No One Else Can Fully Know Or Share

Each heart knows its own bitterness,
    and no one else can fully share its joy.

—Proverbs 14:10 (NLT)

Heavenly Father,

Help me to remember that only You can fully know the hearts of the those around me—and help me to carefully consider that fact, in all my dealings with others.

So guide me as I compassionately consider my neighbor, keeping me mindful that I can never truly know the depth of the hurt that they have experienced, because of what they may have been through—things that have helped to shape them into the persons that they now are—whether for the good or for the bad.

And remind me that each person’s heart carries its own bitterness—because of its brokenness, pain, and wounds—which cries out, searching for healing wherever it might be found. 

Use me to help point the broken-hearted to Your Son and our Savior, Jesus—the only One that can bring true healing to the broken—as I speak truth and grace with love into their lives.

And help me to rejoice with those whose hearts are rejoicing—though I can never fully share the joy that is uniquely theirs—in order that my own joy would be awakened within me and I would give you glory.

Help me to remember that only You can fully know the hearts of the those around me—and help me to carefully consider that fact, in all my dealings with others.

In the name of Jesus, Amen.