Dear Sisters in Christ,
Think of our modern-day world, especially this past year. Think of people's behavior. Think of behavior by politicians, radio talk show hosts, people on the news, and even those on social media.
How would you describe their behavior? (Maybe even yours?)
For the most part, not good; because our nation is extremely divided right now.
Truth is, a lot of these people show the exact opposite of biblical kindness. I am not saying we can expect non-Christians to behave like Christians. However, what about us? How have we been acting? It is always good to be checking in with ourselves on these issues.
In the original manuscripts of the bible, the greek word for kindness was Chrestotes (Kress-toh-tez; this is a translation I heard. If any Greek scholars see this pronunciation is incorrect, please tell me!) This has a few different meanings such as:
-Useful
-Useful for others
-Pleasant
-Having integrity or value in relationships with others
This brings me back to the verse Ephesians 4:29:
"Let no filthy or abusive language enter your lips. Let your words be helpful and good, so that they may help and encourage those who listen."
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| From Walt Disney Studios |
There are many ways we can give kindness; but oftentimes, we think about kindness in our words, spoken or typed. As Christians, we are to treat brothers and sisters as well as those in the world as fellow image-bearers of God. Are the words you utter really, truly going to be useful to the person hearing it? Is it helpful?
And in the context of today's world, is what you say, type, or share contributing to the rising division of today's world? Is it demeaning, abusive, or unhelpful? Then, if so, in the context of the biblical meaning of kindness, it is wrong. Things that harm, hurt, or push others away from God are not kind. Gossip, slander, abusive or harsh language, dishonesty, bullying, humiliating others are all things that have no place in the life of someone proclaiming to follow God.
We are to be kind to others even when they are people we aren't crazy about. (Luke 6:32, Matthew 7:12.) And since every human being regardless of political affiliation, monetary status, fame, background, race, ethnicity, etc. is made in God's image, we don't discriminate our kindness.
Kindness is love in action, my friends.
God has been so tenderhearted, patient, and of course, kind, with us. Do the things you do, and the words you say or type, truly reflect God's character to the world? Is it going to pour more hatred into an already divided world?
If we truly want to be transformed and set apart in this world, then choose to not participate in speech, or actions which only cause harm. (Romans 12:2.)
The more we pursue a relationship with God, the more our character should be changing to be more like Him. If your actions and character are not evolving to be more like Him, then it's time to take a hard look at our lives and ask if we really have been spending enough time with Him. We should also ask if our pride is preventing us from really being honest with ourselves about the things we know we shouldn't be doing. Pride can hinder our growth and walk with God as well.
Sisters, this week, please consider how you can pour more kindness and goodness into the world around you. Consider how your words and your deeds can be more helpful. Let's make this world a more beautiful place.
Love,
Chelsea
