Put On a Heart of Compassion

Colossians 3:12-13

Introduction

Compassion is one of those strange virtues that is increasingly preached even by the secular world yet decreasingly seen in any real sense.

But, as with all godly virtues, our queues cannot come from the world. We cannot run from a virtue because the world has hijacked it and its meaning.

Far from it, we ought to lean into such virtues and be the beacon that points to the brightest and truest form of every virtue.

What Is It?

The word compassion comes from Latin and means to “suffer with.” (Matt. 9:36).

We use the word passion very different from its origins.

This means that compassion is something aimed at someone suffering.

There is real feeling involved (Eph. 4:32).

There is a necessary downward focus (Matt. 18:27).

Compassion moves to relieve the suffering (Lk. 10:33).

Cautions

Pride kills compassion

Both on the part of the giver (Lk. 18:11).

And of the receiver (Gen. 4:6-8).

Untethered compassion is a curse to the recipient (1 Kings 21:4-7).

True compassion must keep a soft heart but a sharp mind.

The goal of compassion is to relieve the suffering, not simply support it.

Compassion keeps a constant eye on the eternal (Jn. 6:26-27).

We cannot carry the weight of the world (Ecc. 4:1-3).

Practiced Compassion

Be humbled by the compassion you have received (1 Tim. 1:15; Matt. 18:32-33).

Contemplate the gravity of eternity (2 Cor. 5:10).

Consider the suffering of sin (Heb. 4:15).

Let your heart be broken (Matt. 5:4).

Don’t expect a reward right now (Matt. 5:46-47).

Compassion is not cheap.

It cost Jesus everything.

Conclusion

You are all in need of compassion whether you know it or not.

We are not the source of true compassion, rather we are imperfect vessels.

Would you be such a vessel?