“Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” 1 Peter 3:8

The book of Job 14:1 states that “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.”  He spoke to the brevity of man’s life and the origin of sin that complicates our physical condition. He knew that God is sovereign and that our only true hope lies in His amazing grace and mercy.

Whether spiritual or physical we can bring all of our cares to the Lord. He orders our footsteps and every circumstance has a meaning for our spiritual growth and development. God has so lovingly created us to live holy lives in fellowship with Him and with our fellowman.

The Holy Spirit is our parakletos or comforter. He dwells within every born again believers to guide, console and give us peace and hope beyond our greatest understanding. In doing so we learn to give grace for grace, the same grace that we receive we also give it to others. We become extensions of God’s love that is shed abroad in our hearts. “And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:3.

We are all going through something in life and have endured experiences that have hit hard to the core. I am always reminded that we are all unified as one. We live, breathe, express joy and grief regardless to our social, economic or racial status. God has given us compassionate hearts to love and encourage one another. “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” 1 Peter 3:8

We are admonished all throughout the scriptures to comfort and uplift one another. God is love and we are a product of His loving nature. When a brother or sister needs encouragement and a listening ear; it is many times an inspiring word that can brighten the darkest of hours. God has a way of sending a message to our hearts through others just when we need it the most.

Let’s us strive to be that compassionate ear when someone needs a shoulder to lean on. The Holy Spirit will guide us in what to say, how to say it and what to do at just the right moment. “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:” 2 Corinthians 9:8. We are reminded to do good to others; God will always provide the means to receive what we need to walk this journey of life and accomplish His divine will.

After we listen to the cares and concerns of another, our next recourse should be prayer. Intercessory prayer is another expression of God’s love. If we truly love people, we will desire for them far more than it is within our power to give. “A jewel is a godly friend; nothing is more powerful than a loyal, faithful friend who will pray for you.” Unknown

May God give you peace, strength and joy all throughout this day.