Embracing Kindness: Reflecting God's Character in Our Lives
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, church family. Today, we delve into the fruit of the Spirit, focusing on kindness, an increasingly rare commodity in our society. We began by reflecting on the story of Horatio Spafford and his hymn, "It Is Well with My Soul," which was birthed out of immense personal suffering. This serves as a reminder that even in our struggles, we can find ways to express kindness and grace.
We explored Galatians 5:22-23 and Mark 10:13-16, where Jesus' interaction with children exemplifies divine kindness. Despite societal norms that marginalized children, Jesus welcomed them, showing that kindness is not just an action but a reflection of God's character. This kindness is something we are called to emulate in our lives.
We discussed the rising incivility in our society and how kindness can be a countercultural act. Kindness is not just about grand gestures but also small, everyday actions that reflect God's grace. We looked at various examples, including the modern phenomenon of "Jeep ducking," where small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity.
We also examined how kindness should be evident in our words and actions. Jesus' kindness was not just in His deeds but also in His words. He spoke blessings over the children, showing that our words have the power to uplift and encourage. We are reminded that kindness costs but cannot be bought, as illustrated by the story of Mother Teresa and her selfless acts of service.
Finally, we touched on the importance of kindness in leadership and everyday interactions. Ronald Reagan's story of meeting blind children without seeking publicity exemplifies true kindness. We are encouraged to be kind not just to those who benefit us but also to those who may never repay us. This reflects the unconditional kindness of God, who is kind to both the grateful and the ungrateful.
### Key Takeaways
1. Kindness Reflects God's Character: Kindness is a fundamental aspect of God's nature. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this divine kindness in our interactions with others. Jesus' welcoming of children, despite societal norms, shows that kindness transcends social boundaries and expectations. [41:39]
2. Kindness in a World of Incivility: In a society where incivility is on the rise, kindness becomes a revolutionary act. Small acts of kindness, like the "Jeep ducking" phenomenon, can create a ripple effect, spreading positivity and grace in a world that desperately needs it. [38:45]
3. The Power of Kind Words: Our words have immense power to uplift and encourage. Jesus' blessings over the children in Mark 10 demonstrate that kindness is not just about actions but also about the words we speak. A kind word can warm even the coldest of hearts. [58:46]
4. Kindness Costs but Cannot Be Bought: True kindness often comes at a cost but cannot be bought. Mother Teresa's selfless acts of service illustrate that kindness is about giving without expecting anything in return. This reflects the unconditional love and grace of God. [50:47]
5. Kindness in Leadership: Effective leadership is marked by kindness. Ronald Reagan's interaction with blind children, done without seeking publicity, exemplifies how true leaders prioritize kindness over recognition. This teaches us that it's more important to be kind than to be important. [55:34]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[35:32] - Personal Story: Financial Struggles
[36:22] - The Jeep Story: Finding Joy in Small Things
[36:59] - The Origin of Jeep Ducking
[38:17] - Introduction to Kindness
[38:45] - The Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness
[39:21] - Rising Incivility in Society
[40:09] - Definition of Kindness
[40:56] - Ephesians 4:32: Be Kind to One Another
[41:39] - Jesus and the Children: Mark 10
[44:05] - The Importance of Patience and Kindness
[46:06] - Jesus' Indignation: Let the Children Come
[47:06] - Jesus' Kindness in an Unkind World
[50:47] - Mother Teresa: Kindness Costs but Cannot Be Bought
[55:34] - Ronald Reagan: Kindness in Leadership
[58:46] - The Power of Kind Words
[01:02:00] - Kindness is Not Softness
[01:05:16] - Love in Action: Jesus' Touch of Kindness
[01:09:06] - Invitation to Receive Jesus' Kindness
[01:12:06] - Closing Prayer and Invitation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."
2. Mark 10:13-16: "And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, 'Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.' And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the nine attributes listed as the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23?
