Live the Bible

Kindness is a trait true Christians ought to display.  Jesus Christ was a very compassionate person.  He showed compassion to a lot of people and had no problem healing the sick of their ailments.  We today may not necessarily be able to heal as Jesus healed, but we can make others comfortable and happy just by being kind to them.

The bible teaches that we must be kind to one another.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words and slander, as well as all types of malicious behaviour.  Instead be kind to each other, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”  Ephesians 4:31-32

Sadly today, compassion, mercy and kindness are hard to find in our world.  Very few people are truly merciful and kind.  As a matter of fact, the bible tells us that in the last days people will be unloving and selfish.

“…in the last days there will be very difficult times.  For people will love only themselves and their money.  They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful…They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control; they will be cruel and have no interest in what is good.”  2 Timothy 3:1-3

There are those who show kindness and are generous only because they expect something in return.  But a sincere person would do something nice for someone expecting nothing in return.  This is another teaching of the bible, that we should not go broadcasting our good deeds just to get praises or rewards.

“But when you give to someone, don’t tell your left hand what your right hand is doing.  Give your gift in secret, and your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you.”  Matthew 6:3-4

One important point to keep in mind is that we must not just be kind to our friends and family or to those who are deserving of it, but we must be kind to those who are not deserving of it as well.  Jesus Christ commanded us to love our enemies.  (Luke 6:31-35)

Our human nature makes it difficult for us to be kind to others, especially to ‘evil’ people.  But a true Christian must show his godly characteristics and the only way to do this is through the Holy Spirit. 

The fruit of the Holy Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.  (Galatians 5:22-23)

To obtain God’s Spirit is through repentance and baptism.  (Acts 2:38)

We must follow Jesus’ example and show kindness, compassion and mercy to others.  He showed them to everyone – the sick, poor, non-Jews, children and women.  Let us likewise do the same.