Tag Archives: kindness

May 28, 2025 · 5:38 AM

Godly Kindness

One of the Fruits of the Spirit that we should be cultivating in our lives is kindness. It’s more than being nice to someone. Kindness is reflecting the heart of God instead of being selfish and seeking your own advantage. Our world is impatient, self centered and prideful. Even when some people appear to be kind, they have a selfish agenda behind the action. Godly kindness is born out of a heart that does what God wants for the person. It reflects His love Hos love for them through words, time and action. God blesses that kind of kindness.

David and Saul are great examples of the difference between Godly kindness and the worldly mindset. In 1 Samuel 26, Saul was chasing David out of his selfish desire to keep the kingdom in his family knowing God had blessed David. One night, David and one of his men snuck into Saul’s camp and found everyone asleep. They walked up to Saul to find his spear and his water jug by his head. His soldier wanted to kill Saul, but in kindness, David allowed him to live putting God’s will above his own. David took the spear and the water jug then went a safe distance before yelling to wake them up. Saul experienced David’s kindness and turned back from hunting David on this occasion while offering him empty platitudes.

Proverbs 11:17 says, “Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you” (NLT). Saul was being destroyed as he was consumed with selfishness. For years David had every opportunity to seize what God had promised him, but operated out of God’s kindness while waiting for God’s timing. He saw King Saul as God’s anointed even though he carried the anointing himself. He looked for the image of God in Saul and treated him as that instead of as his enemy. Kindness give others what they don’t deserve and that’s why God’s kindness leads us to repentance. Who do you know that needs to experience God’s kindness through you today?

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February 10, 2025 · 5:50 AM

Redefining Yourself

Have you ever thought about what you want to be defined by? I hear people say what they don’t want to be defined by. I’ve heard it said that you are defined by the qualities and values that you exhibit. I’ve spent time thinking about the core values I want to live by and also the qualities I want to exhibit. Some come naturally and others I have to work at. I first started thinking about these in the sixth grade when a teacher told me the proverb that says a good name is rather to be chosen than great riches. I decided then that I wanted a good name. I thought about what it takes to have a good name. I’ve also found out how hard it is to keep one. As I looked at other people, I recognized qualities in them and decided I wanted those in my life. I’ve also found Biblical ones I needed to adopt.

Proverbs 3:3 says, “Do not let mercy and kindness and truth leave you [instead let these qualities define you]; Bind them [securely] around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart” (AMP). I think it’s important that this verse leads with mercy. This is one that doesn’t come naturally to most of us. It’s the quality of giving forgiveness to someone who has offended or wronged you. When I think of mercy, I think of Joseph. His brothers beat him up, threw him into a pit and sold him into slavery. When they came looking for grain, he was in a position to pay them back, but chose mercy instead. He understood God’s plan was to get him there to save his family rather than to pay them back.

The next one mentioned is kindness. This is a fruit of the Spirit that again isn’t natural for most of us. I think of King David when he found Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth. Instead of killing off the last king’s family line, David gave him a permanent seat at his table. Truth is critical in the life of a believer as well. We need truth because Jesus is the Truth. It is also what sets people free. When our lives are marked by truth, we take freedom with us to whomever we meet. What a thing to be defined by! All three of these are powerful, and Solomon told us to bind them around our neck and write them on our heart. The neck represented our human will. He’s telling us me must override that with these. To write them on our heart makes them become part of who we are. Don’t let your past or your flesh to define you anymore. Choose these instead. It’s never too late to redefine the things that define you.

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October 3, 2024 · 5:30 AM

Goodness In Action

I was just telling my son, that Romans is my favorite book in the Bible. It’s full of so many treasures and some outright blunt speaking from Paul. One of which is Romans 2:4. It says, “Are you [actually] unaware or ignorant [of the fact] that God’s kindness leads you to repentance [that is, to change your inner self, your old way of thinking—seek His purpose for your life]?” (AMP) Through this verse, Paul revealed the part of our process of the change in our heart and mind that led us to seeking forgiveness for our sin. When you think back to when you received Jesus as your savior, there was kindness or goodness in action from God towards you that led you towards trusting in Him. That kindness created a change of heart in you. That same kindness that God demonstrated to you is the same kindness listed in the Fruits of the Spirit that we are to display to others.

