God’s Diplomats: Conduct Code (Kindness)
Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience…
Colossians 3:12 (ESV)
God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance…
Romans 2:4 (NIV)
Actors, models, and talent for Christ:
If God’s kindness is intended to lead men to repentance,
If repentance is intended to lead men to salvation,
Then kindness is a key ingredient in your ministry!
Because most of the world is mean and harsh, outsiders note when someone shows kindness. It’s sadly unusual behavior. Therefore, kindness is appreciated! Consider some common acts of kindness:
Opening a door or changing a tire,
Letting someone ahead of you in line,
Carrying a bag for the elderly,
Saying ‘Have a good day’ and meaning it,
Thanking a grouchy cashier (sincerely),
Complimenting workers in smaller jobs,
Sharing your win with those who assisted,
Giving up your seat in a crowded place,
Asking an outcast to come eat with you,
Interrupting your plans to help someone,
Checking up on friends you’ve been forgetting,
Befriending a loner others reject…
Possibilities to act in kindness will be presented to you every day– either in front of you or in your thoughts. God is testing you to see what you’ll do.
Speaking for myself, I’ve failed countless times… for one bad reason: I was self-absorbed… considering my own needs and goals first. BUSTED!
Here’s my big concern: Kindness may be spontaneous or planned, but both ways, it’s vital for believers to reflect the King of kindness: Jesus! Two Qs:
If we don’t, is our faith real or wasted?
Are self-centered Christians… really Christians?
God’s Diplomats: Conduct Code, Kindness (Part 8)
* Bible verses about kindness: https://www.openbible.info/topics/kindness