It’s hard for our finite minds to grasp the two sides of the coin about God’s impassibility. On the one hand we know that God is not governed by emotions as we often are; He doesn’t react to the world’s events or experience moods. But at the same time, we know our good and just Creator feels compassion for His people, has anger toward sin, and is familiar with suffering.
John 11 tells of Jesus’ deep sorrow and compassion felt at the death of His friend Lazarus. He sees the anguish of Lazarus’ sisters as He comes to the tomb (v. 33-38). This account holds comfort for us: we know that Jesus really does mourn with us in our pain, sin, and heartache.
Additionally, because of God’s impassibility, suffering cannot overwhelm Him. When He entered into Mary and Martha’s grief, that was not the last word. He overcame it by raising Lazarus from the dead. Days after this event, He would take all of our sin and suffering at the cross, conquering it forever (v. 25-26). He’ll use our suffering now for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).