KINDNESS AND GENTLENESS

 Are there people in your life that 'push your buttons' so to speak? Probably the last thing you want to do is love them and be kind to them. Guess what ? That is what Jesus expects of us. Scripture tells us to forgive, love, be kind and basically to 'move on'. You might think that is a pretty tall order especially if someone has hurt you, hurt or killed a family member or friend, sued you, stolen from you and a host of other scenarios. Anger and revenge is not part of God's plan. It will not get you closer to Him.

I recall hearing a story once about a mother who prayed for her son's killer who was in prison and how this supernatural act later helped to lead this young man to the Lord. Taking revenge is not our job. We may feel we deserve a cash settlement when someone has killed or murdered (worst case scenario) but really in the big scheme of things we are to love these people trying to hurt you, with the love only Jesus can give.

What does it take to be kind? In Proverbs 31 the chapter most often referred to as 'The Virtuous Woman'  chapter, there is a verse in Proverbs 31:26 that says "When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness." Further in scripture it says in Ephesians 4:32 that we are to "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Are you able to be kind to everyone in your path? Concerning revenge, Proverbs 19:11 tells us "A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Just blow it off. Forget it. Lawyers will not like you very well if you do not want to go after every one that has done something bad to you. Matthew 6:14 reminds us "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." The person may not even be around you but you can pray and say " God I forgive this person for hurting me".

Being nice when you do not feel like it takes some real discipline. You will be a kinder more peaceful person if you are able to just let things go. When you are treated poorly ,humanly speaking, you hurt and are angry. You need to ask God to give Him His love for people like only He can. Pray for your enemies too. It says that in the Bible in Matthew 5:44.

Kindness is one of the fruits of the spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22. Why not start today to make kindness a priority in your life. Little acts of simple kindness such as opening a door at a store for a stranger, taking a shopping cart back where it belongs or even picking up something in a store aisle you did not even drop. Perhaps motioning for a car to pull out ahead of you. Maybe letting someone go before you in line who has less items than you. But in your home you should be the kindest of all and think of ways to please and show love and kindness to those you love on a daily basis. Make it a priority and your life will be much better.

PRAYER: Father I choose to be kind and loving and not hateful and revengeful. I want to find ways to show kindness to those around me. Make me aware when I can do this. Help me Lord as I seek to know you better through your Holy Scriptures for it is only through daily reading and study I can expect to really be transformed and make kindness a regular part of my life. In Jesus Name. Amen.