Fruits of the Spirit – Kindness

After battling a fire near San Bernardino, California this summer, a team of hungry firefighters descended upon Denny’s. The fire chief went to pay for more than 25 meals, but was told a woman had anonymously covered the bill. What a huge act of kindness!

Kindness is contagious. I know people who exude kindness in the way they talk and in how they treat others. They naturally bless others by their very presence – and inspire me to live likewise!

Kindness, an attribute of God, is a fruit of the spirit. It looks to the needs of others and is generous in word and deed.

The prophet Micah said, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

Just how do we love and live out kindness? First, by abiding in Christ. We live with margin so we can freely give when needs arise. As the hands and feet of Christ, we obediently love our neighbor as ourselves when we open the door for kindness to flow. We lovingly give of our time, talents, and money.

Studies have shown that people are happier when giving time or money to help others. We must be discerning, of course. But, the Lord wants us to extend kindness without expecting anything in return. When we make others happy, research reveals that we’ll experience joy in return.

So, if you have some extra time and money this year, use them as an opportunity to love your neighbor as yourself. Allow the kindness of God to flow through you and you will be blessed! As Solomon, said, “Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.”

Planning your finances gives you the freedom to use your money with kindness. And that includes planning for retirement!. My new CD  includes interviews with two leading experts on retirement planning.  Get your copy by making a generous donation of any amount! Just visit crown.org/retirement.