Be Kind

Ephesians 4 New International Version (NIV)

³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. ³² Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 5 New International Version (NIV)

¹ Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children ² and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

"Be kind to one another."  Those are wonderful words.  You and I would like it if we were always treated with kindness.  The same is true of the other person.

When we meet another person, we do not know what they have just been through, whether they are smiling or they are downcast.  They may have just come from a very unsettling experience or having heard distressing news.  They may be nearly oblivious to you, or they may be putting on a front.  Whatever, give them the benefit of the doubt, and be kind.

Before jumping to conclusions, find out where they are.  Are they carrying a burden?  Have they lost a job? Did they get bad news at the doctor's office? Is their child in trouble in school? When you are overburdened with responsibilities, it may be hard to walk in the other person's moccasins; yet that is so much better than trampling on their feelings.

Life gives us many situations to deal with, but even when we don't know what to do, be kind.  The world has a much higher preference for sugar than vinegar. 

Dear God, help me to be an instrument of showing your love and kindness wherever I may be, as long as you permit me to be.  Amen.

Reprinted with permission from St. Mark Presbyterian's 2002 Lenten Devotional