The Grace of Kindness

Kindness. In ‘Middle English’ (used from 1100 to 1500 AD) kindness is defined as ‘well disposed by nature’ - meaning having a positive, sympathetic, or friendly attitude towards someone or something.

Biblically it means an action and a way of life, often linked to loving kindness. In Hebrew its often based on a covenant relationship and unfailing love.

Kindness is marked by acts of generosity, consideration and concern for others. Expecting no praise or reward in return. It’s related, to the concepts of love, mercy and compassion. Its a noun, a quality. Its not soft or a lesser quality seen in people of small consequence. It is powerful as it requires strength, determination, sacrifice and disregard of criticism. Its a quality of the highest value that rises above feelings and self. Kindness is compassion in action. Kindness understands Grace.

God is kindness.

Proverbs 21:21 ESV  “Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honour”

Ephesians 2:6-7 NIV “And God raised us up with Christ….in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus”

Jeremiah 9:24 NLT “…I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight…”

Romans 2:4b NLT “…God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance..”

Titus 3:4-5 “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.”

Out of His kindness God shows us compassion. What does the mean in your relationship with Him?