“Be kind and loving to each other. Forgive each other the same as God forgave you through Christ.”
By this passage, the Word of God not only commands kindness, but also shows the standard of kindness: God’s forgiveness.
These words remind us that kindness is a living expression of our Christian faith, not only by words, but also by deeds.
The real and true source of kindness is in God and His Word. Kindness comes from Him and can be spread through us—His children.
Kindness is one of the brightest expressions of the human soul. We cannot see kindness by our eyes, but we feel it by our hearts. Kindness does not require big and proud words or demonstrative steps. It is often manifested in the simplest actions: a smile, a willingness to listen, a helping hand, a caring and warm behavior. These kinds of “small” acts change the world, making it warmer and more humane.
Kindness comes from inner peace. When a person is in harmony inside, he/she does not try to prove his/her value at the expense of others. He/she understands that each person has his/her own pain, own struggle, and realizing this gives birth to compassion. From compassion, kindness is born as a natural response to the sufferings of others.
Kindness is also a choice. Every day we face the choice of whether to respond to evil with evil or to keep light and peace inside. When we choose kindness, we not only help others, but we also purify our own souls. It is like turning on a light in the dark: no matter how small that light is, it still dispels the darkness.
Many people think that kindness is a sign of weakness, but in reality, it requires great strength. It is easier to judge, blame, or remain indifferent than to understand, forgive, and support. Kindness requires patience, self-control, and deep faith. It is a strength, which does not destroy, but builds.
Kindness returns to the person who gives it. When we live with kindness, our lives will be filled with meaning. Kindness gives the world hope.
Kindness is the fruit of the Holy Spirit. And as the Word of God says, “But the fruit that the Spirit produces in a person’s life is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness.” (Galatians 5:22 ERV) This means that kindness is not just a human behavior, but the fruit of the Holy Spirit and comes from Him. It acts when a person follows Christ according to His Word and depends only on our faith in Jesus Christ.
So let us depend on our Lord, live in His Word, and be helpful people with His kindness.
May the Lord bless and keep you.
By Taron, Bible League Armenia staff