In what ways can we show kindness to others, as David did in 2 Samuel 10? Setting the Scene “Some time later, the king of the Ammonites died, and his son Hanun became king in his place. And David said, ‘I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.’ ” (2 Samuel 10:1–2) David’s first impulse toward a grieving, foreign ruler was not suspicion or conquest, but kindness. The Hebrew word behind “kindness” is ḥesed—steadfast, covenant love. That heart posture offers a timeless pattern for us. Observing David’s Kindness •He remembered past mercy. Nahash had shown him favor; David now reciprocates (2 Samuel 10:2). •He acted quickly. “David sent some of his servants” right away—kindness didn’t wait for convenience. •He personalized the gesture. Messengers carried condolences to Hanun; it wasn’t a generic note. •He took a risk. Crossing borders during political transition invited misunderstanding, yet love outweighed fear. Practical Ways to Mirror David’s Kindness 1.Remember past blessings •Keep a mental (or written) list of people who have helped you. •Seek tangible ways to return the favor—notes, meals, errands, advocacy. •“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act” (Proverbs 3:27). 2.Move toward the hurting, not away •Attend funerals, hospital rooms, and nursing homes. Presence itself can heal. •Offer condolences personally; a text is good, a visit is better. •“Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). 3.Let kindness cross boundaries •Serve people outside your social circle, political party, or ethnicity. •Find community projects that bless immigrants, prisoners, orphans, widows (James 1:27). •“Love your enemies, do good to them…then your reward will be great” (Luke 6:35). 4.Act promptly and practically •Set a 24-hour rule: when the Spirit nudges, respond the same day. •Prepare a “kindness fund” in your budget for spontaneous giving (Proverbs 3:9). •Keep supplies—cards, stamps, small gifts—on hand so you’re ready. 5.Expect misunderstanding but persist •Hanun misread David’s motives (2 Samuel 10:3–4); kindness can be twisted. •Anchor your actions in God’s approval, not people’s reactions (Colossians 3:23–24). •Pray for soft hearts, including your own. Motivations for Our Kindness •Covenant Identity: We have received God’s everlasting ḥesed in Christ (Psalm 136). •Imitation of Christ: “Be kind and tenderhearted…just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). •Gospel Witness: Practical love authenticates our words (John 13:35). •Eternal Perspective: Every act done for “the least of these” is done for Jesus Himself (Matthew 25:40). Barriers to Kindness and How to Overcome Them " Barrier " Remedy " "---------"--------" " Busyness " Schedule margin; Sabbath rest frees time for others (Mark 2:27). " " Fear of Rejection " Root identity in God’s acceptance (Romans 8:31–39). " " Prejudice " Remember we were outsiders brought near (Ephesians 2:12–13). " " Indifference " Ask God for a heart of flesh, not stone (Ezekiel 36:26). " Kindness That Points to Christ David’s gesture foreshadowed the greater Son of David, who crossed the infinite divide to show covenant love to enemies (Romans 5:8). Every act of kindness we extend becomes a living parable of that gospel. Let’s step out—quickly, personally, sacrificially—so others taste the steadfast love that first found us. |
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