How can you show kindness to others in your daily life like David? Opening Scripture “Then David said, ‘I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me.’ So David sent envoys to console him concerning his father.” — 1 Chronicles 19:2 What We Learn from David’s Example • Kindness springs from gratitude: David remembered past mercy and paid it forward. • Kindness acts, it doesn’t just feel: he sent envoys; love moved his feet. • Kindness risks misunderstanding: though later rejected, David’s intent pleased God. Practical Ways to Mirror David’s Kindness Today • Remember those who blessed you – Write a note, send a message, or make a call thanking mentors, parents, friends. • Notice the grieving and lonely – Like David comforting Hanun, attend funerals, drop off meals, sit and listen. • Use position and resources for others’ good – David was king; you have influence at work, school, church—leverage it to lift others. • Be first to extend peace – Hold doors, let cars merge, give genuine compliments; small seeds grow big fruit. • Expect nothing in return – Luke 6:35: “Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return.” Other Biblical Echoes of Kindness • 2 Samuel 9:1: “David asked, ‘Is there anyone remaining from the house of Saul to whom I can show goodness…?’” • Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” • Galatians 6:10: “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, especially to those who belong to the household of faith.” • Proverbs 3:3: “Never let loving devotion and faithfulness leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” • Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” The Ripple Effect of Godly Kindness • Encourages the fainthearted, reflecting God’s own compassion. • Builds bridges across cultures, generations, and social divides. • Models Christ’s love to a watching world (John 13:35). • Sows eternal seeds that God promises to reward (Hebrews 6:10). Living It Out Today Choose one deliberate act of kindness before the day ends—send encouragement, give generously, serve quietly. Let the same Spirit who moved David shape every interaction, until kindness becomes your reflex and Christ is clearly seen. |
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