God First Life Next

Author: Jovelyn Apus

  • Healing Hearts: How Empathy Brings Emotional Support

    Healing Hearts: How Empathy Brings Emotional Support

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    “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.”

     

    – Galatians 5:22

    Emotional wounds are often invisible but can weigh heavier than physical ones. When people around us are hurting, offering true support requires more than kind words—it calls for empathy. Empathy is the ability to step into someone’s experience, sit with them in their pain, and remind them they’re not alone. Galatians 5:22 describes the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness—all qualities that make empathy possible and powerful.

    Empathy as a Healing Balm

    Empathy doesn’t fix problems, but it creates a safe space for others to process their emotions. It reflects God’s love by saying, “I see you, I hear you, and I care.” Jesus demonstrated this kind of empathy throughout His ministry. When Lazarus died, He wept alongside Mary and Martha (John 11:35), even though He knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead. In that moment, Jesus showed us that empathy is not about solving but about sharing someone’s burden.

    Why Empathy is Essential in Healing

    Empathy communicates value. When we truly listen, we affirm that someone’s pain matters. Healing begins when people feel understood, and empathy lays the foundation for that understanding.

    Steps to Provide Emotional Support with Empathy

    1. Be Present
      Sometimes the best way to support someone is simply to be there. Your presence speaks volumes, even when words feel inadequate.
    2. Listen Actively
      Don’t rush to offer advice or solutions. Focus on what they’re saying and how they’re feeling. Reflect their emotions back to show you’re engaged.
    3. Avoid Minimizing Their Pain
      Phrases like “It’s not that bad” or “You’ll get over it” can make someone feel dismissed. Instead, validate their feelings by saying, “I can see why that’s so hard for you.”
    4. Pray With and For Them
      Prayer is one of the most powerful ways to provide emotional support. Pray for peace, strength, and healing in their life, and let them know you’re interceding for them.
    5. Follow Up
      Empathy doesn’t end after one conversation. Check in regularly to show that your care is ongoing, not just a one-time gesture.


    Reflection

    Is there someone in your life who needs empathy and emotional support right now? How can you intentionally show them the love of Christ through your presence and kindness?

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    Prayer


    Heavenly Father,

    thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, which fills us with love, patience, kindness, and peace. Teach us to use these gifts to bring comfort and healing to those who are hurting. Help us to be fully present, to listen with open hearts, and to reflect Your love in every interaction.

    Let us be Your hands and feet, offering compassion and empathy to those in need. Thank You for being our ultimate source of comfort, and may we share that same comfort with others.

    In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Empathy is more than a feeling; it’s a choice to walk with others in their pain. Let’s choose to be a source of emotional support and healing for those around us today.

    God bless, and let’s keep Him first in everything we do.

    For more uplifting devotionals and prayers, visit God First Life. 

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    Dan Greer

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  • Made for More: Encouraging Empathy Through Service

    Made for More: Encouraging Empathy Through Service

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    “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

    — Ephesians 2:10

     

     

    God didn’t create us to live self-centered lives. Instead, He designed us for a purpose—one filled with good works that reflect His love to the world. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we are His workmanship, intentionally crafted by His hand, and uniquely equipped to serve others in ways that bring Him glory. But service isn’t just about helping—it’s about understanding. It’s about stepping into someone else’s shoes and letting empathy guide our actions.

    Empathy Through Service

    Service is one of the most powerful ways to practice empathy. When we serve, we intentionally focus on someone else’s needs, putting their well-being ahead of our own. It’s not about pity or obligation; it’s about love in action. Jesus modeled this perfectly when He washed His disciples’ feet in John 13:1-17. As the Son of God, He didn’t have to stoop to such a lowly task, but He chose to serve because His love was greater than His status.

    Why Service Deepens Empathy

    When we serve, we see the world from a different perspective. We understand struggles we’ve never faced, celebrate victories we’ve never experienced, and grow in compassion for those we might otherwise overlook. Service transforms us because it aligns our hearts with God’s.

    How to Serve With Empathy

    1. Start Small
      Empathy grows in the small, intentional acts of service. A kind word, a warm meal, or even a listening ear can make a significant difference in someone’s life.
    2. Engage Fully
      Don’t just serve from a distance. Get to know the people you’re serving. Ask about their stories, their hopes, and their challenges.
    3. Serve Without Expectation
      True empathy expects nothing in return. Serve because God calls you to, not because you’re hoping for recognition or a reward.
    4. Pray for Opportunities
      Ask God to open your eyes to ways you can serve others. Sometimes the greatest opportunities for empathy come in the moments we least expect.
    5. Reflect Christ’s Love
      Remember that when you serve others, you’re serving Christ (Matthew 25:40). Let His love shine through your actions.


    Reflection

    Who has God placed in your life that you can serve today? How might an intentional act of service deepen your empathy for them?

