Kindness: Love in action is a choice.
Kindness can be risky. We can be misunderstood by others.
-
Being sensitive to others Phil 12:4
- Being aware of the needs of those around us. Kindness always starts with noticing the needs and hurts of others.
- The root of many problems in marriage is insensitivity
- Example of sensitivity and kindness
David and Mephibosheth 2 Sam 9:7,8
-
Be supportive in our talks Prov 15:4
Talking about building up people rather than tearing them down. Nobody likes to be put down. Watch what you say to others. Prov 10:32 (GNT)
Kind people won’t pounce on others’ weaknesses nor embarrass others.
Lucy’s story- Thomas Edison’s mom
Gen 15: 19-21 Joseph
Kind words can build a bridge in a strained relationship. A Christian ought to speak kindly even when given the opportunity to retaliate. Benhur movie.
-
Being sympathetic to others. Rom 12:15 LB
Strong leaders are not afraid to show their emotions. Eg: Ronald Reagan. Weak leaders on the other hand worry about what others think. John 11:35, Titus3:4,5
2 Tim 2:24 Kindness is a mark of spiritual leadership.
If we are not kind to our close people in private then out spiritual leadership in public is a drama. Bob Pears - world vision.
-
Being straight forward Prov 27:6
We sometimes have to hurt people in order to heal like doctors and surgeons.
James Dobson – love must be tough
Care enough o confront others. Eg: Gal 2 : Paul and Peter
When to be confrontational?
- Am I really committed to the other person’s best interest?
- Do I have plans to stick around and help the other person to work out the change?
-
Being spontaneous Gal 6: 10
Do not wait to show kindness. Do it while we have the opportunity. Classic example – The Good Samaritan. Jesus told this story to remind us of all the people around us who are hurting. The number one enemy of kindness is busyness. Ministry of kindness is for everyone.
