Tender-hearted: Showing Mercy and Compassion to Others

A tender heart not only notices the hurt in others but moves to help. This article looks at God's example of compassion, how Jesus responded to people in need, and what it costs us to love with mercy and kindness.

God's Example of Compassion

The Good Samaritan did not just see the need; he responded. His sacrifice cost time and money, crossed cultural barriers and was inconvenient, possibly even jeopardising his own safety as he used his donkey to transport the injured man (Lk 10:25-37). In the same way, God has compassion on His children, gently leading them, especially those requiring special care (Ps 103:13; Isa 40:11).

The Bible instructs us to be compassionate, humble and loving: considering others as if we were in their situation, doing to them as we would have them do to us, and looking beyond our own needs to those who are worse off (Lk 6:31; Rom 15:1-2; Gal 6:2; Heb 13:1-3; 1 Pet 3:8). Just as God is compassionate to us, we are to extend this same virtue to others (2 Cor 1:3-4; Eph 4:32).

What Would Jesus Do?

In the challenging situations of life, we need to ask 'what would Jesus do to show the love of God to this person?' Then, as appropriate, because we are His representatives, we should minister His presence and power where needed (Mk 16:17-18). It is not our right to judge others for the predicaments they are in, and even suggesting possible solutions is not always helpful. Instead we are to encourage and support them, lifting them up emotionally and practically.

Imagine yourself in another person's situation – 'There, but for the grace of God, go I'

In each inter-personal situation respond with a tender attitude – even when we must be firm and not allow any compromise with sin. Always act in the most loving and beneficial way for the other person. When administering Godly discipline, this should hurt us as much as the recipient.

Jesus said that whatever we do for any of our fellow Christians we are in effect doing to Him – there is no distinction or favouritism as to who the recipient is. Living out the gospel in a practical manner, by assisting those in need, is a key aspect of Christianity (Mt 25:34-46; Jas 1:27, 2:15-16). David prayed, "Lord do not withhold your mercy from me", nor should we hold back from showing love and help to those who need it (Ps 40:11).

Jesus was "touched with the feelings of our infirmities", and He responded by dying in our place; without this we would be doomed to a lost eternity. We should therefore do all we can to point others to Jesus, so that they too will choose Him and escape the consequences of their sin (Heb 4:15).

Acting with compassion comes at a cost

Reflection and Application

Ask 'What would Jesus do?' before responding to someone in need.
Put yourself in the other person's place before judging or advising.
Offer practical help, not just kind words.
When correction is necessary, give it tenderly and lovingly.