“A kind word is like a spring day.” —Russian proverb
Spring and kindness just seem to go together. The world is awakening from its frozen sleep as life becomes evident in nature. So, what better time is there, in this life-giving season, than to give of ourselves?
Titus 2:7 in the NLT says, “And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.”
Dwight L. Moody’s advice is to “do all the good you can, to all the people you can, in all the ways you can, as long as ever you can.”
- Do all the good you can. Opportunities are everywhere if we open our hearts, eyes, and ears to notice. People are hurting, and sometimes only need a timely word to keep putting one foot in front of the other.
- To all the people you can. That means everyone, regardless of race, gender, and culture. Sadly, people sometimes tie kindness to conditions, thus robbing the freedom of the act.
- In all the ways you can. I advocate being part of a church or community group when it comes to encouragement. Working with other people to reach out to the community helps relieve the awkwardness and fear sometimes involved.
- As long as ever you can. You never retire from simple acts of kindness. If I’m in a place where I can’t do something in the physical, I can stop and pray. And prayer changes things.
What an inspiring way to add value to people. John C. Maxwell said, “People never care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
Do you find kindness to be seasonal? Or is it a daily practice? I’d love to know what you think…
To everyone I meet, I reflect the Lord, whether they know it or not. I’m very conscious that my conduct matters with whoever I’m in contact with.