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Examine the Word

• Read Psalm 103:16 and James 5:11
• Read Colossians 3:12-14

For Discussion

• God is described throughout the Bible as a God who is merciful, compassionate, and long-suffering in His love. Is it easy or difficult for you to believe that God is compassionate? Why?
• Compassion ultimately derives from love. If God is a God of love, then He must be one of compassion. Name any stories from Scripture that show you the compassion of God.
• God wants His people to be holy like Him and to embody attributes such as compassion, empathy, kindness (see Col 3:12-14). Some of us are naturally more compassionate than others. But the compassion God wants is not something that can come from natural effort; it is a fruit of abiding by the Holy Spirit. How do you see God growing compassion in you? Or how would you like to see Him working in this area?
• How has God shown compassion to you (or your family) in specific ways?

For Practice

• Show: Talk about ways that your group can not just feel compassion but show compassion. Make a plan to do something tangible to show God’s compassion to others.
• Serve: There are so many people in desperate situations who need our compassionate effort. Sign up to serve with For the Nations Refugee Outreach, the DBC Food Pantry, or Our Calling.

For Family Discussions

• Talk about the compassion of Jesus. Read a few of the stories where He interrupts His schedule to heal the sick, bring peace to the demon-possessed, and feed the hungry.
• Make a plan for your family to serve together.
• Think back to when each of your family members showed compassion. Praise them for it and encourage one another to keep it up!