"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." [Galatians 5:22-23 NIV]
This New Testament Scripture verse came to mind the other day. Then someone was inspired to write a note, complimenting me in a most unexpected manner. Graciously, I wrote a thank you back to the individual but the incident has continued to impress me. Another human being went out of her was to express her comment and to inquire about the well being of another individual.
One of our modern tendencies, which has been around for years, is to focus on the negative, the sensational or whatever makes the loudest splash or grabs the biggest headline. Sure we have all heard of Oprah's efforts to inspire people to practice "random acts of kindness". Occasionally, our local news programs may even tell the story of someone who went out of his or her way to raise money for someone, to visit elderly people in nursing homes or collect food and clothing for a family in need. Why don't we, you and I, talk about it when someone does something nice for us?
Kindness is included as an element of the fruit of the Spirit. It can be as simple as listening to someone who needs to talk. From my experience, listening is one of the skills that we, with our busy lives, schedules and families, do not exercise enough. Interestingly enough, I have spent hours listening to others since I left active ministry. There have probably been more several times more hours of counseling provided outside of the professional ministry setting. Everyone appreciates it when someone actually takes the time and exercise the art of patient listening.
This discussion barely touches on random kindness. How can you get involved? What are you able to do to show random kindness to others? Who will be the recipient of your kindness? All of us have the ability; may we find the inspiration!
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." [Colossians 3:12-13 NIV]
~ DB Turnmire
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