Kindness

Kindness

Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

“BE YE KIND one to another” (Ephesians 4:32, KJV). We may have memorized it as children, but have we forgotten it as adults? Kindness is one of the traits of love, as defined in the Bible’s famous “love chapter,” 1 Corinthians 13: “Love is patient and kind” (v. 4). Do you consciously think of being kind to your spouse throughout the day? Kindness is expressed in the way we talk as well as in what we do. Yelling and screaming are not kind. Speaking softly and respectfully is. So is taking the time to have a meaningful conversation with a spouse who is lonely, upset, or uncertain.

Then there are acts of kindness—things we do to help others. When we focus our energy on doing kind things for each other, our relationship can be rejuvenated. What could you do today to be kind to your spouse? Maybe it’s taking on a chore that’s not typically your responsibility, or bringing him or her a cup of coffee in bed. Or perhaps it’s giving an encouraging note or bringing home a favorite treat. These are small things, but they can have a big impact. Imagine what your relationship would be like if you both emphasized kindness.

Lord Jesus, I want to show my love through kindness. Please help me to think of great ways today to be kind to the one I love.

Kindness