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When we see someone struggling, and in need, it is natural for us to want to help them in any way we can. We want to co-suffer to try to make their burden a little lighter. However, what about demonstrating compassion to someone who is being disagreeable,  difficult to communicate with, or to “get along with.” What if you suddenly find yourself in a heated conversation with a person and you feel you are being treated unfairly. Does compassion still play a role? I would answer an emphatic “yes.” 

Recently at work, there was an episode when a patient was offended at a policy we needed to enforce during COVID-19. During our discussion, I was suddenly reminded of God’s compassion. At that point, I looked into her eyes and time stopped for a moment as I saw a history of hurt and anger. I felt God was reminding me of my commitment to compassion. And I actually believe God’s love touched her at that moment and He was looking into her eyes, not just me. I felt calmer, sad about the situation but accepted her decision to not continue being treated. I felt badly about this situation and prayed for her. The next day, she actually contacted me as she wanted to return to be treated by us. I believe God honored the situation and has given us the opportunity to continue to care for her: not just her rehabilitation needs, but hopefully in other ways which will bless her. 

Do you think this is one of the ways that God works when we read His Word and commit to apply it to our everyday lives and situations? I believe when we do the right thing in God’s eyes, then the right thing happens.  God is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love and faithfulness. It is also right for us to treat others that way, even in difficult conversations. 

Consider how often God mentions compassion and mercy as well as being slow to anger, abounding in love and abounding in faithfulness in His Word. Below are some of these verses: 

And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” Exodus 34:6

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.”  Psalm 103:8

“The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.” Psalm 145:8

“Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity.” Joel 2:13

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12

The next time you find yourself in the middle of a difficult conversation, take a moment to look at the person through God’s eyes and with His compassion. 

May God richly bless you, your family and your workplace during COVID-19, and always.

Bonny, Christian Women at Work

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