In Genesis 43, Joseph’s brothers returned to Egypt for more grain. Joseph showed them kindness by feeding them at his own home. They knew they didn’t deserve this kindness as their consciences reminded them of what they had done to their brother. After having lunch with them, he planted a cup in Benjamin’s bag that was found later after they left. When he said Benjamin had to go to jail, Judah stood up and offered an act of kindness by saying he would take the punishment for Benjamin. When Joseph saw this, he knew their hearts had changed and he revealed himself to them. Forgiveness and restoration took place because kindness (goodness in action) was demonstrated when they didn’t deserve it.

Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and helpful to one another, tender-hearted [compassionate, understanding], forgiving one another [readily and freely], just as God in Christ also forgave you” (AMP). It’s not just God’s kindness that leads to repentance, it’s our goodness in action and forgiveness that points them to Jesus too. Who in your life least deserves kindness from you? We are to readily and freely forgive others as Jesus readily and freely forgave us. We need to show kindness to those who have wronged us rather than seeking revenge. Pray for wisdom and help from God to help you forgive and show you ways to express His kindness to them and to others you meet. We know that when others see our good works and goodness in action, they’ll glorify God and turn to Him.

Photo by ROCKETMANN TEAM on Pexels.

Throwback Thursday is a feature I’m using to help build some margin into my schedule to pursue other ventures. Each Thursday I’ll be bringing you a previously written devotional that still speaks encouragement to us from God’s Word.

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December 20, 2021 · 5:38 AM

Kindness Matters

There was a single lady named Anna Schoiberin who got pregnant and gave birth to a boy named Josef in the late 1700’s. The man who got her pregnant was a mercenary soldier. He took off and abandoned them leaving them with the shame. The town’s executioner agreed to be the boy’s godfather. That didn’t help their reputation. After a couple of years, she couldn’t afford to live and support them both, so she decided to give up her son. The local church decided to take him in because no one else would. They noticed he had a proclivity towards music and began to foster it.

When he grew up, he decided to go into ministry. After school, he was assigned a church. After being there a couple of years, he was assigned the task of introducing a new song to celebrate the Christmas season. He took a poem he had written to a friend who arranged it to be played on the church organ. However, when Christmas time came, the organ had fallen into disrepair. His friend quickly changed the arrangement to be played acoustically. That night, “Silent Night” was sung publicly for the first time. The church loved it! It has gone on to be the most popular Christmas carol being translated into over 300 languages and even briefly stopped World War I.

Colossians 3:12 says, “You are the people of God; he loved you and chose you for his own. So then, you must clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (GNT). There are people all around us who, like Josef, have been rejected and need kindness. They’re seeking refuge, love and healing for their brokenness. We as Christians can either compound their hurt or silence their pain through our kindness and compassion. I love that it was the Church who took Josef Mohr in, loved him and fostered his gifts. There’s no telling what your act of kindness will do in someone’s life. Because that church was clothed with all these traits listed, history was changed. Kindness matters.

Photo by Adam Nemeroff on Unsplash

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May 24, 2021 · 6:01 AM

Goodness In Action

I was just telling my son, that Romans is my favorite book in the Bible. It’s full of so many treasures and some outright blunt speaking from Paul. One of which is Romans 2:4. It says, “Are you [actually] unaware or ignorant [of the fact] that God’s kindness leads you to repentance [that is, to change your inner self, your old way of thinking—seek His purpose for your life]?” (AMP) Through this verse, Paul revealed part of our salvation process and the change in our heart and mind that led us to seeking forgiveness for our sin. When you think back to when you received Jesus as your savior, there was kindness or goodness in action from God towards you that led you towards trusting in Him. That kindness created a change of heart in you. That same kindness that God demonstrated to you is the same kindness listed in the Fruits of the Spirit that we are to display to others.

