The Wardrobe of the Soul

Today's Word of Wonder: Empathy

The Scripture Spotlight for Today

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
— Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

The Devotion: Wearing Your Faith

Have you ever noticed that Paul uses the language of "clothing" when he talks about our character? We don't just "have" compassion; we clothe ourselves in it. Just as you wouldn't walk out the door without your shoes or your coat, we shouldn't enter our day without intentionally putting on a heart for others.

The WOW Moment today is realizing that Empathy is the fruit of a well-tended heart.

When our hearts are cluttered with our own stress and comparison, we don't have "closet space" for anyone else's needs. But when we do the hard work of decluttering and finding stillness (as we’ve done this month), we suddenly find we have an abundance of grace to share.

Compassion is the "Heart-Work" of stepping into someone else's story. It is the realization that the person in the checkout line, the driver who cut you off, or the coworker who is "difficult" is also a child of God fighting a battle you know nothing about. Today, the miracle isn't what God does for you; it’s what He does through you.

Wonder Prompt (Actionable Reflection)

As you interact with people today—at home, online, or in the office—practice "The Compassion Gaze."

• Action: Before you respond to someone, take one breath and think: "This person is dearly loved by God." Then, offer one "extra" act of kindness (a longer listen, a genuine compliment, or a helping hand).

• Shift: Notice how your own "Heart-Work" feels more rewarding when it becomes a gift for someone else.

• Prayer: "Lord, thank You for the compassion You have clothed me in. Help me to be Your hands and feet today. Open my eyes to the needs around me and give me a heart that is ready to serve. Amen."