What Does the Bible Say About Kindness?
One of the core principles in Christianity is kindness. The Bible offers many words of wisdom on the subject, but one of the most famous Bible verses about kindness doesn't even mention the word. Christians know it as the golden rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." The Bible has a lot to say about kindness which applies to people everywhere, not just Christians.
Significance
Luke 6:35 from the New International Version Bible says, "But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." The significance of this verse refers to the principle of the golden rule, but further instructs us to love our enemies. This concept would definitely make a difference in the wars waging in our world today.
Effects
The following verse from Ephesians 4:32 in the New Living Translation Bible explains how we are to love our enemies through forgiveness: "Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." Forgiveness is a kindness we do for ourselves as well as others.
Prevention/Solution
"A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." Proverbs 15:1 in the New Living Translation Bible offers us a solution for putting kindness into daily practice. Before you respond angrily to someone, take a breath and change the situation with a softer word.
Considerations
"Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other." Romans 12:9-10, New Living Translation Bible instructs us to hate the wrong, not the person who wronged us. Considering the difference between what a person does and who the person is will make it easier to forgive. We all make mistakes, but we can learn from them if given the opportunity.
Benefits
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 from the New International Version Bible reminds us that one of the benefits of kindness is love. More than just words from a marriage ceremony, this verse describes love as it relates to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation.
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