2. How did Jesus react when the disciples rebuked those bringing children to Him in Mark 10:13-16? [41:39]
3. According to the sermon, what modern phenomenon was used as an example of small acts of kindness? [36:59]
4. What was the significance of Ronald Reagan's interaction with the blind children, as mentioned in the sermon? [55:34]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the sermon suggest that kindness is a reflection of God's character? How does Jesus' interaction with children in Mark 10:13-16 illustrate this? [41:39]
2. In what ways does the sermon argue that kindness can be a countercultural act in today's society? [39:21]
3. How does the story of Mother Teresa in the sermon illustrate the idea that "kindness costs but cannot be bought"? [50:47]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the power of kind words, and how does this relate to Jesus blessing the children in Mark 10:16? [58:46]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you had the opportunity to show kindness but chose not to. What held you back, and how can you respond differently next time? [39:21]
2. Think of a person in your life who often tests your patience. What specific action can you take this week to show them kindness, even if it costs you something? [50:47]
3. How can you incorporate small acts of kindness, like the "Jeep ducking" phenomenon, into your daily routine? What are some simple ways you can spread positivity in your community? [36:59]
4. Consider the power of your words. Can you recall a time when a kind word from someone made a significant impact on you? How can you be intentional about using your words to uplift others this week? [58:46]
5. Reflect on the story of Ronald Reagan and the blind children. How can you practice kindness in your leadership roles, whether at work, home, or church, without seeking recognition? [55:34]
6. Jesus showed kindness to those who were marginalized and ignored by society. Identify a group or individual in your community who might feel marginalized. What steps can you take to show them kindness and inclusion? [58:13]
7. The sermon mentioned that kindness should be evident in both our actions and words. What is one specific way you can ensure your words align with your actions in demonstrating kindness this week? [58:46]
Devotional
Day 1: Kindness Reflects God's Character
Kindness is a fundamental aspect of God's nature, and as followers of Christ, we are called to reflect this divine kindness in our interactions with others. Jesus' welcoming of children, despite societal norms that marginalized them, shows that kindness transcends social boundaries and expectations. This act of kindness is not just about doing good deeds but is a reflection of God's character. When we show kindness, we are embodying the love and grace that God has shown us.
In Mark 10:13-16, Jesus' interaction with children exemplifies divine kindness. Despite societal norms that marginalized children, Jesus welcomed them, showing that kindness is not just an action but a reflection of God's character. This kindness is something we are called to emulate in our lives. By doing so, we become living testimonies of God's love and grace in a world that desperately needs it. [41:39]
Ephesians 4:32 (ESV): "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
Reflection: Think of a person in your life who is often overlooked or marginalized. How can you show them God's kindness today in a way that reflects His character?
Day 2: Kindness in a World of Incivility
In a society where incivility is on the rise, kindness becomes a revolutionary act. Small acts of kindness, like the "Jeep ducking" phenomenon, can create a ripple effect, spreading positivity and grace in a world that desperately needs it. These small gestures may seem insignificant, but they have the power to transform the atmosphere around us and bring a sense of community and connection.
Kindness is not just about grand gestures but also small, everyday actions that reflect God's grace. The modern phenomenon of "Jeep ducking," where small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity, serves as a powerful example. In a world filled with negativity and incivility, these small acts can make a significant difference. They remind us that we have the power to change the world around us through simple, kind actions. [38:45]
Proverbs 15:1 (ESV): "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
Reflection: What is one small act of kindness you can perform today to counteract the negativity you encounter in your daily life?
Day 3: The Power of Kind Words
Our words have immense power to uplift and encourage. Jesus' blessings over the children in Mark 10 demonstrate that kindness is not just about actions but also about the words we speak. A kind word can warm even the coldest of hearts and has the potential to change someone's day or even their life.
Jesus' kindness was not just in His deeds but also in His words. He spoke blessings over the children, showing that our words have the power to uplift and encourage. In a world where words are often used to hurt and tear down, speaking kind words can be a powerful act of love and grace. It reminds us that kindness is not just about what we do but also about what we say. [58:46]
Proverbs 16:24 (ESV): "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body."
Reflection: Think of someone who might need encouragement today. What kind words can you speak to them to uplift their spirit?
Day 4: Kindness Costs but Cannot Be Bought
True kindness often comes at a cost but cannot be bought. Mother Teresa's selfless acts of service illustrate that kindness is about giving without expecting anything in return. This reflects the unconditional love and grace of God, who is kind to both the grateful and the ungrateful.
Mother Teresa's life is a powerful example of this truth. Her selfless acts of service were not motivated by a desire for recognition or reward but by a genuine love for others. This kind of kindness is rare but incredibly powerful. It reminds us that true kindness is about giving of ourselves, even when it costs us something. It is a reflection of God's unconditional love and grace. [50:47]
Luke 6:35 (ESV): "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you showed kindness without expecting anything in return. How did it make you feel, and how can you continue to practice this kind of selfless kindness?
Day 5: Kindness in Leadership
Effective leadership is marked by kindness. Ronald Reagan's interaction with blind children, done without seeking publicity, exemplifies how true leaders prioritize kindness over recognition. This teaches us that it's more important to be kind than to be important.
