Theme: A Biblical Example of Waging Love
Weekend Music links on iTunes: Your Grace Is Enough - Chris Tomlin, Holding Nothing Back - Tim Hughes, From the Inside Out - Hillsong
Read: Matthew 13:14-17
Think: When listening to Pastor Ben on Saturday, he indicated that one of the ways we can show love towards one other is to sympathize. As it hung in the forefront of my mind, I wanted to understand the definition of sympathy. It is defined as “the fact or power of sharing the feelings of another, especially in sorrow or trouble; fellow feeling, compassion, or commiseration.”
This emotion is so important within a loving relationship. So why does it feel so hard to provide sometimes? While I wouldn’t go so far as to liken myself to the former Drill Sergeant turned counselor in the familiar insurance commercial, I am not always naturally the most sympathetic person. I tend to switch to more of a problem solver. I often begin to think in terms of, “What can we do to get you out of this situation” when listening, when really, offering sympathy was the desired action.
What are you doing today to really listen and sympathize with others in your life today?
Do: Embrace your power as a Christian; take the time to listen to those in your family, neighborhood and work. When you do, be sympathetic to the issues in their lives and demonstrate good listening and sympathy- this tells the person that you love and care for them.
Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you that you Wage Love into my heart to allow me to be me to be a better listener and to be more sympathetic in my daily walk. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
The eDevotional is written each week by a team of volunteers from Timberlake Church.