A Devotional on Ephesians 4:32: Why Self-Compassion is the First Step

BySierra
365 Mental Health Devotional Challenge: Day 52

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Unrecognizable female sitting with bare legs on white sheet with small red heart in hands in light room in daytime

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Devotional

Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another.”

Growing as individuals requires us to apply the many great things we have learned and read about. In today’s devotion, we are going to take the time to slow down and reflect. You have been working so hard. You may think that no one else has been noticing but I have. Seeing each one of you return each week putting in the effort, despite the chaos of your life, is phenomenal and such a blessing to see. So today, we are going to put that work to the test and reflect. Take the time to write these questions down in your journal or the comments below and explore the previous devotionals from this year’s challenge to help you along the way!

  1. Self-Talk: Would you be okay with someone else speaking to you the way you speak to yourself? How can you show yourself more compassion today? Search the few topics I have about self compassion, to help you reflect. Click Here
  1. Stress Response: When you feel mentally “burnt out,” is it harder for you to be kind? What is one thing you can do to recharge? Need help learning how to recharge? Check out my post on “The Importance of Self Care”. 
  1. Letting Go: Is there a grudge you’re holding that is making your mind feel heavy? What would it feel like to let that weight go? Check out my previous post on “Forgiving The Unforgiveable” to help you release that burden.
  1. Presence: Sometimes compassion is just “being there.” Who in your life needs your quiet presence more than your advice right now? Browse my “Relationships” archives for more on the art of holy listening.
  1. The Journey: Look back at your notes from earlier in this challenge. How has your mental health journey made it easier to practice this verse today? Re-read my first devotional post in this series to see just how far God has brought you. Click Here

Prayer Dear God, Thank You for the grace You give us every morning. As we reflect on Ephesians 4:32, help us extend that same kindness to ourselves. Soften the heavy parts of our hearts and give us the courage to let go of heavy burdens. Lord, guide us as we look back on how far we’ve come. Transform our thoughts and our rest so we can be a compassionate presence to those around us. Thank You for the growth You are working in us. Amen

You have completed Day 52 out of 365 Days of our 2026 Mental Health Devotional Challenge. I am so excited to let you guys know that I have been writing my first book. You guys have motivated me in ways I cannot describe in words. I am pouring my heart and soul into this community and I cannot wait to share the many updates about my book and some other pretty awesome things I have in the works for this year. God bless you all. 

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I hope you all have the best and most blessed day!

Sierra Stratman MSW LMSW U/S PhD Student 

Disclaimer

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), but I am not your therapist. The information provided in this blog post, including book recommendations and mental health insights, is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute a therapist-client relationship, nor is it intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.

8 Comments

  1. I give grace to others and compassion but it’s usually hard to show it to myself. Great reminder and that would want me to be gentle to myself too 🩷

  2. I would never allow someone to talk about someone else like I talk and think about me. I am my own worse critic. My thoughts hold me prisoner.

  3. I would like to thank you for having this at this time in my life. I am dealing with grief and feelings of abandonment right now. I wake up every morning eager to see what you have sent me that morning. You have been a blessing and most days are better. Thank you.

  5. Self talk is huge! I love being reminded that we wouldn’t allow anyone talk to us the way we talk to ourselves.

  6. It is so hard to be gentle to myself. I need to be better about it. I just don’t know where to begin sometimes. I really enjoy the way that your words flow onto the papers. I can’t wait to read your book!

    1. We are all guilty! But I am so glad our educational content is helping as a good reminder. P.S I am too! I have been working hard on it! I pray it’ll be ready by Christmas. God willing

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