In Matthew 7:12, Jesus teaches us a simple but profound rule about kindness. He says, "In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets." We know it as the Golden Rule. To understand this, we must understand what it means to be kind. I think of words like compassion, selfless love, and thoughtfulness, to name a few. It is putting others above yourself.
One simple act of kindness can spread like a virus and infect everyone it touches. For some, showing kindness is effortless; while, for others, this may require more effort. However, I believe that this is not impossible. So, I think of how I want anyone to treat me and will treat them better than that, whether they deserve it or not. Besides, it is among the Fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23, NASB).
It is challenging for most, especially given how unpleasant many have become. Then I must ask, why are you being kind? Is it to gain the affection of others? Is it to receive accolades and attention? Or does it come from your heart? Can you still be kind when somebody is mean and nasty? Though being kind does not require us to allow somebody to take advantage of us, Christ teaches us how to go beyond the norm when applying acts of kindness. (Matthew 5:40-41).
So, today, I challenge you to stretch your kindness by putting the love of God on display. Go the extra mile in serving others even if they do not deserve it. When I was a Substitute Teacher, during some of my long-term assignments, I would work overtime, though I knew I would not receive any extra pay. Even when I see anybody in need, I offer my assistance without anyone asking. I cannot help but do something.
You, too, can do this. In times of conflict, try to settle matters before everything escalates and gets out of control. It takes a good-hearted person to take the blame, though it was not your fault. Even learning when to have shut-mouth grace rather than defending yourself can de-escalate a situation. It is not about who says the last word but who exercises wisdom to defuse the situation. It is not always the one who uses their influence to manipulate it in their favor, but the person who makes the selfless sacrifice to bring God glory. (Luke 6:45).
Praying and checking on others are great ways to be thoughtful, but people also need a tangible gesture that says I care about you. So, the next time someone is unpleasant, be kind. Make the sacrifice to say or do something kind, though this is the hardest thing to do. Then stretch your kindness beyond how somebody mistreated you so they can see you are a light-bearer. In other words, try to make your adversary your friend. Now go and allow your kindness to be contagious! The world needs kind people!
I pray the song, Greater Than Your Love by Elevation Worship stirs your heart to allow your kindness to be contagious like the love of God.
TIME FOR REFLECTION: Share with us a time you found it challenging to be kind and how you conquered that challenge. Leave your comment below, hit that heart, and share.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Nurturing Interpersonal Relationships
Read more about stretching kindness in my newest book release -Insights from Christ -Priceless Values from The Beatitudes
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