A Calling to Nurses: Keep Your Hearts Clean

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” — Matthew 5:7

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.” — Philippians 2:3

Devotional

In Butterfly by Grace Mommy and Daughter Blog as a registered nurse I have been feeling the need to pray for all nurses.  This is a calling to every nurse—new, seasoned, tired, gifted, struggling, and still standing. Nurses to guard your heart. Do not let bitterness, pride, gossip, or burnout contaminate the calling God placed on your life. The hospital may be busy, stressful, and imperfect—but your spirit does not have to become hardened.

Do not forget the prayer you whispered when you first arrived.
The prayer that said, “Lord, help me.”  “Lord, teach me.” “Lord, use my hands.” That prayer still matters. God still hears it.

Nurses are called to mercy—not only for patients, but for one another. We are called to be humble.  If you are a nurse educator then you must know to use mercy when you teach. Teach with patience, not frustration. Remember that you were once learning too. You did not know everything. Someone slowed down for you. Someone explained again. Someone showed you grace. Be humble and remember God is watching our every move!  Treat new nurses with respect.  They are not a burden—they are a responsibility and a blessing. The same mercy that carried you through your early days is the mercy you are now called to give.

Correction does not require cruelty.  Excellence does not require humiliation.  Leadership does not require hardness of heart.

Jesus served with compassion, even when He was tired. He corrected it with love. He taught with patience. If we claim His name, our hands must reflect His heart.  Let your unit be a place where: Prayer is remembered, even if silently, Mercy is practiced, not withheld, Patience is taught, not forced, Respect is given, not earned through fear.  This is not just about being a good nurse. This is about honoring the calling. The next time you teach or train a new nurse; remember to be merciful as Jesus had mercy with you. Practice Love and respect. If you want to see a change; start by being the change. 

Prayer

Lord, call our hearts back to You. Keep us from becoming contaminated by pride, anger, or impatience. Help us remember the prayers we once prayed and live them out daily. Teach us to lead with mercy, teach with patience, and treat every nurse with respect. May our work reflect Your love. Amen.