We Stand Together ... to Survive
The Action of Compassion and Empathy
Consider the following passages:
Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind, 1 Peter 3:8. We need to share the same passions. Our craving to be like our Savior and Father should imprint on us a mutuality of concern for one another because of our common fervency for God’s redemptive rule. To get through, we have to stand together!
Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body,” Hebrews 13:3.
Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor, 1 Corinthians 10:24.
If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together, 1 Corinthians 12:26.
The Challenge of Compassion
Empathy is not always easy. When our troubles weigh us down, it can be tempting to turn inward and focus only on ourselves. Thoughts like, “I have enough problems of my own” or “What can I really do to help?” can keep us from stepping into another person’s pain. Worse still, there is sometimes a tendency to distance ourselves from those suffering because we believe their hardships are self-inflicted. But true compassion does not judge—it simply loves.
A Biblical Example: Job’s Friends
The story of Job is one of extreme loss and suffering. When his friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, heard of his suffering, they came to him. Their initial response was not to offer explanations or solutions but to be present. They wept with him. They sat beside him silently for seven days and nights, recognizing that his sorrow was too deep for words (Job 2:11-13).
There is a powerful lesson here: sometimes, the best way to comfort someone is simply to be there. In moments of great sorrow, words can feel empty, but presence speaks volumes. A listening ear, a shared silence, or a compassionate embrace can bring more healing than any well-intended advice ever could.
Living Out Compassion
The Bible is full of examples of empathy and kindness. David, in Psalm 35:13-14, describes how he mourned for others as if they were his own family, showing that true love for others is not selective. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) is another example, demonstrating selfless compassion even for a stranger in need. Jesus Himself embodied perfect empathy, as seen when He wept at the tomb of His friend Lazarus (John 11:33-36).
Compassion is not just a feeling—it is an action. It requires us to step into another’s pain, make their struggles our own, and offer comfort, even when it is inconvenient. It reflects God’s love in us, and through it, we become His hands and feet to those who are hurting.
The Ripple Effect of Empathy
When we extend true compassion, the impact is profound:
For the Giver – Walking with others in their suffering humbles us and reminds us of our dependence on God. It fosters gratitude for His sustaining grace and helps us see beyond our struggles.
For the Receiver – A shared burden feels lighter. Knowing that someone cares can bring hope and healing in the midst of pain.
For the Church and the World – The world takes notice when Christians genuinely love and care for one another. Jesus said that love would be the defining mark of His followers (John 13:35). When people see Christians rejoicing with those who rejoice and weeping with those who weep, it is a testimony of God’s love at work.
A Call to Action
Who in your life is hurting right now? Is there someone who needs a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply your presence? Maybe it's a grieving friend, a struggling coworker, or even a stranger needing kindness. Take a moment today to step outside of yourself and enter into their world.
Empathy is a language that everyone understands. It transcends words and speaks directly to the heart. As we choose to love deeply, to share in both joys and sorrows and to bear one another’s burdens, we become living reflections of God’s grace.
May we be known not just for what we believe but for how we love. We stand together … to survive.
[1] Garrett, Linda. “Love Divided Against Itself?” Bible Study Magazine. Page 6. Volume 9, No. 5, July/August 2017.