Are They Worthy Of Kindness?

Are They Worthy of Kindness?

Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17, NIV

“Don’t you worry that they’ll use your gift inappropriately?” an acquaintance innocently asked as I told her about the kind acts my family was doing. It’s a question I’ve heard more than once when sharing about ways we’ve given to meet the needs of others.

Being kind can, at times, appear to be weak or naive. Kindness is not often associated with power or strength. Yet the Bible is filled with reminders to care for the poor, for those without a voice, and for those who have needs, and that is what we remind ourselves of as we continue to plan acts of kindness.

My responsibility is to listen to what I believe God is asking me to do or give and to let him worry about how the other person manages the gift. Should we be responsible to research organizations or situations before we give? Absolutely. But it’s God’s responsibility to take my gift and use it in whatever way he deems fit.

If I’ve done my part with a pure heart, then I won’t be so worried about the worthiness of the person who receives the gift. This is the place where my faith steps in and believes that God will use whatever small thing I give or do for his glory. Because in all honesty, our kindness toward others is simply a response to God’s kindness toward us and his command that we do all things in Jesus’ name. Remembering that he is ultimately the reason I show kindness toward others removes my need to constantly know how the gift is being used.

The truth is, there may be times when others misuse or waste our gifts. It is in those moments that I remember the kindness and grace God extends to me each day. How often do I waste the gifts God so freely gives? I won’t let a few people’s negative actions deter me from extending kindness toward others and cultivating a heart of gratitude toward God.

—Kendra

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Is there someone in your life that you avoid showing kindness to—possibly because you disapprove of them? Go out of your way to show that person kindness.