Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. - Hebrews 13:3
As I read this passage I was deeply convicted. How many times have I heard of horrific situations people are facing, maybe even pray for them in the moment, and then a few minutes later I've continued on with my life and completely forgotten what they're going through. This verse reminds me to remember the plights and prayers of people as if I myself were facing the situation. I wouldn't forget to lift up a prayer for provision if I were facing financial ruin, to seek supernatural healing and peace while encountering a troubling diagnosis, or ask God to move mightily if I were lost in a state of depression, yet I so often forget to lift up similar requests for those around me who are facing these situations. The only response I can find is to repent for my lack of focus and concern for others and ask God to open my heart and eyes to these situations around me with a renewed understanding and motivation to lift them up in prayer and support them as the Lord leads.
Lord, forgive my negligence. Give me a heart that is open and willing to be affected and broken by the plights of others. Teach me not to be afraid to become invested that I might better serve my neighbors for Your Glory. Amen.