In Genesis 43, Joseph’s brothers returned to Egypt for more grain. Joseph showed them kindness by feeding them at his own home. They knew they didn’t deserve this kindness as their consciences reminded them of what they had done to their brother. After having lunch with them, he planted a cup in Benjamin’s bag that was found later after they left. When he said Benjamin had to go to jail, Judah stood up and offered an act of kindness by saying he would take the punishment for Benjamin. When Joseph saw this, he knew their hearts had changed and he revealed himself to them. Forgiveness and restoration took place because kindness (goodness in action) was demonstrated when they didn’t deserve it.

Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and helpful to one another, tender-hearted [compassionate, understanding], forgiving one another [readily and freely], just as God in Christ also forgave you” (AMP). It’s not just God’s kindness that leads to repentance, it’s our goodness in action and forgiveness that points them to Jesus too. Who in your life least deserves kindness from you? We are to readily and freely forgive others just as Jesus readily and freely forgave us. We need to show kindness to those who have wronged us rather than to seek revenge. Pray for wisdom from God to help you forgive others and to show you ways to express His kindness to those who wronged you and to others you meet. We know that when others see our good works and goodness in action, they’ll glorify God and turn to Him.

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

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October 25, 2019 · 5:51 AM

Be Ye Kind

One of the Fruits of the Spirit that seems to be ever diminishing in our world today is kindness. With having placed an importance on other fruits, the ability to be friendly, generous and considerate to others, especially those we disagree with, has escaped us. Instead, many of us have adopted the “kill or be killed” attitude as a defense mechanism. That’s the opposite of what Jesus taught. He told us to love our enemies, and to do good to them expecting nothing in return. We are not to repay evil for evil, but are to be kind to even those who are against us. Why? Because we are a reflection of the Father, and the Bible says that it’s God’s kindness that leads us (and our enemies) to repentance.

Jesus even told the Parable of the Good Samaritan. It was the Samaritan who was honored in the story because he showed kindness to his neighbor. If we are on,y being kind to those who like us, how are we any different than the world? The great news is that Holy Spirit is at work in your life. Ask Him to plant seeds of kindness in your heart so He can produce that fruit. Each of us can stand to be more kind to others. In today’s world, that would really cause us to stand out, but it would also help us to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Kindness matters, and so do the eternal destiny of every person around you. God’s desire is that none would perish, so let’s show His kindness to everyone we meet.

Here are some Bible verses on kindness.

1. But instead be kind and affectionate toward one another. Has God graciously forgiven you? Then graciously forgive one another in the depths of Christ’s love.

Ephesians 4:32 TPT

2. This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another.

Zechariah 7:9 NLT

3. But I say to you who hear [Me and pay attention to My words]: Love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, [make it a practice to] do good to those who hate you, bless and show kindness to those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

LUKE 6:27-28 AMP

4. By our purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness we have shown ourselves to be God’s servants—by the Holy Spirit, by our true love, by our message of truth, and by the power of God. We have righteousness as our weapon, both to attack and to defend ourselves.

2 Corinthians 6:6-7 GNT

5. Let love and kindness be the motivation behind all that you do.

1 Corinthians 16:14 TPT

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April 12, 2019 · 5:58 AM

Showing Kindness

When I was a kid I learned about the Fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5. We talked a lot about love and joy, but I think the least talked about one is kindness. We could use a lot more of that one in today’s world. We’ve become so focused on trying not to offend others that we’ve forgotten the importance of kindness. Caring for and putting the needs of others is what kindness is all about. In fact, research has found that kindness is the most important predictor of satisfaction and stability in a marriage. I would argue that the same goes for all relationships.

The reason it’s a Fruit of the Spirit is because it’s the opposite of what our flesh wants. Naturally we are selfish people who look out for ourselves most. The Greatest Commandment is to love God and to love others as yourself. Showing kindness is one of the best ways to do this. It breaks down walls and builds bridges. It costs you nothing to be kind to someone, but yields an incredible return. Today, look for an opportunity to be kind to someone, especially someone who doesn’t deserve it. God’s love in action through you may be just what they need.

