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Keys to Kindness
It was the summer of eighth grade when some girls were determined to ruin my day. I was the new girl in town and not at all welcome. I didn’t do anything against them, but they were determined to show me that I was moving in on their territory. One would think that that kind of predator instinct was only present in the animal kingdom, but it was certainly in action among those adolescent girls who lined up to attack. They were rude and divisive and unkind. They called me names and hurled humiliating insults at me in front of others. They even rifled through my personal belongings.
In my young mind, I couldn’t understand why people would want to be so unkind to another. I realized later that their jealousy and envy of my father’s leadership position made me the target of their bullseye.
Ever since that time, I determined I would always do everyone good and show kindness in every possible way, not only to those I knew, but to all those who found themselves to be the new person in town.
Kindness is listed as just one attribute of the fruit of the Spirit, and according to the Strong’s concordance, which references the original language, it involves “goodness in action, sweetness of disposition, gentleness in dealing with others, benevolence, and affability.” The word describes the “ability to act for the welfare of those taxing your patience.” The Holy Spirit enables maturity and development and removes abrasive qualities from the character of one under His control.
Here are some Keys to Kindness to consider:
- Think of others first before you think of yourself.
- Consider their position, needs and feelings.
- Don’t allow yourself to think “Why do they have that and not me?”
- Resist feelings of jealousy or envy.
- Refuse to be intimidated, but be willing to learn.
- Remain genuinely interested in the lives and stories of others.
- Submit to the Holy Spirit your own will and be willing to be led by Him.
Galatians 5 lists the Fruit of the Spirit and includes kindness in the description of an individual who is led by the Spirit and not the works of the flesh. It is important to allow God to develop a kind heart within us and to teach our children how to be kind to others, as well. Hopefully, fewer young girls will have to experience what I did at the hand of those who choose to be unkind.
Copyright © 2008-2015 Debbie Reynolds Harper
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