Tenderness

In the Bible, tenderness encompasses a deep sense of compassion, gentleness, and sensitivity towards others, often reflecting the character of God. It is frequently associated with love and mercy, emphasizing the importance of caring for individuals with kindness and understanding. For instance, in 1 Peter 3:8, believers are called to be "like-minded, sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble," which underscores the call to exhibit tenderness in relationships. Moreover, the concept of tenderness is vividly illustrated in the life of Jesus, who displayed profound compassion for the suffering and marginalized. In Matthew 9:36, it is stated that He had compassion on the crowds, seeing them as "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." This characterization of Jesus reveals that tenderness is not merely an emotional state but is also an active response to the needs of others. In addition, the tenderness of God is often expressed in the nurturing imagery found in Isaiah 40:11, where God is depicted as a shepherd who gathers lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart, showcasing His loving and gentle nature toward His creation. Thus, tenderness in the biblical context is a vital aspect of love that manifests in both action and attitude towards others.

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