“Worthy” Of Kindness

“Worthy” of Kindness

The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.

Psalm 24:1, NIV

My husband works in the financial services industry. Throughout the years, he’s heard stories about clients who reveal the best and worst parts of human nature. Siblings who fight over their inheritance following the death of their parents, leading to disputes that dissolve the family. A wealthy couple who have made millions, yet wonder if their $1,000 donation to charity the previous year was “too much.”

In my opinion, possessiveness can only lead to unhappiness. When I start thinking about things as mine—my money, my resources, my time, my talents—that inward focus can lead to dissatisfaction in giving.

Have you ever heard of someone who was in need and immediately you wanted to judge whether or not the person was truly “worthy” of the gift? I’m sad to admit that I’ve done this too. I don’t want to give something that’s mine to someone who might waste it or use it foolishly.

I’m not advocating being a poor steward of your resources, but we should remember that we have been given all things from the Lord—all our resources, all the possessions we cling to so tightly. We were born in this era, in this country, with all the advantages and opportunities that engenders, by God’s design.

What if, instead, God gave us resources based on our gratitude, humility, or frugality? Many of us might be poorer, both in spirit and in resources, if that were the case! Rather than possessively holding on to what we’ve deemed ours, miserly giving it only to those who seem worthy, perhaps we should consider all we have to be an outpouring of God’s blessings. In a way, we’re simply giving back to him—so a standard of “worthiness” really isn’t for us to decide.

What’s more important than the recipient being worthy of kindness is my heart’s motivation behind the action: Is it for my glory or for God’s? When we act out of a desire to honor God, we will find deeper satisfaction in our giving.

—Kristin

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Prayerfully do something kind for someone you’ve judged or considered unworthy.