How can we show compassion instead of persecution, as Job 19:22 suggests? Job 19:22—A Call to Compassion “Why do you persecute me as God does? Will you never get enough of my flesh?” (Job 19:22) Job’s words expose two common sins: piling on criticism when someone is already down and treating a sufferer as though they deserve what they are enduring. Scripture calls us to do the opposite—extend compassionate presence. Seeing the Person, Not the Problem • Every sufferer bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27). • Christ identified with the afflicted: “I was sick and you visited Me” (Matthew 25:36). • When we remember whose likeness each person carries, we respond with honor, not harshness. Listening with Heart • “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak” (James 1:19). • Allow the hurting one to tell the whole story without interruption. • Reflect back what you hear—“I hear how heavy this feels”—instead of offering immediate fixes. Guarding Our Words • “The tongue has the power of life and death” (Proverbs 18:21). • Avoid theological speculation that blames: Job’s friends insisted hidden sin caused his pain; God rebuked them (Job 42:7). • Offer words that build up: “Let everything you say be good and helpful” (Ephesians 4:29). Carrying Burdens Together • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). Practical helps: – Bring a meal, run errands, watch children. – Sit in silence when words fail—presence preaches louder than speeches. – Share Scripture promises softly, not as lectures but as gentle reminders. Choosing Mercy over Judgment • “Mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13). • God alone sees the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Leave hidden matters to Him and extend grace instead. • “Do not repay evil with evil… but conquer evil with good” (Romans 12:17, 21). Staying Patient for the Long Haul • Suffering often outlasts our attention span. Commit to check in weeks and months later. • Paul commends “patient endurance” (2 Corinthians 1:6). Our ongoing support mirrors God’s steadfast love. Reflecting Christ’s Compassion • “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12). • Christ “did not break a bruised reed” (Isaiah 42:3; fulfilled in Matthew 12:20). • When we handle wounded souls tenderly, we demonstrate the gospel they need to see. In every encounter, remember Job’s plea. Refuse to add to another’s pain; instead, embody the compassionate heart of our Savior who was “moved with compassion” (Matthew 9:36) and calls us to do likewise. |
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