In what ways can we show kindness to others, as David did to Mephibosheth? Kindness Recognizes Relationship “Jonathan your father made me swear an oath to show kindness to you.” David’s kindness began with a covenant memory. (2 Samuel 9:1–7) •Remember shared commitments: spouse, family, church, community. •Keep promises, even long after others forget. •Honor earlier generations: “Children’s children are a crown to the aged.” (Proverbs 17:6) Kindness Seeks Out the Forgotten “Then King David sent for him.” (2 Samuel 9:5) •Look for those overlooked: widows, shut-ins, refugees, foster kids. •Invite rather than wait to be asked. •Follow Jesus’ pattern: “The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10) Kindness Restores Dignity “Mephibosheth … fell facedown … David said, ‘Do not fear.’” (2 Samuel 9:6-7) •Speak words that lift up, not shame. (Ephesians 4:29) •Show respect regardless of status or disability. •Give time and eye contact—small acts that say, “You matter.” Kindness Provides Generously “I will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul.” (2 Samuel 9:7) •Meet real needs—food, rent, transportation. (James 2:15-16) •Share talents: tutoring, job referrals, repairs. •Give without strings attached: “Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8) Kindness Invites to the Table “You will always eat at my table.” (2 Samuel 9:7) •Practice hospitable meals—invite neighbors, co-workers, singles. •Create safe spaces where people belong. •Remember Jesus’ call: “When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.” (Luke 14:13) Kindness Endures “So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, because he always ate at the king’s table.” (2 Samuel 9:13) •Move beyond one-time gestures; build ongoing friendship. •Check in regularly—texts, visits, shared worship. •Persevere: “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” (Galatians 6:9) Kindness Mirrors God’s Heart David’s mercy reflects the covenant faithfulness of the LORD: “The LORD is gracious and compassionate.” (Psalm 145:8) •We love because He first loved us. (1 John 4:19) •Our kindness points others to Christ. (Matthew 5:16) |
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