We are all hungry for the fruit of kindness in our contentious culture.
Meanness seems to abound. But kindness has a hidden power that can't be denied.
Ephesians 4:32 reminds us to be kind to one another, tender and forgiving. That's the life Jesus wants us to live, and the Holy Spirit will empower us to be kind when we feel like being mean (or doing nothing at all).
Do you know that kindness has a hidden power?
Passive kindness is a hidden blessing. When we don't react in anger but withhold our tongues in a spirit of kindness, we secretly bless the other person.
Let me offer an example.
Yesterday, I was in a checkout line at a discount retailer. The cashier was on the phone the entire time, talking with a manager about a truck delivery and making a deposit. Her treatment made me feel insignificant as she bagged my items without saying hello or thank you or looking at me even once.
Anger rose up in me as I watched at least three other people line up behind me. Apparently, this woman was the only employee available to check people out. I don't know why she didn't simply say, "Can I call you back?," especially because she was obviously on the phone with a manager who surely would have understood.
My two children were standing with me. I didn't say a word. As we walked out, my children said, "That was terrible customer service, Mom."
I replied, "You're right. It was terrible. But sometimes, the kindest thing to do is nothing at all. She was working; she wasn't dogging off. I'm sure she wasn't trying to be rude, though it felt that way. I could issue a complaint, but today, I'm deciding to be kind and just let it go."
Please don't think I'm bragging. This is NOT my normal setting! I have complained to managers before and sent emails to company headquarters for bad service. But I sensed the Holy Spirit telling me yesterday to be kind. He knew what that woman could handle, and my secret kindness was more powerful than showing anger.
The hidden power for me? I walked away feeling peaceful and released. When I've done the necessary confronting before (and it is definitely necessary sometimes), I leave all stirred up. But kindness granted me peace, because I was following God's will.
The hidden power for me? I walked away feeling peaceful and released. When I've done the necessary confronting before (and it is definitely necessary sometimes), I leave all stirred up. But kindness granted me peace, because I was following God's will.
Kindness holds hidden powers to transform our own hearts.
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Do you want to feel calmer? Less aggravated? Less weighed down? Try showing kindness, whether in active or passive forms.
Let the Holy Spirit work through you, and listen for the times He prompts you to be kind. Then take action!
Let the Holy Spirit work through you, and listen for the times He prompts you to be kind. Then take action!
He bears this sweet fruit through you. You simply need to be the branch that bears His fruit. Be kind today, and bless someone else while you cultivate peace and godliness in your own heart.
Have a wonderful week!
Blessings and God's peace to you,
Photo from Pexels.com
Reflection questions:
1. What's the kindest thing someone ever did for you?
2. Who needs your kindness most today?
Beautiful example of kindness. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteSo often the obvious is overlooked. Thank you for reminding me how important kindness can be.
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