The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of showing compassion and sympathy toward those who are afflicted. This duty is rooted in the character of God Himself, who is described as compassionate and merciful. Believers are called to emulate these divine attributes in their interactions with others, particularly those who are suffering.

Biblical Foundation

1. God's Compassionate Nature: The Lord is depicted as a compassionate and merciful God who cares deeply for the afflicted. In Psalm 34:18 , it is written, "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit." This verse highlights God's proximity to those who are suffering, setting an example for believers to follow.

2. Jesus' Example: Jesus Christ, during His earthly ministry, demonstrated profound compassion for the afflicted. In Matthew 9:36 , it is recorded, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus' life serves as a model for believers to show empathy and care for those in distress.

3. The Call to Bear One Another's Burdens: The Apostle Paul instructs believers to support each other in times of need. Galatians 6:2 states, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This directive underscores the communal responsibility to sympathize with and support those who are afflicted.

4. The Parable of the Good Samaritan: In Luke 10:30-37, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, illustrating the importance of showing mercy and compassion to those in need, regardless of social or ethnic boundaries. The Samaritan's actions exemplify true sympathy and care for the afflicted.

Practical Expressions of Sympathy

1. Listening and Presence: One of the most profound ways to sympathize with the afflicted is through active listening and being present. Job's friends initially demonstrated this when they sat with him in silence for seven days (Job 2:13). Although they later faltered in their support, their initial presence provided comfort.

2. Prayer and Intercession: Praying for those who are suffering is a powerful expression of sympathy. James 5:16 encourages believers to "pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail."

3. Practical Assistance: Sympathy should also manifest in tangible acts of kindness and support. In 1 John 3:17 , it is written, "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God abide in him?" Providing for the physical needs of the afflicted is a direct expression of God's love.

4. Encouragement and Comfort: Offering words of encouragement and comfort is another vital aspect of sympathizing with the afflicted. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 describes God as "the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."

Conclusion

The duty to sympathize with the afflicted is a fundamental aspect of Christian living, reflecting the heart of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. By embodying compassion, believers fulfill the law of Christ and bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel in their lives.Romans 12:15
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Galatians 6:2
Bear you one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Gospel the Power of God
... young men, who, with their faces toward Christ, have ... lords it over the demons of
afflicted humanity, and ... the only purpose, for God reveals duty primarily in ...
/.../romans corinthians to ii corinthians chap v/the gospel the power of.htm

Introduction to Oration ii.
... rate it is not the least important duty of religion ... toward the lofty, at another
lowly toward the lowly. ... if close at hand, and himself wail with the afflicted. ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/introduction to oration ii.htm

part ii
... single moment to anything earthly; have also an ardent love for human souls, love
for the sake of God, and be zealous for their salvation; pray for them as for ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

part i
... the immortality of his soul, and his duty to love ... be afflicted, and mourn, and weep."
[50] Tears have power to ... we interpret falsely and see in them ill-will ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

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