Scripture:
The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.
– Psalm 116:5 (NASB)
Are you gracious? Are you compassionate? It is easy if you decide a person or situation warrants it. Grace, by definition, is receiving what is not deserved. Therefore, grace is only present when someone IS undeserving. How often do we rush to play judge and jury? Humbly acknowledging our own sin is the first step toward reflecting God’s grace. Ask the Lord to soften your heart so you may be sensitive to those who are hurting and in need of grace, especially if you are resistant to doing so. When you lift others up to the Father in prayer, ask Him first to cover your heart with compassion.
Prayer:
Father God, we want our hearts to be like Yours, full of endless love. Give us hearts of grace and compassion, in as much as you have extended it to us. Help us be humble and grateful for all You have done for us, that is undeserved. When we lift others to you in prayer, allow us to have empathy for their pain, especially when we have become hardened. A compassionate heart is what we desire.