Pointing to Jesus

Ephesians 4:32– Be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ Jesus forgave you.

Biblical kindness can be defined as compassion in action. Some other words used for kindness are goodness, uprightness, and gentleness. It can also mean well fit for use for what is needed. It is connected to mercy and forgiveness, and it is rooted in love. It is doing good to others even when they don’t deserve it.

Kindness is the 5th fruit of the Spirit in Galations 5:22. It is also the 2nd character trait listed in the Love Chapter in I Corinthians 13.  It comes as a result of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

In the natural, kindness is simply being nice. Biblical kindness goes beyond being nice. It is supernatural, meaning it’s not something we can do on our own. Biblical kindness is putting others before yourself. It is seeing a need or someone in need and doing what you can do to help by your words or deeds. Colossians 3:12 says, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.“

We look to Jesus as our supreme example of kindness. The greatest being his death on the cross for us, which was the ultimate act of kindness, compassion, and mercy and grace.  God’s kindness also leads us to repentance. Romans 2:4 says, “Or do you presume on the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance. “ God is full of kindness.

Some ways to show kindness are giving to those in need, listening to someone, complimenting someone, saying encouraging words, and smiling at people. You can also do random acts of kindness, such as paying for the person in line behind you. You can  befriend someone who needs a friend. You can find ways to serve in  your church or community. Saying please and thank you is also showing kindness. These are just some of the ways you can put kindness in action. Look for the needs around you, and ask the Holy Spirit what you can do to show kindness in word or deed.

Let’s clothe ourselves in kindness, like the Bible says and sprinkle it everywhere we go.

Blessings,

Desiree