Devotional - June 17, 2026

Scripture: Psalm 103: 13-14 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.

This Sunday is Father's Day.  I truly hope it is a day of celebration for you; either for you, or for someone else.  If not, let it be a day where you praise your Heavenly Father.  The Psalmist reminds us of God's compassion.  We remember that compassion is the emotional response of recognizing another's suffering and feeling a strong motivation to alleviate it.  Oftentimes, we do not associate this kind of behavior with men.  They are supposed to be tough.  The disciplinarians who keep the family in line.  Yet, how often I find that not being the case and it is becoming more obsolete as time goes on.  What would some of them think, if they were told their behavior is Godly behavior?  If they knew showing compassion is likened to God's behavior toward us.  Our Father's compassion for us has quelled his wrath more times, than he has held us accountable.  But do not think God is letting us get away with things, instead God is giving us time to change (Romans 2:4).  Like any good father would do, God gives us counsel and guidance to direct us in a better way.  What better guidance could our Heavenly Father have given us than the life and teaching of Jesus Christ.  Jesus being our high priest who sympathizes with our lot in life (Hebrews 4:15).  So many today look to the future in fear, but I actually find hope in our future generations.  We need to focus more on living the Christian life, showing the compassion God shows us, rather than expressing criticism and fear.  Afterall, we like them are dust.  We are human and all people need to feel the power of compassion.  It gives hope and encourages others to be better.  Take a moment next Sunday to let Your Heavenly Father know how much you appreciate His compassion toward you.

Pray with me ..., Holy God, Your compassion has blessed us in so many ways.  Hear our heart-felt praise for all You have done for us.  Hear us as we pray for all the fathers out there, especially those we know, bless them and help them as they seek to be a father to their children.  We ask Your blessing on all our loved ones, bless them according to their needs.  We ask Your blessing on our church, bless us, so we can be a blessing to others.  In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

God's peace,

Pastor Brian