For the Faithful
Empathy
Sensing the emotions of others and responding with care
Our current faith‑based resources are written from a Christian perspective, but we know that many other faith traditions also nurture strong character, and we want to honor and uplift that diversity.
We are actively seeking contributors from additional faith traditions who would like to help us expand this section. If you are interested, we would be grateful to partner with you.
Empathy helps believers understand and care for one another deeply.
When we listen with compassion, we reflect Christ’s tenderness. Empathy builds a community where people feel known and supported.
Essay
Soften Your Heart
by Jill Tomey
Looking at the opposite quality gives us more information about Empathy. The word callousness calls to mind the hardness and barrier of callouses. The opposite of that would be softness and openness, which is another way to think about Empathy. It takes an open heart to let Jesus in. He wants residence, and all it takes is an invitation. It takes a soft heart to see Jesus in each other, to be willing to look past your own anger and wounds to sense the emotions of another. When we become vulnerable by lowering our protective shields (our callouses), we can more readily sense the hurt in others and take action to be Jesus’s healing to them.
What will you open your heart to this month?
Affirmations for the Faithful
I seek to understand what others may be thinking or feeling, just as Christ understands me.
I imagine what it might feel like to be in someone else’s shoes, remembering that we all carry unseen burdens.
I choose to believe people are trying their best, extending the same grace God gives me.
I remember that we are all created in God’s image and called to unity.
I appreciate the unique gifts and perspectives God has placed in each person.
Empathy Resource Library
The Links below will take you to Resources, like activities, reflections, and visuals you can use personally or in your faith organization to encourage the Character Quality of Empathy.
Empathy Verses
Want to deepen your understanding of Empathy through Scripture? Explore our collection of Empathy Bible Verses for inspiration and reflection.
