Have you ever been around someone who wants to keep you guessing? Gives the impression that they know something, you don’t know? Smiling lips with total disdain in their eyes? Prone to treat people as though they just don’t quite measure up? A person who is labeled, “a thorn” in your day?
I have. I am confident that most if not all of us have met this personality.
When we think about them, kindness is not a word that jumps out. I was searching synonyms and antonyms for this word kindness. Merriam-Webster has a class called “near” antonym. Impediment is the near antonym to kindness.
When we treat people coldly, smirking our way through the day, looking for faults in others, sadly, we have become an impediment to progress. Not only have we impeded the progress of the target but also for those who uncomfortably watch from afar. Surely, not a witness Jesus is pleased with
The world scoffs at believers. We know what the world calls us but what does a relationship with God give us?
We have forgiveness of sins. We have salvation. We are assured of eternal life. We have regiments of angels at our side on the whispered command of the God of the universe. We have access to the ear that hears and understands. On those days when you have become a target of those who bully their way through the day, you have assurance that someone mightier than you is paying attention to the grace with which you respond and takes note of the one choosing a different path.
Be of good cheer. Exercise kindness with everyone. Do not let your legacy become one of controversy, turmoil and strife. Let kindness, and grace under fire be the first thought that comes to mind when they define who you are. The term has been over used, but what would Jesus do, is a good measure of proper behavior. When confronted with inappropriate behavior, how would Jesus handle the situation. Amazing results guaranteed, every single time.
Scriptures For Today:
Proverbs 3:3-4
3 Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. 4 Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.(NLT)
2 Timothy 2:24
24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. (NLT)
Proverbs 16:30
30 With narrowed eyes, people plot evil; with a smirk, they plan their mischief. (NLT)
Prayer For Today:
Hello Father! We pray for a kind spirit. Not just any kind, but the kind spirit of our Savior Jesus. We pray that we leave joy, love and kindness behind us as we pass through our lives. Forgive us for those times we did not treat others the way that brings You honor. Forgive us of our sins. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
©2015 Kathy Ledbetter. All Rights Reserved.