Love is Kind

Paul devotes many words to the subject of love because he wants to show the
Corinthians “a more excellent way.” He describes how love behaves or acts in 1
Cor.13:4–8.

Among love’s many fruits is the sweet balm of kindness. “Love is kind,” says Paul.
Kindness is defined by Merriam–Webster’s Dictionary as “of a sympathetic or helpful
nature.” Kindness is easily recognized and speedily praised by all, for it’s a quality that
people intuitively understand because it projects the love and compassion we feel
toward ourselves.

Jesus expressed it this way, “In everything do to others as you would have them do to
you; for this is the law and the prophets” (Matt.7:12 NRSV). In other words, treat
people the way you want to be treated.

It’s not healthy or wise to spend too much time thinking about yourself, but in the
interest of perfecting kindness, some self–examination is in order. Ask yourself, “How
do I like to be treated by other people?” How would you want to be treated in these
situations?

When having a bible discussion with other Christians? When on vacation, visiting a
congregation where you don’t know anybody? When circumstances in your personal
life aren’t good and you’re having a tough time just trying to smile? When you’re sick
and can’t make services and you feel so isolated at home?

Now that you can answer those questions for yourself, flip it around and consider them
from the other person’s perspective. How should you treat someone in these
situations? That’s kindness – treating others the way you want to be treated.
Some more thoughts on kindness:

Kindness is sympathetic. A kind person seeks to help people who are in distress,
struggling, or need assistance. It can be a simple act like holding the door for an
elderly lady or lending a few dollars to a friend in a pinch. To be kind sometimes
requires that a person be more involved or devote more time to a person’s situation.
Kindness is impartial. It does not play favorites, nor does it respect people according
to worldly standards. It is not prejudiced but seeks the welfare of everyone.
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are
of the household of faith,” (Gal.6:10 NKJV). Part of being kind is relating to people
different from you; putting yourself in that person’s shoes, trying to imagine what
they’re feeling, and extending comfort and support.

Kindness is merciful. One of the greatest acts of kindness is to forgive someone for
some offense or transgression. The Hebrew word hesed (mercy) is translated as
lovingkindness by the NKJV; lovingkindness is what mercy is all about. David says the
man whose sins are covered is blessed (Psalm 32:1). We should not feel put upon to
forgive someone who sinned against us, but rather rejoice that we can bless some
penitent soul, forgiving them as God has forgiven us! What greater kindness is there?

Kurt Paquette