Kindness is on My Mind this Week!
Kindness is more than just being polite or courteous; it is a divine attribute, a fruit of the Spirit that will transform hearts and minds. In Galatians 5:22, we are reminded that kindness is a natural product of a life guided by the Holy Spirit. It is an active attribute that is intentional and a selfless way of living. When we show kindness, we seek to uplift and encourage others without expecting anything in return. True kindness is not transactional, ego-driven, or performed for accolades. It is a reflection of God’s love working through us.
The Strength of Kindness
Often, kindness is mistaken for weakness. Societal norms equate power with dominance, control, or the ability to respond forcefully to opposition. However, anything that comes from the Holy Spirit is a source of strength. Kindness, when rooted in Christ, requires self-restraint, humility, and spiritual maturity. Jesus Himself demonstrated this when He chose not to retaliate against His oppressors but instead remained as a lamb led to the slaughter. His power was revealed not in retaliation but in His ultimate resurrection. In the same way, when we choose to walk in kindness instead of engaging in conflict, we demonstrate true strength. In Romans 8:36, Apostle Paul describes us as sheep - "As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter." And he shares again in 2 Cor. 13: 4 - "For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you." Jesus seemed weak and defeated in death, but God raised Him from the dead with all power given to Him. There's no weakness and kindness only strength in God to be gained.
What Does Kindness Look Like?
Is kindness just the way we speak, or is it primarily shown in our actions? The answer is both. Genuine kindness is evident in our words and deeds, as well as in how we treat ourselves. Can we extend grace and kindness to others while neglecting ourselves? The kindness of God transforms us from within so that we can pour out love without depleting ourselves. So, be kind to yourself! Love yourself enough to give yourself needed grace, patience, and love.
Kindness is about letting our light shine before others so that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16). It is an intentional practice, an embodiment of Christ’s love that reflects His goodness to the world. Kindness has the power to transform hearts, brighten days, and spread love in ways we may never fully see the fruit that it yields.
Pseudo-Kindness: When Kindness is Not Kindness
Not all acts that appear kind are rooted in genuine love. The Bible warns us about deceptive kindness: "The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart; his words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords." (Psalm 55:21).
Proverbs 27:14 also cautions us: "He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, it shall be counted a curse to him." This kind of outwardly exaggerated kindness, performed for attention or personal gain, is not the kindness that flows from the Holy Spirit. True kindness is an offspring of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), while pseudo-kindness is self-serving, deceitful, manipulative, or performative. This type of kindness in unfruitful.
The Power of Restraint: Kindness in Action
Kindness is deeply connected to temperance—self-restraint and self-control. The world may view our refusal to engage in hostility as weakness, but it is actually a powerful spiritual stance. Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:17, "Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh." When we choose not to retaliate, not to "check" someone just to prove a point, we are walking in a greater power. Our strength lies in our ability to rise above temporary conflicts for a higher purpose. This is often so hard to do! It takes strength!
Jesus rose with all power, not because He overpowered His enemies in the moment, but because He operated from a place of divine authority. He laid down His life; no man took it away! When we model His example, we too will walk in victory. Kindness is not weakness; it is strength under control. It is looking at the greater picture. Checking if our light is shining.
The True Power of Kindness
Again, kindness is a fruit of the Spirit, a divine trait that requires humility, patience, and unwavering faith. It is not about seeking validation, gaining favor, or proving a point. When we truly understand who we are in Christ, we do not hunger and thirst for recognition or retaliation. Instead, we move in the power of the Holy Spirit, allowing kindness to shape our interactions, transform our communities, and ultimately glorify God.
Let’s reflect, challenge ourselves, and be reminded to Let Our Light Shine!
Random Acts of Kindness List
Monday – Send a handwritten note to a friend or family member. (Proverbs 16:24)
Tuesday – Pay it forward (coffee, meal, or small blessing for someone). (Hebrews 13:16)
Wednesday – Speak words of encouragement. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Thursday – Surprise someone with a small gift. (James 1:17)
Friday – Support a local business or charity. (Proverbs 19:17)
Saturday – Serve someone in need. (Philippians 2:4)
Sunday – Speak life and uplift someone in prayer. (Proverbs 18:21)
Blessings & Love
Dr. Pamela Cone
PAMELA R. CONE, M.A. in Ministry – Biblical Studies, D.Th. h.c.
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