Kindness:

Kindness: The Greek word found in Galatians 5:22 is chrēstotēs. It means, “gentleness, goodness, kindness. From chrestos; usefulness, i.e. Morally, excellence (in character or demeanor).” Chrēstotēs appears in two other Scripture verses: “Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off” (Romans 11:22). “But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:4-7). Titus 3:4-7 reveals the kindness of God through the gift of salvation to all who believe in Him. It beautifully says in verse 4, “But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared.” His kindness came to us. Jesus, the incarnate deity, came to earth to show us the greatest act of kindness and love on the cross at Calvary. Death was defeated and not only that, by the Holy Spirit we too can have access to the fruit of kindness. We can live out and be kind to others in a way that is out of this world. This means that we can live with attitudes of willingness, character and discipline. We can go out of our way to bless other people with our time, words, finances, and prayers. When someone is living out sinful or hurtful ways, we can show the kindness – the mercy of God – that He has shown to us. This is an impossible task in our own strength. We are only able to show kindness because we have received Christ’s kindness. Matthew 5:43-44 says, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Kindness is a noun that describes a quality a person can have. God embodies kindness completely; there is no trace of unkindness in Him. The incredible aspect of the gospel is that we, as humans, often act unkindly. Throughout our lives, we have thought, spoken, and done hurtful things. We are flawed, while God is perfect. He has always thought, spoken, and acted with kindness. You might recall instances in the Bible where God has punished or even destroyed large groups of people due to their wickedness. How can He still be considered kind? Since kindness is part of His nature, it drives Him to take action. Kindness is also linked to justice. Think about a terrible legal case you know about. What wrongs have occurred? Romans 11:22 shows that God is both kind and stern. His sternness comes from His kindness. Just as He is love, He is also just. Romans 2:4 says it best, “Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and restraint and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” The kindness of Jesus has led us to repentance. Our hope and prayer is that when we live out the fruit of kindness to others, that it too will lead them to repentance and freedom in Christ. May His kindness be what we think on, speak out, and show to all we encounter.