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    Prayer


    Heavenly Father,

    Thank You for creating us with purpose and for equipping us to serve. Teach us to see service not as a chore, but as an opportunity to reflect Your love and build empathy. Open our eyes to the needs around us and give us the courage to step into them. Let our actions be guided by compassion, our hearts filled with Your grace, and our hands ready to work for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Service isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. As God’s workmanship, we are made for good works that encourage empathy and change lives, including our own. Let’s live like we’re made for more.

    God bless, and let’s keep Him first in everything we do.

    For more uplifting devotionals and prayers, visit God First Life. 

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    Dan Greer

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  • Kindness That Heals: Building Bridges with Christ’s Love

    Kindness That Heals: Building Bridges with Christ’s Love

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    “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”


    — Ephesians 4:32

    Empathy is a rare but powerful gift in a world often divided by misunderstandings and differences. It’s not just about seeing someone else’s perspective; it’s about meeting them where they are, with Christ-like kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us that kindness isn’t optional for believers—it’s essential. It’s the tool we use to heal relationships, mend brokenness, and bridge the empathy gaps that divide us.

    The Challenge of Empathy

    We naturally gravitate toward those who think, act, and believe like we do. But what about those who don’t? Empathy requires stepping beyond comfort zones to engage with people whose experiences and opinions differ from ours. That’s where the love of Christ comes in, breaking down walls and helping us to connect on a deeper level.

    Jesus didn’t let differences stop Him from reaching others. When He met the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26), He crossed cultural and social barriers to offer her living water. When He dined with tax collectors and sinners (Mark 2:13-17), He showed that God’s love is for everyone. These weren’t easy conversations, but they were life-changing moments born out of kindness and compassion.

    How to Build Bridges of Kindness

    1. Start with Listening
      Often, people just want to be heard. James 1:19 reminds us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” Take time to understand someone’s story before responding.
    2. See with God’s Eyes
      Every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Reminding yourself of this truth can help you treat others with dignity and respect, even in disagreement.
    3. Respond with Grace
      Bridging gaps takes grace—sometimes more than we think we have. But God’s grace toward us is the perfect model. When frustrations rise, choose forgiveness and patience over anger.
    4. Pray for Connection
      Building bridges requires God’s help. Pray for wisdom, understanding, and opportunities to connect with those who feel distant.
    5. Take Action
      Kindness is love in motion. A simple gesture, like a heartfelt note or an offer to help, can soften even the hardest hearts.


    Reflection

    Who in your life feels distant, misunderstood, or disconnected? What steps can you take today to build a bridge of kindness in that relationship?

    Prayer:

    Lord, thank You for showing us the ultimate example of kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Teach us to reflect Your love in our relationships, especially with those who feel far from us. Help us to be bold in building bridges, tender in listening, and generous in showing grace. Soften our hearts and guide our actions, so we can bring Your healing love to a world in need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Kindness isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a life-changing force. Let’s take the challenge of Ephesians 4:32 seriously and begin building bridges that heal today.

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    Extended Prayer: Lord, Help Us Build Bridges of Kindness

    Heavenly Father,

    Thank You for Your endless kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. You didn’t wait for us to be perfect before reaching out; instead, You loved us right where we were, in the middle of our brokenness. Through Jesus, You showed us what it means to build bridges with humility and grace, and we are so grateful for the example You set.

    Lord, we confess that we often fall short in showing empathy and kindness. It’s easier to stay in our own comfort zones, to hold grudges, or to assume we’re right without listening to others. Forgive us for the moments when our pride, impatience, or fear have built walls instead of bridges. Forgive us for choosing judgment over understanding and isolation over connection.

    Father, we ask for Your help in becoming bridge-builders. Teach us to listen with open hearts and to see others through Your eyes. Show us how to step into someone else’s world, even when it’s uncomfortable or unfamiliar. Help us to resist the temptation to react in anger or frustration and instead respond with the tenderhearted love that reflects Your character.

    Give us the courage to reach out to those who feel distant, whether it’s a family member, friend, coworker, or even a stranger. Fill us with Your Spirit so that our words and actions are guided by love, not fear. When we feel weary or discouraged, remind us that You are with us, strengthening us every step of the way.

    Lord, we lift up the people in our lives who are struggling right now. Whether they are battling loneliness, pain, or confusion, we ask that You surround them with Your peace and comfort. Use us as Your hands and feet to show them the kindness and understanding they need.

    We also pray for the courage to extend forgiveness where it’s needed. Just as You have forgiven us through Christ, help us to forgive others. Break down the barriers in our hearts that keep us from loving fully and freely.

    Father, as we go about our day, open our eyes to the opportunities You’ve placed before us to show kindness. Whether it’s through a smile, a word of encouragement, or an act of service, let us be a reflection of Your love in the lives of those we encounter.

    Thank You for the incredible privilege of being part of Your work here on earth. Use us to bring healing and unity in a world so often divided. Let our kindness be a light that draws others closer to You.

    In the name of Jesus, our Savior and ultimate Bridge-Builder, we pray,

    Amen.

    God bless, and let’s keep Him first in everything we do.

    For more uplifting devotionals and prayers, visit God First Life. 

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    Dan Greer

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