What other biblical examples show God's kindness through human actions? David’s Benchmark of Kindness “So the king asked, ‘Is there anyone left of Saul’s family to whom I can show the kindness of God?’ Ziba answered, ‘There is still Jonathan’s son, who is lame in both feet.’ ” (2 Samuel 9:3) • David’s action becomes a touchstone: God’s covenant love (“hesed”) reaches people through obedient hands and hearts. Joseph’s Forgiving Provision “God sent me before you to preserve you a remnant in the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.” (Genesis 45:7) • Joseph feeds the very brothers who sold him. • His mercy pictures God’s larger plan to rescue and sustain His people. Boaz’s Redeeming Generosity “May the LORD repay your work… under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” (Ruth 2:12) • Boaz shields Ruth and Naomi from poverty and shame. • He foreshadows Christ, the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer. Rahab’s Protective Faith “Please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you.” (Joshua 2:12) • Rahab risks her life for the spies. • Her household is saved, and she enters Messiah’s lineage—evidence that God’s kindness crosses national lines. The Widow of Zarephath’s Risky Hospitality “The jar of flour was not exhausted and the jug of oil did not run dry, according to the word of the LORD.” (1 Kings 17:16) • She shares her last meal with Elijah, trusting God’s word. • Her obedience opens a daily, miraculous supply for her family. The Shunammite’s Ongoing Care “Please let us make a small room on the roof… then he can stay there whenever he comes to us.” (2 Kings 4:10) • Her thoughtful provision for Elisha leads to the gift of a son and later his resurrection—God rewarding kindness with life. The Compassionate Samaritan’s Costly Mercy “But when a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, he looked at him and had compassion.” (Luke 10:33) • He binds wounds, pays lodging, promises follow-up. • Jesus frames the story as a living portrait of God’s own mercy. Barnabas and the Open-Handed Church “There were no needy ones among them… they would sell their property… lay the proceeds at the apostles’ feet.” (Acts 4:34-35) • Barnabas (“son of encouragement”) models encouragement by giving land proceeds. • The Spirit knits believers together through radical generosity. Dorcas’ Tangible Compassion “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha… who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity.” (Acts 9:36) • Widows display the garments she made. • God honors her kindness by raising her from the dead through Peter. Philemon’s Restorative Welcome “…that you might have him back for good, no longer as a slave, but… a beloved brother.” (Philemon 15-16) • Paul urges Philemon to receive Onesimus as family, mirroring God’s reconciliation of sinners. Seeing the Thread • From patriarchs to prophets, widows to wealthy landowners, God repeatedly channels His loyal love through people. • Every act—small or great—echoes the same melody: “that I may show the kindness of God.” • When believers step forward in obedient compassion, heaven’s heart is made visible on earth. |
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