KINDNESS

And since it is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s grace would not be what it really is—free and undeserved. —Romans 11:6

Kind people make such a better day, a better world. I recently heard about people here in our little town, a two country store (one with gas pumps) town, they paid for meals for soldiers eating the only diner and buying food at the other store for soldiers as well. Kindness to others brings joy to them and also encourages others who hear about it.

Kindness… when we get somewhat of a grasp on God’s kindness it is overwhelming. Many want to focus on the evil in the world or the bad things that happen. It is sensationalized and reported much more than the kind acts that occur a whole lot more that we will ever know… especially through media. They just don’t report on much good that is happening in the world— and of course there is.

Have you stood on a mountain lately and stood in awe of His mighty creative work? Or have you recently gazed out over the ocean from the beach and considered the greatness of God? When was the last time you considered the uniqueness of each person you meet? When did you last look at flowers— I mean really stop and look at them? The night stars reveal His mighty power!

When storms of various sorts devastate towns, have you heard about the Christian response? Did you hear about those Christian brothers putting a new roof on a home at no charge to the home owner and they did it because they love Jesus and love people? Did you hear about those serving among the sick and dying? Did you hear about the severely burned man put into an induced coma for months but is now living a normal life? Did you hear how Christians are helping others start micro business? Do you remember who causes the sun to shine day after day or the One who makes it rain so things grow? Have you considered lately who holds this all together?

Or have you thought about the great kindness God has shown toward those who have called on the Name of His Son, the Lord Jesus? Jesus took the punishment “for our sin and the sins of the whole world” (I John 2:2). He satisfied the wrath of God toward those who have trusted His finished work at the cross. Jesus also experienced all the grief and sorrows of this world at the cross (Isaiah 53:4-5). He is right now preparing a place for all those who love Him and will receive them to Himself at death or when He comes back (John 14:1-3). We who know Him will be with Him forever in that perfect place— a place, heaven, where there will be no more suffering, no more pain, no more tears, no more death… no more of anything bad, sad, but all will be glad (Revelation 21:4-5).

God offers all of this “free and underserved.” This life in Jesus cannot be earned, God gives it freely to “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord” (Romans 10:13). You and I who have trusted Jesus are swimming in an eternal ocean of grace because of God’s kindness. Now let us be those people that He desires us to be to honor Him. May it be so.

Dear Father, thank You for all the kindnesses You extend to me every day. May I ponder these with a grateful heart and extend kindness to others today. Yes, may this be the case in the Name of Jesus my Lord.

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