"Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." — Lamentations 3:22-23

We’ve got some questions below for you to consider as you dive into our verse this month. For me, it’s that 5th question that gets me. How is God’s compassion for us different than what we often get from others or give ourselves? Here are my thoughts: 

Have you ever entrusted someone with your hurt only to be hurt more by their insensitivity? I have.

When I was looking for someone just to listen and tell me it was all going to work out, they offered me solutions instead. When I needed a shoulder to cry on, they didn’t give it. When I was silently suffering, they didn’t notice. I think my experience is pretty common. Haven’t we all found ourselves in these places—longing for a more tender response, a different kind of care, a more compassionate reception? 

But sometimes even when they do everything perfectly, it still isn’t enough.

Maybe they really listened to my hurts and told me it would all work out, but I still wasn’t consoled. Or maybe I got that deep and genuine hug, but it didn’t comfort my soul. Or maybe they reached out in my loneliness, but it still didn’t ease the hurt. What do I do when my struggles are too big, my sadness is too deep, or when I feel all alone in the hardest season? What then?

I go to Jesus. 

I share my troubles with him, and he reminds me of this truth: one day he will make everything ok. I read and remember his words, and they comfort my soul. And in my loneliness I pray for his presence, and he is there. He was always there. He has carried me through each dark night. And each new morning reminds me that his compassion never fails.

Reflection Questions

1. Talk about a time when someone showed you compassion. How did it affect you? 

2. God’s love and compassion for you will never fail or run dry. How does this encourage you?

3. Read Lamentations 3:19-26. God’s people are currently in exile as punishment for their sins (see this month’s teaching podcast for more). Yet, even in this difficult time, they look to the God who loves them and is compassionate towards them. How does this encourage you for times when you’ve disobeyed God? 

4. What are some things that tend to make you feel “consumed”? Why?

5. God’s compassion for us is fueled by his great love. How does this differ from the compassion we often get from others or give ourselves? 

6. What’s one way you can show love-motivated compassion for other people?