In what ways can we show kindness to all, as God does? God’s Heart on Display: Psalm 145:9 “The LORD is good to all; His compassion rests on all He has made.” • God’s goodness and compassion are not selective; they cover “all He has made.” • Because Scripture is completely true and trustworthy, we know this is more than poetic language—it is a factual revelation of God’s constant posture toward every person, creature, and corner of creation. Seeing the Lord’s Pattern of Kindness • Matthew 5:44-45 shows the same universal kindness: “He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” • Luke 6:35 affirms that God “is kind to the ungrateful and wicked,” demonstrating undeserved favor. • Romans 2:4 reveals the purpose behind such patience: “God’s kindness leads you to repentance.” • When we imitate this divine pattern, we reflect the Father’s character and participate in His redemptive agenda. Walking in His Footsteps: Practical Expressions of Kindness 1. Words that Build Up • Ephesians 4:32—“Be kind and tenderhearted to one another.” • Speak encouragement, refuse gossip, correct with gentleness. 2. Acts of Generosity • Proverbs 19:17—“Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD.” • Share meals, resources, skills; give without keeping score. 3. Patient Forgiveness • Colossians 3:12—“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness… and patience.” • Release grudges quickly; remember how fully God forgave us. 4. Hospitality to Strangers • Hebrews 13:2—“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” • Invite newcomers, refugees, and outsiders into your home and circle. 5. Advocacy for the Vulnerable • Micah 6:8—“Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” • Stand up for the unborn, the elderly, the poor, and the oppressed; use influence to protect life and dignity. Kindness without Partiality: Reaching Every Circle • Family—start at home; daily kindness trains hearts for bigger fields. • Church—Galatians 6:10 urges special care “to the family of faith”; meet practical needs among believers. • Community—look for neighbors in crisis; organize aid or volunteer. • Workplace—show Christlike courtesy, fairness, and service even when competition is fierce. • Enemies—follow Jesus’ call to “love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44), praying for and actively blessing those who oppose you. Strength to Persist in Kindness • Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Rely on His power, not mere willpower. • Keep Scripture close: Proverbs 3:3—“Never let loving devotion and faithfulness leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” • Remember the reward: “whoever is kind to the needy honors God” (Proverbs 14:31, paraphrase), and eternal harvest awaits every faithful sower (Galatians 6:9). Because the Lord is “good to all,” our lives become living demonstrations of His unfailing compassion when we mirror His kindness—every day, to every person, in every circumstance. |
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