Have you ever been surprised by kindness? The recipient of a random act of kindness? Perhaps your child made a Cheerio necklace just for you, or a total stranger anonymously paid for your meal. Do you remember the feeling that followed the realization that someone simply wanted to bless you?
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,
clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Colossians 3:12
As the recipient of such kindness, we are reminded that:
- It is refreshing to be seen, encouraged, and loved.
- The Lord uses His people to tangibly share His goodness.
- Even the smallest act of kindness can make a huge difference in a person’s day.
- Receiving kindness sparks a desire to offer it to others.
Personally, I’ve found that those first three points act as fuel to point four. When we are reminded of how loved we are by our Father, it compels us to remind others of how loved they are too! We find ourselves looking for ways to bless others. So, I’ll ask this: when was the last time you accepted the Lord’s invitation to surprise someone with kindness? Maybe you cooked a favorite meal for someone or anonymously left a kind note on their desk. Do you remember the feeling that followed the realization that you were used by God to bless that person in a tangible way?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control;
against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23
The fruit of the Spirit comes dressed in actions of kindness. A kind smile, warm hug, or encouraging word goes a long way in a person’s heart. Chances are that you do this more than you realize simply because you are the Lord’s agent of love. And as you walk through your day, He strategically places you in situations to reflect His love to others – one kind act after another.
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly,
since love covers a multitude of sins.
1 Peter 4:8
Lord, fill us with your Spirit. Spotlight the ones you have placed before us that need the refreshing of your love dressed in kind actions. May we be the carriers of your grace that invites everyone into your presence so that, together, we may hear your loving whisper….
You are adored.
You Are Adored 