Acting on Compassion: True Love in Action

AMY TURNER

When someone is cold or hungry, kind words alone won’t help them. James 2:16 reminds us that saying “stay warm and well fed” means nothing if we don’t do something to help. It’s easy to offer thoughts and prayers, and while those show we care, they don’t fill stomachs or warm homes. Real love takes real steps.

God gave us the perfect example. He didn’t just feel sorry for our struggles—He came down to us. He taught, He healed, and ultimately, He gave His life. That’s what the gospel is all about: love that acts. We are forever thankful that God didn’t just say He loved us—He proved it.

Look around your life. Is there someone who needs more than just your sympathy? Someone who will one day be grateful you chose to act and not just speak? Let your compassion move your hands and feet.

Little children, let’s not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.

1 John 3:18