Have you ever noticed that some people are more naturally compassionate than others? Maybe it’s their personality or upbringing. Nevertheless, in the church, every believer is told to “put on a heart of compassion" (Colossians 3:12).  While emotions cannot be manufactured on demand, we can change our thoughts, which in turn affects our emotions. Compassion is possible only when we think of others before ourselves. Self-centeredness keeps us from seeing the needs and hurts of those around us and acting on their behalf. What we need is a renewed mind. We are all born with a selfish, sinful nature, but when a person puts their trust in Jesus, they receive a new self, created in righteousness, by God (Ephesians 4:22-24). As our minds are renewed with His Words and we grow in obedience, Christ’s love and compassion begins to flow through us. A heart of compassion is achieved, not through self efforts, but through a God-focused life. As we draw near to God, through His Word and His Son, He transforms our focus, thoughts, and feelings. What a relief to know that God has provided everything we need to follow Jesus’s example of caring. Let us ask God to equip us to obey His every command! — Colossians 3:12-14