When is compassion cruel?


Proverbs 12:10 (Proverb 12:10-12)--We've all seen those commercials or social media videos of abused puppies, kittens, and other animals. Those images stir up compassion in anyone--and also some anger at anyone who could harm a defenseless creature.

So, I've always wondered how compassion could be cruel. Why a "wicked" person's compassion in particular would be considered cruel.

I think it might be when someone values an animal's life over a human. By this I mean people who will risk their life to save a whale or dolphin (which in of itself is commendable), but turn away and not support the protection of an unborn child.

Someone with a faithful canine companion who watches pornography.

Someone who leaves their fortune to a pet rather than donate to a worthy cause.

Perhaps this verse is giving us insights into what GOD views as compassion.

Caring for our critters is part of our stewardship of GOD's creation. And when He blesses us with sweet companionship with these amazing creatures it's a lovely peek inside GOD's heart.

Our caution lies in remembering that our relationship with humans is more important--even, and especially, when it's difficult.

We are made in the image of GOD. An animal is not. An animal is not condemned to hell because of its unatoned sin, humans are. That's why our lives are more valuable in GOD's eyes.

May our hearts have compassion for all GOD's creation, my friends.

Proverbs 12:10--A righteous person cares for the life of his animal, yet even the compassion of the wicked is cruel. Tree of Life Bible Society Tree of Life Version - TLV #tlvbible #tlvproverbs

[WATCH Tree of Life Bible Society's CEO, Daniah Greenberg and me, Terri Gillespie dig a little deeper with this proverb. Check us out at Tree of Life Bible Society, Monday through Friday, LIVE at 8:30am EST. Watch previous episodes there as well. Stay wise, my friends!]

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