KINDNESS

TUESDAY 01 FEBRUARY 2022

Kindness is the Greek word, "chréstotés." Kindness is divine and so, according to the Greek definition, it is a Spirit-produced goodness which meets need genuinely and avoids human harshness (cruelty). It is goodness, excellence, uprightness that are quite useful to others and serviceable. God is so rich in kindness and according to Romans 2:1-4 (NIV), He shows the riches of His kindness, forbearance and patience to all men, as His righteous judgment.

Reference: Acts 28:1-2 New International Version (NIV) "Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta. The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold."

Strong winds blew Paul's ship as they sailed along the shore of Crete. It was a very long wind of hurricane force, called the Northeaster, and it swept down from the island. Though they experienced a shipwreck, yet according to God's word to Paul through an Angel, everyone reached the land safely, as Paul was driven ashore to the Island known as Malta.

In kindness to Paul, the islanders allowed him and others with him to enjoy their company and they showed Paul unusual kindness. They built a fire amid the rain and cold, and welcomed them all, as well as "providing" for their immediate needs. Based on their actions, their motives for assisting Paul could be interpreted in two possible ways: They were far from any eager pursuit of any favour or profits from Paul and his colleagues, and they didn't help Paul in order to gain human honour and recognition, which many inordinately desire.

No wonder our referenced Scripture stated that the islanders showed them unusual kindness, which are both spiritually and logically sound, as in, well thought out and carefully considered in both ways. Thus, one may similarly assume that the spiritually sound interpretation is the one that the Scripture in Matthew 6:2 means to convey. It reads, "So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honoured by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward." Whenever you possibly can, as long as it's in your ability or power to show kindness or offer help of any kind, do it wholeheartedly, for Proverbs 3:27 says, "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it" (ESV).

Embracing the principle of showing unusual kindness is of beneficial effect in any area of life, as well as in wide range of divergent situations. It can help encourage others to do the same and be productive in their Christian faith, which also improves their ability and chances to make personal progress by the wisdom of the Spirit. Therefore, as God's own people, we must learn more about the principle of kindness towards others in need, and always implement it in practice, as effectively as possible. Ephesians 4:32 (ESV) says, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted..."

Moreover, the greatest kindness we often experience is God's faithfulness and compassion. According to Petrine epistle in 1 Peter 5:10 (NLT), the Bible says, "In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation." Beloved, God's mercy is the product of His kindness, faithfulness and glory. No matter where you find yourself or the situation you experience, always expect His kindness, speak it forth and grasp the reality. Shalom!

Scripture Reading - Proverbs 31:26; Luke 6:35; Acts 14:17; Galatians 6:10; Colossians 3:12-13; 1 Peter 3:8-9; 1 John 3:18.

Guided Prayer: Father in heaven, I thank you for teaching me your Word in relation to the dispensation of your riches in kindness and the abundance of divine economy, which denote the administration of your mercy and grace. When the opportunity arises, I'm inspired to do good as led by the Spirit, and show kindness, especially to those who are of the house of faith, and I receive great rewards, part of which is in heaven and part on earth, in Jesus' Name, Amen!