Constant kindness

Be kind and compassionate to one another.— Ephesians 4:32

When I was a child I was an ardent reader of L. Frank Baum’s Land of Oz books. I recently came across Rinkitink in Oz with all the original artwork. I laughed again at the antics of Baum’s irrepressible, good-hearted King Rinkitink with his down-to-earth goodness. Young Prince Inga described him best: “His heart is kind and gentle and that is far better than being wise.”

How simple and how sensible! Yet who has not wounded the heart of someone dear to us by a harsh word? By doing so, we disturb the peace and quiet of the hour and we can undo much of the good we have done toward those we love. “A small unkindness is a great offense,” said Hannah More, an 18th-century English writer.

Here’s the good news: Anyone can become kind. We may be incapable of preaching an inspiring sermon, fielding hard questions, or evangelizing vast numbers, but we can all be kind.

How? Through prayer. It is the only way to soften our hearts. “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil [or harsh]” (Ps. 141:3–4).

In a world in which love has grown cold, a kindness that comes from the heart of God is one of the most helpful and healing things we can offer to others. – David Roper

Forgive me, Lord, when I bring anger into a situation. Soften my heart and help me use my words to encourage others.

Read: Psalm 141:1–3

The knowledge that God has loved me beyond all limits will compel me to go into the world to love others in the same way. Oswald Chambers

Bible in a Year: Daniel 3–4 and 1 John 5