Kindness

The word “kind” in today’s proverb is translated from the Hebrew word chesed. It is sometimes translated as “love,” “lovingkindness,” or even “loyal love.” Chesed is a rich theological word, and…it is also very practical.

I officiated a memorial service for Lois, a believer who followed hard after Jesus. One word that described her entire life was “service.” Not long before she died, her daughter-in-law took several of Lois’ great-grandchildren to visit her in a care facility. They became worried when she was not in her room and began searching for her. Finally, they found Lois at the end of a hall in her wheelchair, reading to a person who could not see.

“Hatred stirs up strife,” the proverb says (Proverbs 10:12a). It’s true, isn’t it? When we dislike a person, we want to prove them wrong. If they say, “Up,” we say, “Down!” If they say, “Right,” we say, “Left!” If they say the sky is blue, we argue it is more like turquoise. Dislike for another person drives us to demonstrate animosity. However, there is a second part to the proverb. “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses” (Prov 10:12b). Peter paraphrases this proverb in our passage today.

Don’t try to blame others or rationalize. Own up to what you said or did and replace selfishness with kindness. When you do, you are benefiting yourself…and others. 

So, here’s the question—are you chasing after the right things? Things that will last for eternity. Things that will honor God. Things that will point people to him. If you are not running in the right direction, chances are you’ll end up at the wrong destination. 

Ask God to help you read his Word every day (or keep reading his Word every day).

The qualities of goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love should be added to our faith.