Be Kind - Rewind!

Here's your charge for this week. Be kind. Turn on the filter. What you say and do affects others. Always consider if it is necessary, true, and loving. If it's not, DON'T. Rewind....reconsider.

Just to be clear here's a definition of Kind: 1. of a friendly, generous, or warm-hearted nature. 2. sympathetic or understanding; charitable. 3. Humane; considerate.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)


Several years ago, the concept of practicing “random acts of kindness” was introduced into our collective vocabulary and value system. It’s a lovely idea—being kind randomly. Not just to others we like or love. Not just when others are kind to us first. Not just when we want something in return. But simply because kindness is good. And passing it along does us good.

At its core, it’s a biblical concept. Thinking of others more highly than ourselves. Being loving not just to our favorite people, but also to the ones we might even consider enemies. Caring for the “least of these,” and in so doing, extending love to our heavenly Father.

But in our busyness and in our sometimes-mean old world, it’s easy to forget this value of kindness. This week, why don’t we change all that and make the world a kinder, gentler place.


Keys to Kindness:
1. Pray for eyes to see the people around you this week who really could use a shot of kindness.

2. Plan an act of kindness to perform each day this week. Take a neighbor some flowers. Tell your favorite Starbucks barista’s boss what a great job she does. Send your pastor a note of encouragement or appreciation.

3. In our tough economy, many people are struggling financially. If you can spare even a small amount, give an anonymous cash gift or gift card (for groceries or gas) to someone you know who really needs it.

4. List the ways God has shown kindness to you. Thank him for his unending, undeserved kindness. Let this motivate you to pass it on.

5. Remember to show kindness to those closest to you: your family. Why not send your parent(s) or sibling(s) a letter of gratitude for their impact on your life?

How has someone showed you kindness? How can you make a better effort to show kindness to others?