Kindness Looks Like.....

A life noted by kindness. That's what a woman in the book of Acts is known for.

There was a believer in Joppa named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas ). She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor.  (Acts 9:36 NLT)

Kindness can look different in many ways, but one common theme would be sacrificing your own interests for others. Way too often I am thinking of myself: how I feel, my burdens, etc. But Galatians 5 reminds us this should be exemplary in every believer's life.

And our families are the ones who get the short end of the stick so often. I mean, isn't it easier to offer kindness in words or deeds to those who will praise you or reward you somehow? I know I tend to be much more short and snappy in my speech in my home out of impatience (oh, dear, another fruit of the Spirit) and wrong motives. After all, who wants to pick up those dirty socks after the 11millionth time! And yet, the kindness of God is what leads us to repentance. 

So today (and hopefully, every day) I am focusing on my actions and speech. This will not be easy! (I was just interrupted by a little sweetie who wanted to show me her science kit, yet has not done anything she was supposed to yet. These are the hard moments of keeping a sweet attitude and bring firm...oh boy!)

For others in my home it may look different! It may be a simple action that was not asked for. A going-out-of-my-way task to show them love. (They could care less about words right now.)

At other times it may mean overcoming evil with good. Blessing my "enemy"; not cursing! 

And this is all done through the help of the Holy Spirit.

Not alone! For I am not capable of such a thing. 

Revive our hearts (Nancy Leigh DeMoss) has put out a 30 Day Challenge called the Power of Words. It is a little booklet that can be an aid to challenge you to really think through those tiny things that come out of your mouth. 

I am taking the challenge!

My Speech

You may read the title of this blog and be expecting some grandiose written presentation.

NOT!

For the speech I am referring to is the oral poison or gems that come out of my mouth daily. And so many days it is the former. For if I just thought before I spoke, so much would be different. So Much!

As I have been taking in the first couple of chapters in Elizabeth George's book, Beautiful In God's Eyes, I learn these essentials:

1. Speak less often.
Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.

2. Speak only after we think about what we are going to say.
Proverbs 15:28 The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.

3. Speak only what is sweet and pleasant.
Proverbs 16:21 The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.

4. Speak only what is wise and kind.
Proverbs 31:26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

My friends, our words will cut or heal. They will bring life or death.

What are your words saying today?

Words of Life

Ephesians 4:29-32

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

The Puebla Ponderosa has been meditating on these verses lately as conflict arises daily. And most, if not all, conflict is started by our words.

Do we realize that every words that comes from our mouths are not just directed at the other person, but ultimately towards God. For all men are created in His image. When we call names, show impatience, cut someone off in a conversation, speak bitter or anger words, and many more things, we are aiming all those "arrows" at our Lord.

I have encouraged my children to stop before they open their mouths and think about what they want to say. If we would all do that, there would be so much less pain in our words. Our words can cut to the very soul. OR our words can bring life and healing.

What are your words bringing forth today?