joel 2:12–17; Psalm 119:136). – Jesus wept over Jerusalem’s unbelief (Luke 19:41). • Gentle Confrontation – “Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.” (Galatians 6:1) – Nathan’s parable to David (2 Samuel 12:1–7) shows truth wrapped in compassion. • Corporate Confession – Nehemiah led nationwide repentance, identifying with the people’s failures (Nehemiah 1:6–7; 9:1–3). – Public acknowledgment teaches others the seriousness of sin and the mercy of God. • Personal Holiness – Live as a counter-example, “shining as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15). – Our obedience underscores the call to repentance (1 Peter 2:12). • Sacrificial Service – Meet practical needs that sin has created—addiction recovery help, mediation in broken families, support for the oppressed (Isaiah 58:6–7). – Demonstrates the gospel’s power to heal. Guardrails Against Counterfeit Sorrow • Avoid self-righteous judgment (Luke 18:11–14). • Resist despair that doubts God’s grace (Lamentations 3:21–23). • Reject passive indifference masked as “leaving it to God” (James 2:15–16). Encouragement to Continue “Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.” (Psalm 126:5) Persevering in godly sorrow prepares the ground for eventual harvest—repentance, restoration, and renewed glory to God. |
    |