“As it is written: ‘There is no one righteous, not even one.’” – Romans 3:10 (NIV)
Nobody’s perfect here on Earth. It doesn’t matter how much we strive to do good in life or desire to be perfect, it isn’t attainable. Your pastor, the person sitting next to you in church, and your friends aren’t perfect.
Some people have a misconception that they’re not good enough to go to church, they don’t have the right clothes, or they have sinned so much that they’re not worthy of God’s love. It’s sometimes perceived that the only people in the church are non-sinners and do-gooders. Nothing could be further from the truth. We wouldn’t have any reason to attend church if we were perfect. We wouldn’t require Bible study and we certainly wouldn’t need forgiveness. The truth is we are sinners. “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” – Romans 3:23-24 (NIV)
The world is full of hurting people. It could be your next-door neighbor, a family member, or a church member. It could be any one of us. We can get so caught up in our own lives that we aren’t paying attention to the needs of others. It’s important to recognize that. But it’s important to remember that we’re not alone, no matter how much we may feel like it. The good news is that our weaknesses and imperfections can cause us to grow closer to God. He is there when no one else is. God loves us.
I like to remember the word “compassion.” We should be concerned for the sufferings and misfortunes of others. The Bible is full of scripture about compassion. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
When you’re alone and hurting, remember to call on Jesus. Open your heart to Him and ask for what you need. Don’t be afraid to unburden yourself and ask for help. He loves you and wants to be in your life.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, Help us to overcome our fearfulness in asking for Your help. Remind us that we are flawed. Help us remember that many hurting people could use a kind word or a smile. Thank You for Your Word so we may read, study, and understand Your unchanging, faithful, and gracious ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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