Our Bible study tonight focussed on the fruit of the Spirit kindness. Kindness is sorely needed in a world that seems intent on shouting loudly at those with differing opinions, but God’s kindness fuels actions. God has drawn us with loving kindness (Jer 31:3), the Hebrew word being ‘chesed’ which encompasses kindness, mercy, steadfast love, covenant faithfulness, grace and loyalty. It’s how God describes Himself in Ex 34;6-7, and it is His kindness which shapes our kindness.
In Psalm 136 we read that God’s kindness is ‘beyond the vanishing point’ (in other words, we cannot ever outrun God’s kindness.) Micah 6:8 tells us that we should have kindness and in the New Testament this virtue is described as being very useful. Kindness is seen primarily in our behaviour towards others; Matt 11:28-30 reminds us that the yoke God offers us is easy or kind. The yoke reminds us of two animals working together; Jesus reminds us that we are called to work alongside Him in kindness.
As God works in us, He develops kindness in us. How can we show kindness this week?