Here are some Bible verses on kindness.

1. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

Romans 12:8 NLT

2. But I say to you who hear [Me and pay attention to My words]: Love [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for] your enemies, [make it a practice to] do good to those who hate you, bless and show kindness to those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

LUKE 6:27-28 AMP

3. If you oppress poor people, you insult the God who made them; but kindness shown to the poor is an act of worship.

Proverbs 14:31 GNT

4. A man of kindness attracts favor, while a cruel man attracts nothing but trouble.

Proverbs 11:17 TPT

5. So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.

Colossians 3:12-14 MSG

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December 7, 2018 · 5:52 AM

Your Access Privileges

Because of my status with a certain hotel chain, whenever I travel, I get access to a concierge lounge. Every morning they serve a free hot breakfast that other guests can’t get. In the evenings, they serve hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Many times this lounge is in full view of other guests, but it’s behind a locked door that only certain guests’ keys can access. I’m often asked what you have to do to get access to that room. I let them know that it’s reserved for those who are loyal to that brand and stay a ton of nights a year with that hotel chain. While this lounge is great, there are many times when I’m so busy that I don’t take advantage of it.

As Christians, you and I have access to so much that God has to offer. He has given us privileges and rights that can only be accessed by those who have faith and rely on the grace of His Son Jesus. Sadly, many of us struggle through life without taking advantage of these benefits reserved for us. Sometimes it’s because we don’t spend time in prayer, other times it’s because we haven’t read the Bible enough to know what’s available and sometimes we don’t see ourselves as worthy of these gifts. Today, begin to seek God for these benefits that He has promised us access to. There’s more that God has for you if you’ll believe.

Here are some Bible verses on things we have access to.

1. Now we’re no longer living like slaves under the law, but we enjoy being God’s very own sons and daughters! And because we’re his, we can access everything our Father has—for we are heirs of God through Jesus, the Messiah!

Galatians 4:7 TPT

2. Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives.

1 Corinthians 1:4-6 MSG

3. And that’s not all. You will have complete and free access to God’s kingdom, keys to open any and every door: no more barriers between heaven and earth, earth and heaven. A yes on earth is yes in heaven. A no on earth is no in heaven.

Matthew 16:19 MSG

4. This is in accordance with [the terms of] the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him [that is, our faith gives us sufficient courage to freely and openly approach God through Christ].

EPHESIANS 3:11-12 AMP

5. Our faith guarantees us permanent access into this marvelous kindness that has given us a perfect relationship with God. What incredible joy bursts forth within us as we keep on celebrating our hope of experiencing God’s glory!

Romans 5:2 TPT

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August 11, 2017 · 5:25 AM

God’s Kindness


A.W. Tozer wrote, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” I can tell you that usually it is an adjective or an attribute. So many think of God as a disciplinarian in the sky waiting for us to mess up so He can send us to hell. I don’t believe that description is true. Who would spend everything they have on something, then wait around and hope it fails? God paid for our sins with the death of His Son. That description doesn’t make sense. 

One that does, and we rarely discuss, is His kindness. It’s not usually how we choose to describe God, but it’s one of the most accurate descriptions of Him. He is kind to you and me because of how much He loves us. He is constantly doing things for our good, and we hardly give Him credit for it. Today, let’s reflect on God’s kindness and look for the areas where He’s been kind to us. You’ll find that He’s shown you a lot more kindness than He has wrath. 

Here’s some Bible verses that discuss His kindness. 

1. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding.
Ephesians 1:6-8 NLT

2. But You, O GOD, the Lord, show kindness to me, for Your name’s sake; Because Your lovingkindness (faithfulness, compassion) is good, O rescue me;
PSALM 109:21 AMP

3. As the scripture says, “He gives generously to the needy; his kindness lasts forever.”
2 Corinthians 9:9 GNT

4. As God’s partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God’s kindness and then ignore it.
2 Corinthians 6:1 NLT

5. How happy are the people who worship you with songs, who live in the light of your kindness!
Psalm 89:15 GNT

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