Kindness

Galatians 5:22,23

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law."

Kindness implies having a tender concern for those around us, which is exemplified by our having a desire to listen to the trials another is going through so that we can offer him comfort and encouragement, having a passion for serving those in need, willingly giving of the resources God has graciously given to us, etc. Some Christians may be able to give financial support, while another could give time and a helping hand. Others may have a compassionate heart and supportive words, while another may be a great prayer warrior. God has blessed each believer with a different gift, and they are all equally used by Him. 

Do not be dismayed if all you can give are a few encouraging words, for by encouragement the spirit is lifted - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing." Galatians 6:2 "Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

Do not think yourself useless if all you can give is a helping hand through hard labor, for by your work you support those who are weaker than you - Acts 20:35 "I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" 

Do not think your gift is small if all you can offer are heartfelt prayers, for God works miracles through the prayers of the godly - James 5:16b "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much."

 

All of these gifts can be greatly used by God to show others how much He truly loves them and desires that they come to Him. We ought to strive to treat those around us with a gentle compassion, just as Christ shows His gentleness to us every day. By our kind words and gentle servitude, may God use our testimony to show others the compassion that Christ has for them.

Epehsians 4:32 

"And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you."