“A righteous man has regard for the life of his animal, But even the compassion of the wicked is cruel.” --Proverbs 12:10
Have you ever noticed that look of love and trust in the eyes of a horse or a dog when its owner approaches? You’ll usually also see it nuzzle its owner as it tries to get as close as possible to him or her.
I was pondering the second half of Proverbs 12:10, “... but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel”. How can that be? How can compassion or tender mercies be cruel? They are cruel when they are inconsistent and mixed with indifference and callousness, because the recipient doesn’t know what to expect. Instead of love, trust, and nuzzles, you’ll find apprehension and distance. I'd rather have nuzzles, wouldn't you?
I was pondering the second half of Proverbs 12:10, “... but even the compassion of the wicked is cruel”. How can that be? How can compassion or tender mercies be cruel? They are cruel when they are inconsistent and mixed with indifference and callousness, because the recipient doesn’t know what to expect. Instead of love, trust, and nuzzles, you’ll find apprehension and distance. I'd rather have nuzzles, wouldn't you?
I would too. What a lovely post. And such great timing to read it today, after sharing some nice moments with a horse just this morning.
ReplyDeleteThanks!