One of the most overlooked virtues in our world today is the simple, Spirit taught gift of kindness. We celebrate strength, intelligence, success, toughness, and popularity—but rarely do we celebrate kindness. Kindness is not weakness; it is wisdom.
We push our children to excel, but we seldom teach them to be gentle, considerate, or gracious. And the absence of kindness shows up everywhere.
Consider the story of Joseph and his brothers. These brothers had done Joseph wrong—terribly wrong. Yet now, in a famine, they must return to Egypt and stand before the very man they betrayed. They don’t know it’s Joseph, but Joseph knows them.
Before they leave home, their elderly father Jacob (Israel) gives them significant instruction. He does not tell them to be clever, manipulative, or strong. He says, “Take the man a present—balm and honey, some spices and perfumes, some pistachios and almonds.” In other words: “Be kind.”
Jacob knew his sons—their tempers, their jealousy, their history of violence and rivalry. He knew they needed a different spirit. Kindness was the one thing they could offer when they had no power, no leverage, and no advantage. And the same is true for us.
Kindness can open doors that talent cannot. Kindness can soften hearts that arguments cannot. Kindness can heal wounds that the passage of time cannot. We feel better when we speak kindly rather than harshly. We rest better when we help rather than hurt. We grow spiritually when we choose grace over pride. Kindness reflects the heart of God.
As we walk through this day, be many things—wise, strong, diligent, courageous. But don’t forget to be kind.
(We invite your comments. Feel free to share this devotion with your friends and invite them to subscribe by forwarding their email address to the Pastor at: fredjeffsmith@gmail.com)
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