Devotions: Components of True Compassion

O Lord, I beseech You, may Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your servant and the prayer of Your servants who delight to revere Your name, and make Your servant successful today and grant him compassion before this man.

Nehemiah 1:11 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Nehemiah wrote this book several years after the fall of Jerusalem. Most of the people had been taken into captivity, only the poor left behind with the temple and gates of the city in ruins. Because of this, the people were bereft of physical and spiritual security. At this news, Nehemiah was distraught and wept for days. He fasted and prayed, asking God to restore them, to grant him guidance, success and compassion before the king. His plan was to ask the king for permission to return to Judah to rebuild Jerusalem. It was important that the king have compassion. He had to understand their situation, have pity on their plight, and be moved to action accordingly. All of this is required for compassion, lacking any one of these components falls short of true compassion.

Where do you need compassion from others? Where do you need to show others compassion? Not just pity, or understanding or action, but all three.

I would encourage you to read Nehemiah’s entire prayer. Not only does he ask God for what he wants, but he praises God for His love and goodness and asks forgiveness for the sins of his people. He leaves nothing out, acknowledging how truly horrible they had been. And praise God! He granted Nehemiah’s request. The king not only allowed Nehemiah to leave his service, but provided armed escorts and all the supplies needed for the project! What can you learn from this prayer?