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Daily Devotions

Ephesians

Ephesians 
Day 
Day 243

"And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you."

Text: Ephesians 4:32

TENDERHEARTED

This is an interesting word. It is derived from the Greek “eusplagchnos”. The following features may be noted.

1. A compound word

The first part of the word means “good”. The second part of the word is a reference to “the inward organs” (literally “the bowels”).

2. An ancient Greek idea

If a person is healthy on the inside, then he is likely to have a good disposition on the outside. The internal organs, such as the intestines, were thought to be the seat of both emotion and intention.

3. Figurative idea

The word “tenderhearted” is to be understood as “compassionate”. The most obvious example of how this word is used may be found in the following text.

But when He saw the multitudes,
He was moved with compassion for them,
because they were weary and scattered,
like sheep having no shepherd.
MATTHEW 9:36

The phrase “moved with compassion” is derived from the Greek “esplagchnisthe”. This word has the same root as the above text “eusplagchnos”. Translating it literally, we may say that Jesus was deeply moved “in his bowels”. The translation “moved with compassion” is a good and acceptable translation.

PRACTICAL RAMIFICATIONS

What did Paul have in mind when he wrote to them, urging them to be “tenderhearted” towards each other?

1. Kindness and tenderheartedness go together

As “bitterness, wrath and anger” go together, so kindness and tenderheartedness are closely related. One supports the other.

2. Perceiving each other through eyes of benevolence

How we see each other will affect the way we feel towards each other. If we have benevolent eyes we will be able to be tenderhearted towards each other.

3. Tenderheartedness (compassion)

This is a powerful emotion. It is as powerful as bitterness and wrath. However, it is a far nobler virtue that is worth cultivating well.