The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. — Psalm 145:8

Kristen Feola writes: Last night was a very long night My daughter ran into the bathroom nearly every hour to get sick, and I got up with her. Each time I was awakened, though, it became harder to get out of bed As I pulled the covers off to get up for the fifth or sixth time, I reminded myself, “Compassion, Kristen. Be patient and compassionate.”

At 4:30 a.m., I decided to just stay up and try to do some work on the computer. Almost as soon as I started writing, I heard Isabelle dry-heaving, so I went into the bathroom. In a shaky voice, she said, “I just want you with me.” She was scared and wanted the comfort of having me close. I gave her a kiss on the top of her head and put my arms around her while she threw up. After she finished, I washed her face, tucked her back into bed, and prayed for her.

God, thank you for giving me life, both physically and spiritually, and for sending your Holy Spirit to live in me so I would never be alone.

As I was cleaning up the bathroom, I couldn’t help thinking about how the Lord responds to us in our time of need. Isaiah 30:18 says, “The LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion.” Our loving Father doesn’t hesitate when we call out to him. He is always ready to come to our rescue.

No matter what you’re going through, whether you’re sick or lonely or scared, your gracious God is listening. As soon as your desperate cries reach his ears, he will surround you with his unconditional love and mercy. You can find comfort in God’s promise that he will never leave you nor forsake you, which means you won’t ever have to go through anything alone. When you find yourself facing the darkest of nights, cry out to the Lord, and find strength in his presence. He is waiting to help you.

Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for being a God of compassion and for always being there when I pray. Open my eyes to practical ways I can show your compassion to others.

Verses for additional study:

Psalm 116:5

Psalm 145:8 – 9

2 Corinthians 1:3

Colossians 3:12