“Sympathy is no substitute for Action”, were the words coined by David Livingstone, a missionary to Africa. When we think of the word ‘sympathy’, it isn’t usually associated with something negative. It’s feelings of sympathy; compassion, pity and concern that make people cry alongside someone else or feel sorrow when they hear bad news.
Sympathy was an attribute that Jesus displayed time and time again, He felt for others and their situations. “When He saw the throngs, He was moved with pity and sympathy for them, because they were bewildered (harassed and distressed and dejected and helpless), like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36 (AMP)
Sympathy Alone is not Enough!
Sympathy is a God-given emotion, but it is a response that should spur us into action! I’m sure that clicking the sad face emoji on an article isn’t quite what He had in mind when He designed us. Jesus led by example; His compassion was always followed by an action. Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” Mark 1:41
Our call is definitely in the area of relationships. It often feels like our heartstrings are being pulled when we hear of those who are struggling to do relationships well. It’s not difficult for us to feel for those who are hurting but, in the beginning, we didn’t feel ‘qualified’ to reach out and help. Perhaps, like us, you mistakenly believe that you will need all the answers. Don’t complicate it! When God stirs sympathy within you pause and ask Him what He would like you to do. Perhaps He is asking you to go or give or pray. What action do you need to take?
