Christ-like: Kind & Compassionate

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭31‬-‭32

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭31‬-‭32 NIV

One of the hardest things to do in life is to be kind other people. How many times has someone cut in front of you in line, talked about you behind your back, or just plain annoyed you for no reason at all? When you’re in these situations, how do you usually respond?

The easy response is to get even, lash out or do something mean right back to the person who did you wrong. However, as a Christian we are called to love others. This verse challenges us to be kind and forgive others regardless of how they treat you.

You can’t change how someone treats you, but you can choose to respond to them with kindness. The end of this verse is also great. It tells us that we can do this because God in Christ forgave us. When you remember what Jesus did for you and how much He loves you, it empowers you to love others. You begin to value other people when you see how much Jesus loves you.

Why is the act of forgiveness so difficult for some people? Why does it seem easier to let the root of bitterness grow in our heart, rather than humbling ourselves, asking for forgiveness, and forgiving another who has hurt or wronged us?

It seems to be the case that those who are not able to forgive have never come to an understanding how much they have been forgiven, for the more understanding we have of the grace that we have received the deeper our gratitude and the greater our capacity to forgive other people.

Be kind and compassionate, two qualities that seem to be in short supply. Maybe it's because we hold up the wrong heroes. Unfortunately these two qualities are often seen as signs of weakness rather than strength.

To forgive as God forgave us requires great courage and great strength. So let's be strong. Let us be those who are quick to forgive, quick to ask for forgiveness, and in so doing glorify our dear Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!!!

Father thank You for this day and Your grace, mercy, love, and immeasurable forgiveness toward us. Lord let Your abundant blessings be my friend and family’s portion today. Lord may we reflect You in our thoughts, words, and deeds. Lord we pray that we will be kind, compassionate, and forgiving toward others, just as You forgave us. Lord we want the Spirit's fruit to be evident in our words and actions as we submit our will to Your reign in our lives and as we seek Your Kingdom. Be a blessing.

Father, we love You. Amen !