Kindness – Part III

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” – Ephesians 4:32

The most important reason to be kind to others is to follow the commandments of Christ. We know that everything God tells us to do is for our own benefit. Following God’s way will bring us success and joy in the long run.

What are some reasons we may not be kind?

Part I discussed that ego can cause us to not be kind. Part II discussed that self-righteousnes can cause us to not be kind. This Part III will talk about other human limits which may cause us to be unkind.

III. Other human limits

It’s so easy to not be kind!

We are in a physical body, which at times gets tired, hungry, stressed, in pain, pushed to our limits. These can cause us to be harsh to others as we deal with our own issues. In these times, pause, remember you belong to God, He is in control.

Sometimes we may be careless. We may forget how our words or actions impact someone else.

Sometimes we may be in a hurry. We focus on tasks and forget the needs of others.

When others are not kind to us, our human nature is to respond by being unkind to that person.

Being unkind can often take place quickly. A harsh comment, an angry countenance. Being unkind can occur when we don’t intend to be unkind. People tend to be more unkind when they are stressed, tired, frustrated, or disappointed.

Many times we realize after the fact that we have not been kind. It may be that we don’t even realize that we are becoming unkind until after the fact.

Sometimes we don’t even realize we are being unkind

Sometimes we are much more unkind than we intend. We are harsh, then we justify it, or try to disguise it. Don’t do that. Acknowledge it, and then turn from it.

Kindness does not always come easy. We may be tired, maybe a lot of irritating things have happened to us, maybe some disappointments. The first chance we get, we might lash out at someone.

Honor Him by seeking to be kind, even in your discomfort.

Consider:
Being unkind can do great damage. To you. To your family. To your friends. To co-workers. To others around you.

Practicing kindness is a discipline we can all exercise. The more you practice something, the better you get at it. You will be greatly rewarded.

God has been kind to you. You can show your love to God by being kind to others.