When the World Pulls at your Heart

Does the world pull at your heartstrings?

When I became a special needs mom, my entire world view was shaken to the core. I became so acutely aware of a deep lack of resources for our special needs population, and thought it was up to me to change that. Talk about my inner "Mama Bear" roaring! I was desperate to fight for my baby, and on behalf of all the other mothers out there who felt helpless, alone and overwhelmed.

Have you ever felt a deep pull toward issues in our world that weigh heavy on our hearts—whether it’s helping the vulnerable, fighting for justice, or pouring kindness to those who feel unseen and ignored? We live in a time when taking a stand can feel polarizing or exhausting..and we struggle to make an impact without losing grip on our faith and values.

I'm reminded of Galatians 6:9 that says: “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.”

Don't grow weary of doing good.

Don't. Grow. Weary.

There is so much strength in this verse. Sometimes we feel like all the good we try to do is an insurmountable challenge...but remember that your "good" has a purpose that goes beyond immediate results. Look at it as simply this: we are called by God to be His hands and feet in this world, but He also calls us to do it with love and empathy, not with hostility or division.

When we pursue social causes, it’s easy to do it from a place of judgment or frustration rather than empathy and love, isn't it? That's why we must stay anchored in our faith! Look to our example, Jesus, who often stood up for the marginalized, but always led with compassion. He always made sure to listen, to discern, to engage and reach out of pure love. Friend, you and I can reflect this same spirit in our advocacy, because our primary calling is first and foremost to love.

“Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” These words from Micah 6:8 serve as a beautiful reminder and roadmap to guide us. To "act justly" means we are intentional about pursuing good, while "love mercy" reminds us to extend grace, even unto to those we don't agree with. Don't forget to walk humbly...it simply means staying grounded in God's wisdom instead of our own emotions or the pressures of public opinion.

In your desire to make a positive impact, it's okay to start small. Remember the power of asking God for guidance and clarity on where He wants you to serve. It's important to have boundaries and to protect your peace. The best way to advocate for social causes is to lead from a place rooted in love and empathy, so actions can become more than just a response—they can become an extension of God’s love.

Prayer:
Lord, teach me how to seek justice and love mercy, just as Your heart does. I want to pursue positive change in the spirit of love, humility, and empathy. There is so much tension, hurt and distress in this world. Show me where I can serve to make the most difference... for Your glory, not my own. Amen.