Kindness | Resource Guide
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Kindness – In Galatians 5:22, the word that is normally translated as ‘kindness’ is the Greek word chrestotes. It refers to having an excellent character (as defined by God). Kindness points to having integrity. We faithfully abide by God’s code of conduct: we love our neighbor as ourself and, indeed, as Jesus loves us. Being kind means to be helpful or useful to another in a way that doesn’t also harm them. An example of so-called ‘kindness’ that really is harmful to another would be co-dependent behavior. This enables the person to increase their guilt before God instead of appropriately resisting their wrongdoing. Furthermore, kindness must be respectful because some force their ‘kindness’ onto others largely so they can feel better about themselves. Their ‘kindness’ is ultimately about meeting their own needs.
If we are kind, we are good and as gentle as the situation allows. We are upright in our relationships, treating others with the love and respect that the Lord demands. This includes the idea of being honest and of treating others the way the Lord has treated us. We are compassionate. We want people to be spared from emotional injury and to feel loved. Hence, kindness acts in ways that are considerate, helpful, and gracious while avoiding harshness or indifference because the feelings of others matter to us. If there is no kindness then there is no love since kindness is a key aspect of agape love. To be kind is to be courteous.
Ephesians 4:32 (NASB) commands us to be kind to one another. The word here includes the idea of acting in a way that is appropriate for each particular situation. It refers to someone who behaves in ways that are considerate and proper and does so with a smile. Titus 3:2 (NASB) tells those who believe in Christ to be considerate to each person. The word here includes the idea of being ‘courteous’ in a context where believers are to avoid behaviors that would unnecessarily tarnish their public image. The word points to believers having behavior that is ‘appropriate.’ Similarly, a slightly different form of the word is used at 1 Timothy 3:3 for the quality someone must have to be considered for Christian eldership. Again, the word refers to displaying ‘courtesy’ and being ‘suitable.’ We are to be well-mannered, not rude or unmannerly. Finally, 1 Corinthians 15:33 reminds us that bad company is to be avoided, when reasonably possible, because it will tend to ruin good morals, good character, good ways, good habits, good customs, and good manners.