SOUL AWAKENING KINDNESS
And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, He has identified you as His own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:30-32 (NLT)
We live in a culture that’s divided. Social media is full of bitter and cutting remarks. Families are often in civil wars over something said or done. Co- workers will cut the legs out from each other to get to the top. Kindness in our culture is viewed as weak, and the weak get crushed. I’m embarrassed to say I thought I had to be a hard boss for years because I was afraid people would walk all over me. Remember that old saying, If you give an inch, they will take a mile? Sadly, this was my mindset, which still exists for many people today. Kindness is viewed as a weakness, while harshness is considered a strength. The problem with this is that it’s easy to be critical; that’s why so many are. It takes power to have restraint, which is why so few people have the ability to restrain their anger or feelings.
Jesus was the most powerful person the world has ever known, but He was kind. He didn’t lash out unjustly, and He didn’t crush people when wronged. He didn’t flash His authority or His ego. He loved and served those in need. Notice the verse above we grieve the Holy Spirit when we are harsh and cruel towards others, but we bring joy to the Spirit when we are kind and tenderhearted. May God awaken a kindness and compassion in you towards others. Kindness is a priority in the Kingdom.
The moment you talk about kindness, somebody will say, but how do we stand for truth? You can be honest and kind. You can be transparent and kindhearted. I often speak truth to people, but I wouldn’t say I like inflicting pain; however, I want them to grow and be aware of some issue in their lives. Don’t use raised voices, angry faces, stiff body language, or a condescending tone to speak the truth. You want truth to be received by another person, and kindness is one of the keys. It’s the way of the Kingdom, and it’s the way of Jesus we don’t often talk about. Be kind and truthful, and watch how God will use you. Know that it brings joy to the Spirit!
APPLICATION: Allow the Spirit to give you a kindness, and you speak truth today.
PRAYER: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal your heart during times of conflict. Ask Him how you can show kindness while still speaking the truth. Thank the Spirit for His kindness towards you and your shortcomings.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?