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(presented by Lisa Bishop)
We have been exploring the importance of kindness and I want to throw down a kindness challenge.
Before I do let’s take a look at what Titus 3:4-5 tells us about kindness:
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.
I want to take a look at those verses because they point out something very important when it comes to the kindness you and I are given by God. The kindness and love that Jesus demonstrates toward us is not something we deserved. His kindness is not based on our merit but on his mercy. In other words, you and I did not earn God’s kindness, it was freely given, not based on conditions.
How often do you extend kindness to someone only if they “deserve it.” When a coworker is off-putting or a person is annoying, in our flesh we are not bent toward kindness. Our tendency is avoidance, irritation, or the cold shoulder. Some form of withholding patience and gentleness. I know that can be my tendency when someone is not acting the way I think that they should. But Jesus demonstrates a higher way, and he loves and extends kindness without strings attached. Jesus’ kindness is not based on your behavior, it’s based on his favor for you, the generous and charitable heart of God. And you and I are to reflect his generosity to others.
So here are a few ideas to get you started exercising your kindness muscles.
- Write words of encouragement to a co-worker or friend.
- When someone has an opposing opinion, listen respectfully.
- Buy a co-worker lunch and if you’re working remotely, have their favorite meal delivered.
- Send a thank you note to someone who has made an impact on your life.
- Hold your tongue when someone frustrates you and instead of reacting harshly, be patient and loving.
- Let that car merge in front of you (I know. This one will take extra kindness).
Consider intentionally practicing kindness each day for the next 30 days. Kindness is no small thing. When practiced, it yields fruit both in your life and the lives of those around you.
