Tenderness

Tenderness

I want a tender heart, but I also want a strong and courageous heart. Can I have both?

God’s Response

Never before had there been a king like Josiah, who turned to the LORD with all his heart and soul and strength. 2 Kings 23:25

Love the LORD your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, be faithful to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul. Joshua 22:5

For if you carefully obey the laws and regulations that the LORD gave to Israel through Moses, you will be successful. Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or lose heart! 1 Chronicles 22:13

A tender heart is not a weak heart. Tenderness is the quiet, compassionate, persevering character trait that only comes through a refining process. When you have been through a lot of pain and have suffered hurt, you develop compassion and empathy for the hurts of others. Tenderness is powerful in its expression of compassion, yet gentle in the mercy it extends to those who need comfort and encouragement. Weakness lacks compassion and empathy. If you are truly tender, then you are able to be courageous and strong.

God’s Promise

You will have courage because you will have hope. Job 11:18