Be Ye Kind One to Another
Ephesians 4:32 - “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.”
Kindness is the “quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.” It is an attitude designed to treat others with all goodness. For several years, I wondered why this quality is not included in the “Fruit” of the Spirit. Now I realize just like love; kindness is a combination of many excellent qualities and attitudes toward others.
Kindness is not passive. It is dynamic, and it is often shown and felt not only by those receiving kindness but also by others as they are being moved by its power. It is something you cannot miss to notice.
We need to show kindness today.
The unprecedented situation we are in now must not make us react like the rest of the world: angry, violent, selfish, and unforgiving. To be unkind must not be found in a person who claims to love God.
Kindness is the opposite of selfishness. The Apostle Paul tells us that to be kind is to be tenderhearted. It has the quality of empathy. To be kind is forgiving. It is powerful, for it forgives gladly. Paul likens it to the kindness shown by the Lord Jesus Christ.
As members of the body of Christ and called to be His witnesses, let us be genuinely kind to one another. It is an opportunity to show that we are God’s children. Let us show that we have the peace of God that despite all the troubles in this world, God is still in control.
To be kind to one another, especially to the unbelievers, shows that the gospel is still alive and amazing. It continues to be the power of God unto salvation every time we share it. Kindness shows that in the midst of difficulty, there is hope in Christ.
The power of kindness brings unity and reconciliation. The most extraordinary kindness that was shown was when the Father sent His Son to save us to make us like “His kind.” We could never become and even get close to the likeness of Christ. But the lovingkindness of God made it possible. No wonder Apostle Paul says, “Even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.”
Our Prayer today:
Lord, thank you for reminding us that without your loving kindness, we would never enjoy your grace and the blessings we have today.
Your kindness has allowed us to reach out to others with your love. May we always be kind to one another and those outside our family. We pray that our kindness will make the world realize that you came to forgive and to change us sinners to be like your kind, being “Christlike.”
We pray in Jesus' Name. Amen!