The Fruit Of The Spirit Is....Kindness

Greek word 'Chrestotes' which is translated as gentleness in the AV. Denotes goodness of heart, kindness, graciousness, gentleness.
Romans 11:22. Chrestotes is love in action.

The world does not understand the Biblical concept of kindness
People can do kind things, say kind things, even have kind faces. But that's often surface only, Biblical kindness runs deeper.
True kindness is a gift from God, produced by the Holy Spirit.

Examples of kindness in the NT

a) The parable of the good Samaritan. Luke 10: 25-37
b) The healing of the leper. Matthew 8: 1-3
c) Zacchaeus the tax collector. Luke 19: 1-10

They are all examples of love in action.
Eph 4: 32. 'Be kind to one another'. It doesn't say 'try to be kind' or 'do your best to be kind'

Practical points regarding kindness

a) The more you give it away, the more you get back. Acts of kindness produce generosity in others.
b) Kindness is a tremendous witness. Many people came to know Christ through the kindness of Christians.
c) We need to practice kindness. You can't go to school to learn it. There are no qualifications attached to it.
d) Practised kindness releases blessings. Ebenezer Scrooge lived a miserable life until he realised life is nothing until based on kindness.
e) Kindness makes life a lot less stressful. Stop holding grudges and devising plans of revenge and your mind will be more relaxed.
f) It's the fruit of the Holy Spirit. It can't be found in a psychiatrist's chair.

Action plan

Start making plans to go out and commit acts of random kindness.
But a word of warning: Regular practice of such kindness can be contagious, habit forming, good for your self-esteem and extremely enjoyable. Use it with reckless abandon!

Stewart Bloor

www.sicm.org