A Missing in Action Word for Christians: Reclaiming Kindness

by David Chadwick

How do we reclaim kindness? A term that is missing in action both in secular culture and among Christ followers. I strongly believe we are in times where those of us who profess Jesus as Lord must exercise kindness.

But how? Our world is so hostile and volatile. What do we even do?

I’m glad you asked.

We must begin with observing the nature and character of God.

God demonstrates his kindness to all of creation (Psalm 145:9). In fact, many theologians refer to his kindness as “common grace,” which means that even the wicked get to experience some of it. Those who rebel against the Lord still get to breathe his air, eat his food, and enjoy all of his goodness in this world.

Remember, as I mentioned to you yesterday, it is also the kindness of the Lord that brings people into repentance (Romans 2:4). While we were still sinners - enemies of God - Jesus still came and died for us (Romans 5:8).

This is the most profound belief of the Christian faith. The God of creation chose to come down to the squalor of this earth in human form to provide a way back to him. To this day, there has never been a more majestic display of love than this - seeing God come down to fight for a restoration of the relationship that was broken because of sin!

The kindness that God displayed in his quest to restore creation back to its original intent should draw those of us who profess faith in Jesus to a life of holiness and godliness. It should make us want to repent of anything that we know God hates.

Spend some time thinking today about God’s kindness to you. He did not give you what you deserve - an eternity in hell! Rather, because he is rich in grace, mercy and kindness, he chose to forgive you of your sins and offer you the gift of eternal life!

Thank him for this rich kindness. Both today and forevermore.

A Missing in Action Word for Christians: Kindness

by David Chadwick

I believe kindness is one of the things that is missing in action in today’s society. Where has it gone? Generally speaking, kindness is defined as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. If you were to look around, I bet you would agree with me that these traits are hard to come by right now.

Biblically speaking, kindness is also a fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Jesus expects it to be present in the lives of his followers. God’s definition of kindness runs far deeper than any cultural understanding. Micah 6:8 says we are to “love kindness.” Zechariah 7:9 says to “show kindness and mercy to one another.” Colossians 3:12 says we should “put on kindness.” 1 Corinthians 13:4 says that “love is patient and kind.”

Jesus said in Matthew 24:12 that the evidence of the end times will be that the love of many will grow cold. Can you see this happening? It is becoming increasingly common in our world to see the heart of humanity growing increasingly cold.

But in the kingdom of heaven, kindness is not merely a “feel good” emotion. The deep kindness of the Lord provokes a willingness to serve others - yes, even those who are ungrateful and difficult. Kindness gives us the power to do hard things. In fact, Romans 2:4 says that it is God’s kindness that leads us to repentance. Think for a moment about the magnitude of power behind the kindness of the Lord! His kindness is so incredible that it is powerful enough to provoke lasting change in our lives!

I want this week to serve as a kindness check for all of us. Begin to check your hearts and examine yourselves to see where kindness may be lost, where your hearts may be growing cold. Then, I want to encourage all of us to reclaim kindness as a normal part of the vocabulary for Christ followers.

Kindness should not be an afterthought. It should not be a missing in action trait of Christians. We should exercise kindness as a regular, daily part of our lives.

Let’s start tomorrow by learning how to reclaim kindness!

From the Cross: Substance Abuse

by David Chadwick

Substance abuse is the final topic we are going to look at in our series “From the Cross.” It is usually thought of as people’s misuse of things like alcohol, drugs, and pornography. But I would argue that there are a multitude of “substances” that can be abused. For today’s purposes, I am defining substance abuse as the misuse of any worldly pleasure in order to cope and be able to function from day to day.

Substance abuse is a lot like idolatry. People can have addictions to all sorts of things: power, money, shopping, success, the need to be liked by others, gambling, smartphones, and even food.

Notice the word “substance.” It is something that gives you a rush or something you need to get through your day. A substance gives you identity and meaning. It is the worship of something in creation that takes the place of the Creator.

So how do you gain victory over “substance” abuse? What is the answer to this problem?

First, recognize that the substance you crave is an idol and call it as such. Confess it. Own it. Acknowledge it. This puts you back in your rightful place under the Lordship of Jesus as you acknowledge that a created object has taken the rightful place that only your Creator should have! When you admit something, that is the first step in healing.

Secondly, hate what the addiction to this substance has done to your life. It has controlled you. It has mastered your will.

Third, and this one is key, you must replace your love for whatever substance has a hold on you with a greater love. In my opinion and experience, the only love I know that is stronger than a substance is the love, grace, and mercy of Jesus.

We must come face to face with his love. Jesus did not give us hell that we deserved, which is his mercy. But instead, he gives us eternity in heaven and so many blessings that we don’t deserve, which is his grace. As you contemplate the wonderful cross, you pour contempt on your pride. Your desire to please Jesus becomes greater than your desire for any addiction, false gods, substances, or idols. An encounter with Jesus will crush your contemptuous rebellion against God and his authority in your life.

If you follow Jesus, you are now a worshipper of the one, true God. Jesus now holds the seat of honor and authority in your life. You are called to seek first his kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Your flesh and the lusts of your earthly passions have been crucified (Galatians 2:2). You are now free to love Jesus and others with all that is in you! This is God’s will for your life!