A merciful person bears the burden of others’ suffering. Not out of obligation to show compassion, nor merely because they must help or give something, but because they have a nature of compassion. Such a person is not disappointed when their kindness is not appreciated or not repaid with thanks. Regarding human nature, we should not always view it negatively. Some people naturally like to give and help; if practiced, they can give even to the point of sacrifice. But the Divine nature we mean here is the development of God’s character and morals within us.
One must experience a new birth, and that new birth is built on the truths of the Gospel. Giving is an act of love. Even if someone gives away all their wealth, without love, it is all in vain. Love aligns with God’s mind and feelings. Therefore, we must develop sensitivity to understand God’s thoughts and feelings. The burden for others must be in step with His mind and heart. If God is burdened by something, we must also feel it and be willing to bear that burden, no matter how difficult or heavy; but if it is not God’s burden, however light, do not carry it.
If we can act this way, our actions will be noble, though not necessarily appreciated by people. This concerns humility, sincerity, and honesty in every aspect. When God sees human suffering, He pours out compassion. Many events in Scripture show this (Matt. 9:36; 15:32; 18:27; 20:34; Mark 6:34; Luke 7:13). How beautiful it is when our thoughts and feelings become vessels for God’s own thoughts and feelings. God uses those who are willing to be His vessels to channel His heart so that His Kingdom is manifested on earth. God’s children must become channels through which God’s mind and heart flow. These are the ones pleasing to the Father—those who suffer with Christ and are willing to do anything without limit, because God is the center of their life.
Note the very little difference between doing something out of human sympathy or pity and doing something because God wills it. Everyone who wants to be God’s vessel must have a capacity that is continually enlarged in line with God’s capacity of heart. We must have the mentality of God’s children. Whatever we do must serve God’s heart, not merely serve the task itself. The difference is subtle: do we do it because of God or because we want to do something?
Jesus once told His disciples to feed the five thousand who followed Him. The disciples felt it was impossible because the number was too great. Here, their limited capacity is seen, and they restricted themselves to quota calculations. But the one who truly loves God has no quota. They open themselves without limit, ready to do anything for God, even if it does not benefit themselves. They do not calculate profit in God’s work.
Many people can do many things, but when helping others, they manipulate it for their own benefit. They do not sincerely ask God what should be done and what should not be done. Indeed, what they do may seem right and even be useful, but is it truly God’s will? Or is it merely to satisfy themselves? God values actions that arise from a sincere heart aligned with His will.