Reading the news, watching the world condition, life can cause anxiety and distress.
I’m a hugger. Not those little pat on the back kind of hugs. I like to embrace someone and let them know they are loved. Jesus called it being moved with compassion.
“And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.” Matthew 14:14 KJV
These words following are the writing of the Apostle Paul. He ministered to so many people. Some hated him fiercely and others were drawn to him and his message. Feel his compassion.
“Don’t be hateful to people, just because they are hateful to you. Rather, be good to each other and to everyone else.16 Always be joyful 17 and never stop praying. 18 Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do.19 Don’t turn away God’s Spirit 20 or ignore prophecies. 21 Put everything to the test. Accept what is good 22 and don’t have anything to do with evil. 23 I pray that God, who gives peace, will make you completely holy. And may your spirit, soul, and body be kept healthy and faultless until our Lord Jesus Christ returns. 24 The one who chose you can be trusted, and he will do this.” I Thessalonians 5:15-24 CEV
Through these words the Lord is calling us to reach out to others. Embrace them with His love and goodness. Speak words of encouragement, pray for them, lend a hand.
“Do your best to improve your faith by adding goodness, understanding, self-control, patience, devotion to God, concern for others, and love. If you keep growing in this way, it will show that what you know about our Lord Jesus Christ has made your lives useful and meaningful.” II Peter 1:5-8 CEV
The One who chose you can be trusted! Amen!