Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
—Ephesians 4:32

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy.
—Titus 3:4–5

Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.
—Proverbs 11:17

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Fruit: Kindness
By Jennifer Kane

Kindness is mercy in gentle form,
A tender hand, a heart made warm.
It flows from grace the Lord has shown,
From love that we have freely known.

It does no harm, it seeks no gain,
It lifts the low, it soothes the pain.
Not born of pride, nor empty praise,
But shaped by God through all our days.

When we recall the debt He paid,
The cross where boundless love was laid,
Our hearts grow soft, our hands extend,
To bless the stranger, foe, or friend.

Kindness will stoop where others pass,
It offers hope, it speaks with class.
It shares the bread, it gives the coat,
It builds the bridge, it keeps afloat.

For Christ appeared with love so pure,
His mercy deep, His kindness sure.
Not by our works, nor righteous claim,
But by His grace we bear His name.

So let this fruit be sweet and clear,
A mark of those who hold Him dear.
For kindness born of grace divine
Will bear the stamp of love’s own sign.

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Scripture: Ephesians 4:32, Titus 3:4–5,
Proverbs 11:17

True kindness is more than politeness or a pleasant tone—it is a reflection of the grace we ourselves have received from God. Paul’s words in Ephesians link kindness directly with compassion and forgiveness, reminding us that our kindness toward others should flow from the well of mercy God has poured out on us.

When we remember how deeply Christ has forgiven us—how He met us in our sin, bore our punishment, and welcomed us into His family—we find it easier to extend kindness, even when it’s undeserved. This is the kindness of God Himself.

The world often offers kindness selectively, based on convenience or personal benefit. But the kindness that is a fruit of the Spirit is steady and unconditional—it meets needs without seeking repayment and shows grace even when wronged.

Kindness blesses both the giver and the receiver. It creates spaces where healing can begin, trust can grow, and God’s love can be felt in tangible ways.

Every act of kindness is a small echo of the greatest kindness ever shown—the cross. And every time we choose kindness, we bear witness to the transforming power of God’s forgiveness in our own lives.

How has God’s kindness and forgiveness shaped your life personally?
Who in your life might need to experience God’s kindness through you right now?
Is there someone you’ve been withholding kindness from because of hurt or resentment?

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Father, thank You for showing me kindness beyond measure through Jesus Christ. Let that same kindness flow from my heart toward others, even when it is difficult. Help me to forgive as I have been forgiven, and to show compassion that reflects Your grace. May my words and actions point others to You, the source of all true kindness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

August 12 2025