The Power Of God’s Kindness
When we think about the power of God, it might be easy to focus on His mighty judgement. But could it be possible that God’s grandest power is instead found in His kindness?
Kindness is love in action. The Bible is overflowing with scripture revealing the kindness of God. And, truly, the God’s kindness is perfectly captured in the words and actions of Messiah Jesus (Matthew 22:37–39).
It’s recorded in the gospels that Jesus performed 22 healings. And just how many of Jesus’ words and teachings centered around love and kindness?
It’s clear that in our efforts to become more Christlike, becoming more joyfully kind should be a priority.
Proverbs 19:22
That which makes a man to be desired is his kindness. A poor man is better than a liar.
That which makes a man to be desired is his kindness. A poor man is better than a liar.
Is There A Purpose To God’s Kindness … And To Ours?
God in His perfection has a purpose and, of course, ALWAYS achieves His purpose (Psalm 138:8).
Romans 2:4
Or do you despise the riches of his goodness (kindness), forbearance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness (kindness) of God leads you to repentance?
God created us to be close with Him. As Romans 2:4 illustrates, the purpose of His kindness is to bring us to repentance. What is repentance? It’s simply a return to God.
See what King David had to say about God’s kindness …
Psalm 31:21
Praise be to Yahweh,
for he has shown me his marvelous loving kindness in a strong city.
Paul The Apostle tells the Christians in Corinth that EVERYTHING that they do should be done in love (Corinthians 16:14).
If Jesus instructed us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39), that means that our actions toward our neighbors should be filled with kindness.
What Is The Result Of Our Actions Being Done In Love?
If God’s kindness is meant to bring us to repentance, don’t you think there’s a chance that our kindness could help bring people to Christ? Don’t be surprised when people approach you and ask, “Why are you always so nice?” When you answer that you’re a Christian and that Jesus teaches that we should love our neighbor and that kindness is simply love in action … you can be sure that will help bring more people to Christ.
Even God’s Judgment Can Be An Expression Of Kindness!
Even the process of God disciplining us is kindness.
Hebrews 12:11
All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
So, drawing closer to God and becoming more Christlike is simple. Not easy, but simple. Be grateful for God’s kindness and allow yourself to be Christlike by always treating others – your neighbors – with kindness.
