The Fruit of the Spirit: Be Kind

by David Chadwick

The fifth fruit of the Spirit is kindness.

The dictionary definition of kindness is “the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.” What a rich word! In the Greek language (chrestotes), it is defined as excellence or uprightness.

Kindness is a fruit that is mostly directed toward another person. Generally speaking, kindness is meant to benefit those who are in our immediate circle and those around the world. Kindness is what drives the bride of Christ to serve and to give our lives away. Kindness is what compels us to a life of sacrifice.

Jesus calls his followers to serve, not to be served. Jesus himself “came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).

However, I will add, one will only be as kind to others as he or she is willing to be kind to himself or herself. You must learn to be kind to yourself so that your life will extend kindness to those around you. If you do not see yourself as a blood-bought, redeemed, purchased son or daughter of the Most High God, you will have a hard time treating others the way God sees them. As Paul said in Romans 2:2: “Let the kindness of God bring you to repentance.”

As you are reminded of your own forgiveness, you will show goodness to others. You will be generous with others. You will be able to show both sympathy and empathy. Empathy is especially important because it allows you to jump into someone else's shoes and have a heart of understanding for their situation. Empathy is the ability to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes.

This, too, is an attitude of God. It is the kindness of God that draws us to repentance. Seeing God’s kindness should prompt us to change our hearts to be more like him, eschewing anything that is contrary to his will and character.

As we pray and abide, may we all be driven deeper into the Spirit, who will then naturally give us more kindness toward others.