The Importance of Kindness
In a world filled with darkness and dissension, people are starved for kindness, love, and light. We know intrinsically that something is missing in us. We know that a cycle of hatred and meanness leads into dangerous places. So let’s choose kindness based on the gospel, knowing it will lead to change.
“so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” Ephesians 2:7
Who makes true kindness happen? Only God can make true, lasting, loving kindness happen. We know God exists and part of our soul hungers and thirsts for a right relationship with God. By default though, we seek pleasure and satisfaction in ourselves and under our own control. We don’t experience true peace, wholeness and life until Jesus saves us and we submit to Him and His control.
Titus 3:4-5 “But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit”
Where does lasting kindness come from? Enduring kindness in people only comes from God living in us through His Spirit. As Christians we get the privilege of showing the world the goodness and kindness of God, an undeserved and overwhelming love of “just being kind.”
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
When does kindness shine brightest? Kindness shines brightest in the darkest of situations and relationships. Kindness that is unexpected contrasts the humdrum routines of our days. Kindness that is simple can make a significant difference in peoples’ days and lives.
Ephesians 5:9 “for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true”
What does kindness look like? Smiles. Waves. Conversations. Interactions. Visits. Time. Encouragement. Gifts. Notes. Text messages. Social media interaction. Help in a time of need.
Philippians 2:4 “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
How can I change to be kinder? Just do it. Put a reminder in your car, at your desk, on your bathroom mirror. The effectiveness of the signs are that they become a regular reminder of being filled with God’s kindness and overflowing it to others.
What’s the kindest thing I can do? Introduce someone to Jesus. Demonstrate Jesus to someone. Pray to the One, True God on their behalf. Listen to their needs and share God’s truth.
May true Christians be the kindest and most consistent examples of love each day, throughout the day.