Have you ever wondered how you can demonstrate the Christian life to those around you that may or may not be followers of Jesus? How about being kind to one another? I remember taking a class on the book of Luke by one of my teachers at the seminary, but the most important thing he taught was living out the Christian life. Many people are great scholars but that does not make you an individual of exceptional character. This teacher modeled kindness each day he taught in the classroom and his example made me want to grow in this fruit of the Spirit.
Kindness is Not Always Returned
When David was on the run from King Saul, he encountered a wealthy man named Nabal. David had 400 men to provide for but did not steal from Nabal’s flock but protected it. Although David was kind to Nabal his kindness was not returned, but this did not negate the importance of being kind. When David’s men asked Nabal for supplies we begin to see the true nature of Nabal.
1 Samuel 25:8So would you be kind to us, since we have come at a time of celebration? Please share any provisions you might have on hand with us and with your friend David.” 9 David’s young men gave this message to Nabal in David’s name, and they waited for a reply.
10 “Who is this fellow David?” Nabal sneered to the young men. “Who does this son of Jesse think he is? There are lots of servants these days who run away from their masters. 11 Should I take my bread and my water and my meat that I’ve slaughtered for my shearers and give it to a band of outlaws who come from who knows where?” [1]
Kindness Changes the World Around Me
Paul tells us we should get dressed spiritually as well as physically and kindness is a choice. Colossians 3:12Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.[2] Kindness is something we can choose to “put on” every day. A choice that can change the environment around us.
Why should we be kind? First, we are to be kind because God is kind to us. Ephesians 2:8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.[3] The other reason we should be kind is that we want people to be kind to us. We want to be treated right. Jesus said in Matthew 7:12 “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. [4]
To hear more about being kind to one another, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/seeking-the-lord-changes-my-life-abigail-david
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.