Kindness
By Pastor Jeannette Parrott Kindness - why was it so easy to practice "this" fruit of the Spirit when we first got married? (Galatians 5:22-23). But as time went on, "kindness" became a labor to put in action and being "rude" became easier to practice. There is a kindness movement in the world even now as we speak. It sounds simple enough. There are even signs in people's yards that say "Just Be Kind". We would tend to think we wouldn't have to tell each other that. However, the mere fact that someone had to establish a movement when actually that movement had already been established in the Bible demonstrates the sad reality of our state of being. But we need reminders, even yard signs, because in fact, kindness is starting to be on the endangered list. Everything begins at home. You've heard the saying charity begins at home. In fact, everything begins at home. If we are rude to each other at home, why are we surprised that that same behavior is demonstrated in the public?? I believe it's a true statement that familiarity breeds contempt. In marriage, how do we fight this tendency to be complacent and familiar? By remaining grateful. I've noticed in my life that it's very hard for me to take for granted something that I continually thank God for. My gratefulness makes that thing remain a "fresh" blessing in my life. No matter how long I have possessed it, I continue to thank God for it and it remains as it should a precious gift in my heart. So what if I as a wife would take that same mindset and apply it to my husband? Wonder what would happen if I remained grateful for the "gift" of my husband? James 1:17 "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." Understanding that all good and pleasant things come from above. Would that mindset change my interaction with my husband?? Would I be careful how I treated the gift that God had given me? Would I rephrase my statements and my questions into a kinder, gentler, tone remembering that I'm addressing my gift that really belongs to God? In my lifetime I have had the Lord push the "rewind" button and play back to me how I sounded when I made a statement to my husband. Then the Lord would ask me, "Would you have said that to me in that same tone?" It was the Lord's kind but firm way of reminding me that I'm always in the presence of God and I need to remain careful how I address my husband. The dictionary defines Kindness as "the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate." Romans 12:10 "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another" As I pray for my husband, I pray that I will never forget the "gift" that my husband is to my life from my heavenly Father. Lord, thank you for the gift You have given me and I remain grateful to you.
