Kindness

We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience,
 our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.
 2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT

Our children seem to have fewer examples of simple kindness in public life. It used to be called “good manners or politeness”. When we do experience it, we stop and notice. One of God’s most beloved attributes is his kindness. Have you experienced it recently?

In the verse above, Paul implies that we prove ourselves legitimate followers of Jesus and the Father’s true adopted children when we exhibit his character with others. Let’s be honest, in hard times like these we can get pretty grumpy and short tempered. Just generally, some days are harder than others to be understanding, patient and kind.  Paul gives us a no out, however. He does not say we show these qualities when we feel like it or by trying harder! No, instead, he says “by the Holy Spirit within us”.

What does that mean? To me, it reminds me that, especially on those days when I am tired, doing something I would rather not, and maybe am a little depressed, I should take a few extra minutes with the Lord and clear the path for the Holy Spirit in me. I want to be sure I am filled to overflowing with God’s love and the Holy Spirit. When I allow the Holy Spirit to fill me, he comes with all of his “fruit” or character (Galatians 5:22). And, as I give him control, he will ensure that my attitude and actions are rooted in God’s sincere love, and, if I allow him, will release his character through me as needed during the day.

When you take that extra time to start the day off with Jesus and allow the Holy Spirit to be in control that day, have you noticed how much nicer you are?! It’s amazing. Suddenly, joy pops out of us when we least expect it. And we wonder, “Where did those words come from?!”

And by doing so, we make our heavenly Father proud, and hopefully cause others to be curious as to why we are different. People are hungry to know that life with Jesus and the Holy Spirit is the only way to truly live.

Dear friends, be blessed with real joy as you believe the truth that you are stamped “approved” every day because of what Jesus has already done for you.  May the Holy Spirit in you teach you how to rely on him and surprise you as he works his very nature into you.  Be blessed with trusting that God wants to fill your heart to overflowing with his love, peace and kindness any time of the day. Amen.

Mary Sumner ~ October, 2020