But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)
When was the last time you remember someone extending kindness to you? Was it unexpected? How did it make you feel? The truth is, an act of kindness is a blessing to the giver and the receiver. An act of kindness exudes love and compassion and can instantly erase feelings despair or frustration.
Pastor Rick has taught us that love is a choice. Kindness is a quality that we can chose to nurture and develop. Offering kindness to another human being costs little or nothing, we don’t need special training, and God’s word gives us every instruction we need to practice and grow.
Let’s dedicate this week to kindness. Start by being kind to yourself. Forgive yourself for something you regret. If you are tired, take a nap. Think of something you’ve always wanted to do, and make plans to do it. Offering ourselves kindness is a great first step to filling up our love tank so we are overflowing with kindness to others.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Open the door for an elderly person, or better yet, take 20 minutes and help them around the store with their shopping!
- Before you head to the store, check in with your neighbor and ask if you can pick anything up for them while you are out… saving them the trip.
- Call someone who you know has been struggling with loneliness and cheer them up.
- Write a note to your child’s teacher, thanking them for everything they have done to nurture and teach your child this year.
- Offer to walk a neighbor’s dog while you walk yours.
- Affirm your children; share with them how God has uniquely gifted them.
- Write your boss a thank you note and tell him/her how much you appreciate their leadership.
- Offer to babysit for a friend so they can get out and have fun.
- Yield your place in line to someone obviously in a hurry.
- Treat the person behind you in line and buy their coffee or tea.
- Spend an hour at a senior’s home reading or chatting.
- Become a mentor to a young person who needs wise guidance.
Additional Scripture Reading: Kind words cheer you up Proverbs 12:25
We would love to hear about the acts of kindness you witness. Please share them with us! [email protected]
