A Heart of Concern

Introduction

Luke 24:32 “And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?”

Ernest Hemingway once said,

“In our darkest moments, we don’t need advice.”

What we truly need is the power of human connection: a quiet presence, a gentle touch, or the smallest gesture that reminds us we’re not alone. These acts of love and solidarity become the anchors that hold us steady when life feels overwhelming. Pain is a deeply personal burden, and difficulties are uniquely ours to face - but your silent presence tells me I don’t have to face them in isolation. It’s a quiet reminder that, no matter how lost I feel, I am still worthy of love and connection. Sometimes, words aren’t necessary; your silent support speaks louder than anything else. Love, in its purest form, has the power to help us rediscover ourselves, even when we’ve forgotten who we are. Let’s remember the importance of simply being there for one another.

Our Biblical foundation for this subject may be found in the following Scriptures:

Philippians 2:4 “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

Galatians 6:2 “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”

We may also find many examples from our Saviour revealing His “Heart of Concern” for others in HIs teachings and His words. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and His weeping over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41-44).

I. Explanation of a “Heart of Concern.”

A “Heart of Concern” refers to an attitude and mindset that prioritizes empathy, compassion, and care for others. Our Saviour truly had a “Heart of Concern” for others. Jesus was deeply aware of the needs, struggles, and emotions of those around Him, and He responded to them with kindness and support. Allow me to give you give you some key aspects of this concept:

Empathy: A heart of concern is rooted in the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It involves putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes and recognizing their struggles. This emotional connection allows us to respond in ways that truly support and uplift them.

Compassion: Beyond empathy, a heart of concern compels us to take action. Compassion drives us to not only feel for others but to actively seek ways to alleviate their burdens. Whether through tangible help, emotional support, or simply being present, compassion transforms feelings into deeds.

Selflessness: A heart of concern is characterized by a willingness to prioritize the needs of others over our own. It challenges us to step outside of our comfort zones and consider how we can contribute to the well-being of those around us, whether they are family members, friends, colleagues, or even strangers.

Spiritual Foundation: A heart of concern is grounded in the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus gave us two commandments we must follow:

Mark 12:30–31 “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.”

II. Barriers to a “Heart of Concern.”

Self-Centeredness:

Philippians 2:3–4 “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”

Romans 8:8 “So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”

Fear of Involvement:

Romans 8:15 “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.”

2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

Cultural and Social Barriers: - Jesus solved this problem in John 4 with His conversation with the woman of Samaria.

III. Cultivating a “Heart of Concern.”

Praying in the Spirit

Ephesians 6:18 “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”

Prayer is the glue that holds everything together. The Christian’s power is secured by prayer. Prayer should be constant; the soul should be ever in a praying mood; and supplication, earnest entreaty, should be used in the special emergencies that occur in the battle of life. The Spirit is the author and element of the believer’s life in Christ. It is the Spirit who gives the grace and power to pray; He helps our infirmities and intercedes for us and in us.

Meditating on the words of God

Psalm 119:15 “I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.”

Biblical meditation is the contemplation, digestion, and spiritualization of the truth. The heart sanctified by the grace of God is the vessel in which those noble and profitable thoughts are distilled which are necessary to the spiritual life. If we would maintain our spiritual health we must meditate upon God’s words.

Serving Others

Galatians 5:13–14 “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.”

John 13:14 “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, a "Heart of  Concern" is about actively engaging with the world around us and making a conscious effort to care for others. It is by the power of Christ and with a heart of concern that Christians through the word of God and the guiding of the Holy Spirit can lead to transformative changes in individuals and communities alike.