Purposeful Kindness!

Today there is encouragement to practice “random acts” of kindness. Being kind to others as the opportunities arise here and there while moving through each day can greatly impact the lives of others. Such acts have the potential for making a huge difference through ALTERING THE DIRECTION of another’s life because of the power to impact their disposition and outlook. In fact this is not the random, but rather the DIVINE PURPOSE of the kindness of God!

In Paul’s letter to the church at Rome we read. . .
“(1) Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. (2) We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things. (3) Do you suppose, O man -- you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself -- that you will escape the judgment of God? (4) Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that GOD’S KINDNESS IS MEANT TO LEAD YOU TO REPENTANCE?” ( Romans 2:1-4 ESV)

First of all, Paul implied the need for putting into practice what we preach. Being hypercritical of others while making no effort to make needed changes in our own life would mean we are hypocritical as well. We are to ultimately live mindful of our accountability before God. Maintaining that awareness should compel our actions in a proper direction.

Paul went on to caution against taking the kindness, forbearance, and patience of God for granted. Such would be an act of presumption in thinking He will continue to lavish these upon us even when no effort is being made to follow His Will. (note also Romans 6:1-2) God’s kindness has a DIVINE PURPOSE and that purpose is to LEAD TO REPENTANCE.

The Greek word translated “kindness” here in the English Standard Version is “chrestos”, which primarily signifies being fit for use or able to be used. With regard to the character of God (as in the text here) it is indicative of his kindness or graciousness. [source: “Vine’s Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words] God’s kindness is fit for ALTERING THE DIRECTION of our life when that kindness is acknowledged in an appreciative manner. May we allow His kindness to fulfill that wonderful work in our lives as we direct the attention of others to it as well. Herein lies the finding of the greatest impact on our disposition and outlook on life!

Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE LIFE CHANGING USEFULNESS OF GOD’S KINDNESS!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Kindness