A Virtuous LifeSample

Kindness

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

As we follow the lead of the Holy Spirit, He will work within us to make us more like Jesus. To make us into people of virtue who live like Jesus and love like Jesus. And one of Jesus’ defining attributes was His kindness to friends and enemies. It didn’t matter who a person was or what they had done; Jesus was always committed to showing them the kindness of God. He healed those who were sick, cast out demons from those who were oppressed, comforted the grieving, corrected those who had been misled, and even prayed for God to forgive the very people carrying out His crucifixion.

One of the most Christlike things you can do is be kind to those who are unkind to you.

“Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. Luke 6:35-36 NLT

But it’s important for us to recognize that the kindness of God demonstrated through the life of Jesus was never a license for people to continue sinning. His kindness was always meant to draw people to Himself and into the way of life they were created for.

Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Romans 2:4 NLT

Because God loves us, He doesn’t turn a blind eye to our damaging beliefs, our hateful words, or our sinful actions. He loves us enough to call evil what it is and call us to repentance—to turn away from our sin and toward the life and freedom He offers.

Understanding the kindness of God matters so much because if we aren’t careful, we can fall into the trap of offering empathy without accountability. Empathy is a beautiful act of kindness that allows another person to be seen and known. Empathy is a gift we extend to others because we care about them. And, sometimes, that’s all love requires of us in a relationship or situation. But often, in addition to empathy (an expression of grace), love requires accountability (a demonstration of truth).

For the woman caught in the act of adultery, Jesus extended kindness that was intended to help her turn from her sin:

… “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” John 8:10-11 NLT

This is what the kindness of Jesus looked like in action. Compassion without condemnation. Empathy with accountability. Grace and truth. This is the kindness that Jesus gives to us, and it’s what we are called to share with others. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit is here to help us.

In Ephesians 4, the Apostle Paul lays out how the Holy Spirit works in us to make us more like Jesus and how we can work alongside Him to develop and demonstrate the virtue of kindness. Starting in verse 21, he writes:

Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:21-24 NLT

Once we’ve learned the truth of who Jesus is and what it means to be His followers, it’s time to change our lives and chase after Him! How? We let the Holy Spirit change our thoughts and attitudes as we put on righteousness and holiness. What does that look like?

Telling the truth.

So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. Ephesians 4:25 NLT

Refusing to let anger rule.

And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT

Giving instead of taking.

If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Ephesians 4:28 NLT

Using your words to build up, not tear down.

Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29 NLT

Replacing evil with kindness.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32 NLT

When we do our best to let the Holy Spirit align our thoughts and attitudes with Jesus’ and put on holiness and righteousness, the virtue of kindness will be produced in our lives. A kindness that reflects the heart of God for His people, meeting them right where they are with grace and empathy, and calling them to more with truth and accountability.