In our fast-paced and digitally connected world, kindness can seem fleeting. But is it really – or does it just appear this way? Furthermore, does kindness really matter?
According to Galatians 5:22, kindness is a Fruit of the Spirit. Consequently, regardless of where culture places kindness on its scale of importance, if emulating Jesus is a priority in our lives, then kindness is not optional. It is mandatory.
Here is what I love about kindness: it is a choice. No matter our days, circumstances, or hectic schedules, the way we treat those around us is, well, completely up to us.
Oh, how I have fallen short of the opportunity of kindness so many times. It is especially easy to let my guard down around those that know me best. It can also be easy to fall into the trap of hurriedness through my days without speaking to and engaging others. But, friends, I know better.
While I am forgiven by amazing grace, I am fortified by the daily reminder that God created each and every human being in His image. And, as a result, it is our duty to treat those around us with dignity, respect, compassion, and empathy.
Proverbs 16:24 (NIV) states, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
I should add it is important we show ourselves this same kindness. We can be our toughest critic at times, but self-love is kindness. And, sometimes kindness may require the need for boundaries around our time and relationships for our own protection and replenishment. Ultimately, I’ve learned, I can pour more from a full rather than a depleted cup.
That being said, let’s take a look at how kindness can play out in our day-to-day lives.
How many times have you experienced a random act of kindness, and instantly your day improved? Maybe you felt more optimistic and a little lighter on your feet. Or, when have you offered kindness to another only to see their face light up at the fact they have experienced an act of love? What if you knew the kind word you offered may be the only one another person hears in their day?
I have seen beautiful merchandise promoting kindness and taken note of kindness challenges encouraging others to do this good work for a specified period of time. These are wonderful ideas, because visual reminders prompt us and help us begin to establish patterns. But, we know habits are formed over time and with repetition.
And, friends, lean in closely and take a deep breath for this next part: we can have different viewpoints from others, choose to hold our values close, but still agree to disagree in love. Seeing the world differently shouldn’t drive us apart; it should encourage us to get to know each other better.
What if we joined together to make kindness not just something we focus on for a day, month or week, but something we make part of our daily routines for the long haul? Through this intentionality, I am certain we will see the benefits of our commitment to those around us. And, we may just see a vibrant garden of others-devotedness take root in our hearts as well.
Where can you focus your kindness today?
Rooted in Grace and Grit 
Thank you for this wonderful devotion….
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what deep and wonderful words this versiculo has.❤️
Proverbs 16:24 (NIV) states, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
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