True leadership is not about seeking recognition or accolades but about serving others with kindness and humility. Ronald Reagan's story of meeting blind children without seeking publicity exemplifies this principle. It reminds us that the most effective leaders are those who lead with kindness and compassion. This kind of leadership reflects the heart of God, who leads us with love and grace. [55:34]
1 Peter 5:2-3 (ESV): "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock."
Reflection: Think about your role as a leader, whether at work, home, or in your community. How can you lead with kindness and humility today?
Quotes
1. "We have become a society where the milk of human kindness is souring. Incivility is rising, particularly in our country, particularly in an election year. Imagine that. And an alarming amount of American citizens, believe that incivility is a serious problem. Now, in December of 2016 poll, 75% of people said that incivility has risen to crisis levels in our country. And 73% of those people said the United States is losing its stature as a civil nation." [39:21] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Mark Twain once said kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can read. Now, if we want to look at the definition of kindness, it literally means that which is good, helpful, and suitable. Literally being gracious to one another. In other words, responding with the same grace that God has responded to you with. See, kindness really is treating other people the way God has treated you." [40:09] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So in this interaction with Jesus and these children, we see four things that we should focus on if we want to cultivate the fruit of the spirit of kindness in our lives. First, we see how kindness is seen in the Lord. Now, all through the Scriptures, we see the kindness of God. God is kind. And if we know God, if we belong to God, we, in turn, will be kind as well. Thank you. That was one of those amen moments. Amen. We will be kind." [44:05] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "One of the worst things that we can think or do is look at somebody and say, you know what? That person's so rotten, there's no way they would ever come to Christ. You are hindering them from coming to Christ. We should share Jesus with everybody. Because that's what Christ did. He had time for everyone. And you see, the disciples are telling these people, bringing their children to Jesus, Jesus don't have time to waste. Jesus has got all the time in the world. Jesus created time. Time to Jesus is linear, because he sees the end from the beginning. And he has time for everyone." [46:06] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice. And I want to encourage every one of you to take every opportunity you can to be kind to people because you reflect positively upon your Savior, Jesus Christ, when you do that. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, you cannot do a kindness too soon for you never know how soon it will be too late." [57:40] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Kindness is not only the way that we are supposed to act, it's also the kind of way that we're supposed to react. The way that we're supposed to react. Because we can set ourselves up to act a certain way. But when something happens, our quick reaction to it, that's got to come out of who your character is. How you respond to negative comments. How you respond to someone being rude to you. That shows a lot about your character. Because a dead fish floats downstream. When you have the cultivation of the fruit of the spirit of kindness in your heart, you respond kindly." [59:28] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "So let's be like Jesus. Let's be kind. Not only with the deeds that we do, but with the words that we say. And I think we need to remember one thing. This is not just pie in the sky. Kindness is not softness. It's not a sentimental indulgence that tolerates wrong and evil in other people. If I went to the doctor and the doctor discovers that I had a tumor and he says, you know, I don't want to cause this man any emotional pain. I don't want to upset him in any way. I don't want him to leave here discouraged or upset. And he comes back into the office and says, listen, everything looks great. Don't worry. Be happy. Go on home. Is he being kind to me? No, he's being just the opposite. He's being unkind." [01:02:00] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "Friends, sin is killing all of us. That is the worst contagion in the universe, is sin. And we should be confronting the sin of others and condemning the sin in others. But when we do that, we must do it in kindness. Galatians 6.1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness keep watch on yourself lest too you be tempted. So there is a way to point out others' faults without being harsh and mean. You can make a critical point with a kind comment. A calm demeanor goes a lot farther than a harsh comment and an ugly tone of voice." [01:03:19] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "In kindness, God reached out and touched me as a 13-year-old boy when I was covered with the leprosy of sin. Jesus swept me up in his arms. He laid his hands on me. He blessed me with forgiveness and salvation. And listen, if he hasn't already done that in your life, he wants to. He bids you to come to him that he may lay his loving, kind hands upon you and bless you and change your life forever. Jesus stands at the door of your heart and he knocks. In kindness, Jesus came. In kindness, Jesus lived. In kindness, Jesus loved. In kindness, Jesus died. And in kindness, God raised him from the dead." [01:08:32] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "We can only do this because of the kindness and grace of Jesus Christ. It's in that Spirit and in that name. When we meet fellow saints and fallen sinners on the highway of life, he gives us the power. He gives us the power to always be kind." [01:09:43] (12 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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