June 19: Lord of compassion

As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows what we are made of, remembering that we are dust.   (Psalm 103:13,14 — Holman Christian Standard Bible)

We all know that a good father is compassionate and kind to his children. Even if we did not have a good father, or had one that mistreated us, we know that a father cares for his children. A child counts on his father to protect him, provide for him, and love him. He is not quick to condemn or overly harsh in his words or actions. When his children do wrong, make mistakes, or fail, a good father is ready to help, encourage, and forgive. He would gladly die for his son or daughter if necessary. He wants the very best for his children and is happy when he can give them what they need or want.

These verses compare God to a compassionate father. Of course, He is much better than any earthly father — He has far more love, wisdom, and power. Though the Old Testament only referred to God as “Father” 15 times in total, when Jesus came into the world He began referring to Him almost exclusively as “Father”, and throughout the New Testament He is referred to as “Father” 245 times — a huge difference between Old and New Testaments. Clearly this was one of the great revelations that the Lord Jesus came to give, and one that the devil spends immense effort to block us from understanding. We must ensure that we get this revelation.

“The Lord has compassion on those who fear Him”. God loves all people, everywhere — but He has a special compassion for those who fear Him. When we honor Him as God, and love and obey His Son, God is drawn to us. When we are in trouble, He will deliver us. When we are sick, He will heal us. When we are discouraged or weak, He will lift us up. God will never leave or forsake those who are His.

When we call out to God for help, we should not be afraid of being rejected because of our imperfection and sin. He remembers what we are made of; He remembers that we are dust. We are weak and imperfect, but our fear and respect of Him cause Him to overlook those things, come to our rescue, and lift us up.