We are all capable of showing some form of sympathy no matter how small or great, this is essentially what makes us human. Although we aren’t in any way obligated to be compassionate toward others, our ability to express genuine concern when it counts is what truly defines our character.
Compassion is most certainly one of the many spiritual gifts since it goes far beyond mere sympathy and is felt much deeper by certain individuals who are a lot more motivated to express it to those in need.
What Is Compassion?
Compassion is being aware of and showing sincere concern for the feelings and thoughts of other people, regardless of who they are, and most importantly without expecting anything in return.
The old testament teaches us to love our friends and enemies alike and be kind to them just as our Heavenly Father is kind and merciful to the righteous and wicked.
The Characteristics Of A Compassionate Person
Compassion is a special gift of the spirit because not everyone feels inclined to show empathy and compassion to people around them who are experiencing some kind of challenge be it physically or emotionally.
1. Understanding That No One Is Perfect
One of the major aspects of being compassionate is realizing that everyone has flaws. Being compassionate means having some level of understanding when people who have wronged you show remorse.
2. Empathy
Compassionate people are able to share and understand the feelings of others. The ability to put themselves in another person’s position makes them able to respond appropriately to any and all circumstances they find themselves in.
3. Not being Afraid To Show Emotions
A person with the spirit of compassion isn’t afraid to express sympathy since they are less concerned about what others think about them and more concerned about the act of showing kindness to someone in need.
4. Going The Extra Mile To Put A Smile On Someone’s Face
The truth is that most people will only do whatever little they can when it comes to helping someone out, and give up when things appear bleak.
This is what separates them from people blessed with the spiritual gift of compassion since they are less likely to be hindered by difficulty and will do their absolute best to bring joy and show God’s mercy to others.
5. Kindness
The Lord teaches us to show love and speak kindly not just to our family members and loved ones, but to everyone. These words of knowledge have been carried across the world and passed down for ages throughout church history, and as Christians, we must do our best to abide by this divine gospel.
Although people who possess the spiritual gift of compassion tend to be overly sensitive and feel emotional pain more deeply, it doesn’t deter them from seeing the good in people.
How To Put Your Spiritual Gifts Of Love And Compassion to Work
The divine gift of compassion enables anyone who possesses it to cheerfully be of assistance to people around them who might be suffering or in need of encouragement.
People who truly have this spiritual gift are incapable of hesitating when they see someone struggling. Rather than deliberating, they spring into action thanks to their confidence and natural desire to help which stems from their motivational gifts.
Here are a few ways to put your compassion to use, both in and outside the church.
1. Don’t Hesitate To Let the Holy Spirit Work Through You
Questions like – maybe someone else will eventually step in to help or am I in the right position to help? Shouldn’t be in your vocabulary. Rather than overthinking, be ready to take action which can either be in the form of words of reassurance and kindness or physical acts that can help alleviate the distress of people in need of help.
2. Respect Other People’s Feelings and Opinions
The foreword of compassion is the ability to regard other people’s feelings and accord them the utmost respect. Even while helping others, it’s important to not let your insecurities influence the way you go about it. Instead, be compassionate to the same degree with everyone regardless of circumstance.
3. Try Not To Judge
It’s easy to judge a person going through an unfamiliar situation. Most of the time, people who do so don’t recognize the impacts it could have on the other party.
As believers who have accepted Jesus Christ into our hearts and lives, it’s essential to live in accordance with his teachings and refuse to be bound by our basic human inhibitions.
4. Be A Good Listener
The act of compassion doesn’t lie in actions and words alone, it’s also the ability to listen attentively and express true sympathy for the plights of someone else.
As easy as it is to feign empathy, you must never do so because most people can sense ingenuity and this of course will render your efforts meaningless.
5. Be Merciful Like Jesus Christ And Forgive Those Who Hurt You
Oftentimes, the word pity or grace is misunderstood, when in fact they simply mean to be considerate and tender to another person even if they might have wronged you in the past, no matter how long ago.
Although, it can be really difficult to show pity, as someone who possesses the gift of compassion, always remember to lead with love and be willing to embrace peace since we were all sinners until we became saved by the sacrifice of our savior and Lord Jesus Christ.
Learn To Be Compassionate With Moderation
One of the pitfalls of being compassionate is becoming overly immersed in the idea of trying to help someone to the extent where it feels like you’re smothering the person. While trying to be there for someone, always remember not to do it excessively or overstep their personal bounds.
As a believer with this spiritual gift, prayer is the best way you can hope to receive guidance from God on how to use your gift appropriately.
Conclusion
People with the gift of compassion have heightened sensitivity to negative comments and emotional pain, so they are more likely to feel hurt easily compared to those without the gift.
This is why it’s important to always ask for guidance and strength through prayers to be able to discern when someone sincerely needs your help and to have the strength to be there for them.
