The Fruit of the Spirit--Kindness--Day 7

 

Kindness is from the Greek word "chrestoles", which means useful, beneficial, well-fitted.  It comes from the root word "chrestos", which describes what God says is both kind and good.  It also means divine kindness--meeting real needs, in God's way, in His timing.  We have no English adjective that exactly translates.  A form of this word, Crestus, was a common name for a Roman slave. 

Romans 2 reminds us that we all need the kindness of God to draw us to repentance.  2 Corinthians 6 is a picture of true Kingdom work--the good and the bad, working together to advance the ministry of God.  Kindness shown plays an integral part, meeting real needs in God's way and in His timing.  Colossians 3 lists "works of the flesh" and tells us take them off and throw them away.  In their place, there are multiple traits to put on, including kindness--useful, beneficial, well-fitted.  Titus 3 keeps us from thinking too highly of ourselves, lest we look down on those struggling.  We all were born wearing the flesh that desires to do wrong; only by God's goodness, kindness, and mercy can we change into "clothing" that would draw others to Him.  

Galatians 5:16-26 is contrasting the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. Kind has become a buzz word..."In a world where you can be anything, be kind." "Bee Kind"; "Always be humble and kind"; "Choose kindness".  All very good words to live by, great examples of good works. Useful and beneficial.   But these only scratch the surface of the deep kindness that God shows us and wants us to show others.  God calls us to divine kindness, to meet real needs in His way and in His timing.  God's kindness leads us to repentance, draws us to Him.  And as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, we are commanded to Put On kindness, along with compassion, humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness, love--weapons of righteousness in each hand.  So...do the random acts of kindness; smile; be nice; be friendly.  According to Titus, these things are excellent and profitable for people.  But don't stop there.   Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.