Kindness is one of those gifts that never goes out of style. It doesn’t require wealth, special talents, or perfect circumstances. Anyone can offer kindness. A smile, a word of encouragement, a note of appreciation, a helping hand, or simply taking the time to listen can make a tremendous difference in someone’s life.

As Christians, kindness is not simply a suggestion—it is part of who we are called to be. Galatians 5:22-23 lists kindness as one of the fruits of the Spirit. In other words, as we grow closer to Christ, kindness should become more evident in our lives. The world can be quick to judge, criticize, and divide. The church should be a place where people encounter grace, compassion, and genuine care.

I will NEVER forget how welcomed I felt when I came to Spring Creek.  The reason I decided to visit was because of Jack Coleman, who at the time was 12ish.  He was Logan’s best friend and I was so impressed by his testimony.  Once I visited, I remember everyone welcoming me and just being so kind.  Once I found my seat in a pew (which I am sure I took someone’s unofficial assigned seat…if you know you know), Hannah and Ben Locks came right over and just started talking to me!  Listen, impressed is not the word.  ALL of these kids were so kind and treated me like one of the crowd.  I knew instantly I loved this place.  To this day, I have never forgotten how I felt and that says something.

One of the reasons I was inspired to write this was a conversation I had a couple of weeks ago.  I was getting a christian tattoo by a christian tattoo artist.  In fact, I drove a couple hours to get tattooed by him.  While he tattoos you, he asks A LOT of thought provoking questions about your relationship with the Lord.  We got into a deep discussion about christians being unkind.  Sure, this was a blanket statement and of course, not everyone is unkind.  But for a religion that preaches to not judge but to hold people accountable; love unconditionally; stay humble; and, to be kind we, collectively, struggle with that.  And when I say we, I am NOT excluding me!  Nonchristians look at our behavior and decide if this is what they want to be associated with.  Which is why in these motivations, I try to drive home that the church is made up of imperfect people.  

One of the reasons kindness is so important is because we rarely know the battles others are facing. The person greeting you on Sunday morning may be carrying a burden you cannot see. The friend who always seems cheerful may be struggling privately. The visitor walking through the church doors may be nervous, lonely, or searching for hope (like me!). A simple act of kindness may not solve their problems, but it can remind them that they are seen, valued, and loved.

Proverbs 16:24 tells us, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” What a beautiful reminder that our words have power. We can use them to build up or tear down, to encourage or discourage. Every conversation is an opportunity to reflect the love of Christ.

Kindness is especially important within the church family. We are a group of imperfect people serving a perfect Savior. We won’t always agree on every decision, preference, or opinion. There will be times when misunderstandings happen. Yet Scripture calls us to treat one another with patience, compassion, and grace. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Imagine how much stronger our churches would be if we approached every interaction with that verse in mind.

Jesus Himself modeled kindness throughout His ministry. He welcomed those whom others overlooked. He spent time with people society rejected. He showed compassion to the sick, the hurting, and the brokenhearted. Everywhere He went, people experienced not only His power but also His love. As followers of Christ, we are called to do the same. We may not perform miracles, but we can certainly offer kindness.

Kindness is often found in the small things. It may be checking on a neighbor, sitting with someone who is alone, writing a card, offering a prayer, or simply choosing patience when frustration would be easier. These moments may seem insignificant, but God has a way of using small acts to accomplish great things.

This week, look for opportunities to be intentionally kind. Not because someone has earned it. Not because it is convenient. Simply because Christ has been kind to us. Let us be known not only for what we believe, but for how we treat people.

You never know how far a kind word, a compassionate heart, or a simple act of grace may travel. You may be the answer to someone’s prayer simply by choosing kindness.

I love you all and I hope you have a blessed week!

Jennifer