Empathy without Action

Today’s scripture: Isaiah 57:1-13 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?

My thoughts (Jeff Cope):

The idols among the smooth stones of the ravines are your portion; indeed, they are your lot. Isaiah 57:6

The Bible stresses over and over that we cannot please God when there is something in the way. Be it the overindulgence of drugs, alcohol, relaxation or even Netflix. God doesn’t want us worshiping anything other than God.

So what does God want us to be doing with our Netflix time? Giving back to others. Being the catalyst for change in the world. Essentially using the gifts God has given us to do God’s will.

It is not easy. We have to want to do what God wants in our lives. That’s where the emotion of empathy comes into play. When we see a situation and can understand the pain the other person must be feeling, we are empathizing. This makes us want to do something to make that situation better.

However, it seems a lot of times we are empathetic with our minds and unempathetic with our hands. Unless we actually take that step and try to remedy the situation in some form or fashion that emotion was wasted. Praying for someone is a first step only. The second step should be asking ourselves, “What can I do to make this situation better, if even ever so slightly?”

God wants us to love God but not horde God to ourselves. Our relationship should be one of being God like and returning the love we’ve received to those that haven’t seen grace.

Thought for the day: Are there people in your lives that could use your grace? Is there a cause that speaks to your heart that you can help propel? Pray about it and then get to work!

We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.