DO YOU VALUE KINDNESS?
18th Sep 2013
Some years ago, I unintentionally said something that resulted in a friend of mine being taken to task for something for which she had not been responsible. She could have been justifiably angry, but she treated me with firmness and yet kindness. She corrected me in a way that was able to to deepen our friendship, and I have never forgotten how kindness and firmness were mixed together.
God is kind and his kindness leads us to repentance. (Romans 2:4) He does not bully or shame us, but He acts towards us generously and graciously, even when we are at our worst. (Luke 6:35-36)
Kindness is part of God’s character, and it is also a fruit of the Spirit, and as such comes from His nature within us and not self effort. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22). Remember a tree grows fruit for others to pick!
Proverbs 11:17 says, “A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble upon himself.” 2 Timothy 2:24 says, “The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, instead he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful and those who oppose him he must gently instruct.” Proverbs 15:1 states, “A gentle (kind) answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Our words and actions create the environment in which we live.
See kindness as a strength. God is never vindictive, but always kind, loving, firm and generous. He wants us to imitate this quality of kindness in all of our relationships, but it isn’t about self effort, rather allowing the Holy Spirit to grow kindness that spreads into all parts of life.
Live knowing that God is always pouring out His kindness to you.
Be kind to yourself, and don’t live with guilt and shame because of past mistakes.
Give kindness away to those you live and work with, even when they don’t deserve it!
by Joyce Sibthorpe
