Kindness is a trait that comes naturally to some. It is one that can be easily and intentionally practiced so others are impacted by your thoughtfulness.
A fruit of the Spirit is kindness, or lovingkindness. It is a characteristic of God, and He develops this trait in us so we can be more like Him.
What are some examples in Scripture that reflect kindness?
One is that of the Good Samaritan. A man is hurt on the side of the road, and many pass without helping. Except one. Someone stops, helps him to a place of safety and where he could heal, and even pays for his expenses. (Luke 10:25-37). Another is Jesus’ response to the woman caught in adultery. He extended kindness to her, as no one was able to accuse her. (John 8:1-11). There are many other examples in which Christ and others extended kindness that could have been perceived as undeserved. If we think of God’s kindness to us, isn’t it also undeserved?
When we examine the merciful lovingkindness of the Lord, we find it relates to His covenant commitment to relationship. This passage contains all three pieces of the description of lovingkindness: His faithful love, His covenant, and His mercy.
“For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain. My covenant of blessing will never be broken,” says the Lord, who has mercy on you.” (Isaiah 54:10 NLT, italics mine).
He extends a steadfast, sure, committed, faithful love for us. And because He committed to us through covenant, that faithful lovingkindness will remain.
How do we respond to this lovingkindness? Paul and Timothy write in 2 Corinthians 6 that we, as believers, are not to do anything to cause anyone to find fault with our ministry. Every act, every word, every deed is to reflect our servant heart for God.
There is to be “… no obstruction in anyone’s path, so that the ministry will not be discredited, but we commend ourselves in every way as servants of God: … in purity and sincerity, in knowledge and spiritual insight, in patience, in kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in genuine love” (2 Corinthians 6:3-7, AMP).
How can we connect these thoughts to our daily lives? Our Faith Connections Challenge: When we see someone in need, make a point to go to that person and just sit with them. If they appear sad, give them a smile and start a trivial conversation. If someone is sitting alone at lunch, be bold and ask them if you could join them. Be intentional.
Lord, thank You for opportunities to extend Your lovingkindness to others. Thank You for using me to be an example of Your love. In Your precious, loving name, Amen.