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Kindness


Introduction

Kindness holds a special place in the Bible, woven into its teachings as a reflection of God's love and mercy. For Christians, understanding and practicing kindness is vital, as it showcases qualities such as empathy, compassion, and forgiveness. The Bible presents kindness as more than just an act; it is a heartfelt quality that enhances one's character and strengthens communities. Through biblical examples and verses, the lessons on kindness encourage believers to approach others with openness and sincerity, nurturing a spirit of goodwill and harmony among all.

Translations

Hebrew Word: חֵסֵד

Transliterate: Checed

Pronounced: kheh sed

Strongs No: H2617

Definition: Goodness, Kindness, Faithfulness. Checed highlights a deep sense of commitment to one's fellow human beings. It emphasizes the importance of showing grace even when it may not be deserved.


Greek Word: φιλαδελφία

Transliterate: Philadelphia

Pronounced: fil ad el fee' ah

Strongs No: G5360

Definition: Brotherly Love, Mutual Affection. Philadelphia highlights the importance of treating others with empathy, compassion, and understanding, promoting unity and harmony within communities.


Latin Word: Benignitas

Transliterate: Benignitas

Pronounced: beh nihg ni tahs

Definition: Goodwill, Generosity. Benignitas emphasizes the act of giving without expecting anything in return, promoting selflessness and generosity towards others.

Biblical Examples

Psalms 117:2 (KJV)

2) For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.

Scripture(s) provided by: One God Network
Proverbs 19:22 (KJV)

22) The desire of a man is his kindness: and a poor man is better than a liar.

Scripture(s) provided by: One God Network
2 Corinthians 6:4-10 (KJV)

4) But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

5) In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

6) By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,

7) By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,

8) By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;

9) As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

10) As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Scripture(s) provided by: One God Network
Colossians 3:12-13 (KJV)

12) Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

13) Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

Scripture(s) provided by: One God Network
2 Peter 1:7 (KJV)

7) And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.

Scripture(s) provided by: One God Network

Discussion

Kindness is a simple yet powerful act that greatly impacts both the giver and the receiver. When we are kind, we not only brighten someone else's day but also experience a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Kindness means treating others with empathy and understanding, no matter who they are or what they've done. In the Bible, kindness is often portrayed as an essential characteristic of a godly person. It goes beyond being a simple action and becomes a way of life involving love, compassion, generosity, and forgiveness.

We are encouraged to follow God's example of kindness, as seen in Psalm 117:2. This passage emphasizes God's great merciful kindness toward us and reminds us to be kind to others, even when it isn't necessarily deserved.

In Proverbs 19:22, we are reminded that kindness should be our desire and priority. It also tells us that even a poor man who shows kindness is better than a liar, which shows that kindness comes from the heart and doesn't require material possessions or status.

In 2 Corinthians 6:4-10, we see how kindness is a characteristic of a true servant of God. It requires patience, love, and selflessness in the face of difficulties and trials. This kind of kindness is not shallow or surface level but goes deep into our character and actions.

Colossians 3:12-13 teaches us to put on kindness along with other godly characteristics such as humbleness and forgiveness. We are reminded to treat others with mercy and compassion, just as Christ has shown us.

In 2 Peter 1:7, we are called to have brotherly kindness towards one another, which emphasizes the importance of treating others like family, with love and compassion. When we have this kind of kindness towards others, it brings unity and harmony within our communities.

In today's fast-paced world, where it's easy to get caught up in our own lives and forget about the people around us, the importance of kindness is more relevant than ever. By making an effort to be kind to those we encounter, whether it's a stranger on the street or a loved one at home, we can create a ripple effect of positivity.

Summary

Kindness is an important quality emphasized in the Bible. It involves showing empathy, love, and understanding to others, mirroring God's benevolent nature. The scripture highlights the role of kindness as a key characteristic of a righteous person, exemplified through patience and compassion in challenging times. It is portrayed not just as an individual act but as an integral part of one's character, enriching relationships and fostering unity in communities. Being kind does not require wealth or status, as the heart's intention is what truly matters. Christians are encouraged to embody kindness, treating everyone with the affection and mercy that God shows us.