An Alphabet for Change: Observations on a Life TransformedSample

B - Benevolence (charitableness; unselfishness)

“Never walk away from someone who deserves help; your hand is God’s hand for that person. Don’t tell your neighbor ‘Maybe some other time’ or ‘Try me tomorrow’ when the money’s right there in your pocket.”

~ Proverbs 3:27-28 (MSG)

Most people would probably think of the word generosity when hearing the term "benevolence." When someone is benevolent, they typically are a generous person. However, if you dig a little deeper, you will find that there is something greater to the idea of benevolence.

The dictionary defines benevolence as “an inclination to do good; kindliness.” I would argue that a person can be generous without being benevolent. The question really comes down to the motive of the heart. Benevolence is charity or generosity that is rooted in kindness and goodness. If the primary motivation is a tax break or public recognition, then it is not truly benevolent giving.

Jesus was benevolent with his time and resources. It flowed out of his character; it flowed out of his goodness; it flowed out of his love. If we expect to experience true transformation in our lives, we should strive to align our character with that of Jesus. If you read Matthew 25:34-46, you will hear what Jesus had to say about benevolence. Although he doesn’t specifically name it as such, his illustration seems to embody the essence of our definition.

So many people that read this passage instantly jump to what is being said to “the goats.” Jesus’ warning and ultimate rebuke become motivation to go on a short-term mission trip or join a service project team. Don’t get me wrong, these are worthwhile endeavors, but Jesus is not outlining a checklist of things that must be done to receive his blessings. The Pharisees were already practicing the checklist concept of being made right with God, and you see how Jesus interacted and responded with them. I believe Jesus’ descriptions of these acts is meant to be a tangible and clear outline of benevolence.

Besides the obvious description of the final judgement, when you begin to wrap the concept of benevolence around this passage, there is so much beauty revealed. First, Jesus uses the term king and not judge. The term benevolent king has been popular throughout history. It typically has been used to describe a monarch that shows regard for the benefit of his subjects, despite having absolute political power. In Jesus’ story, the king is actually shining a light on the benevolent actions of some of his subjects (the “sheep”).

More important, however, is how this story conveys the matter of the heart. The sheep are bewildered and confused when the king mentions all the kind and charitable things done for him. Why? Because they didn’t perform these acts for the king but rather for neighbors, relatives, friends, and others less fortunate. They also didn’t do it for reward, as evident by their astonishment at the king’s proclamation. Benevolence is being charitable and kind because of the goodness and love in one’s heart.

Stepping Toward Transformation:

Generosity toward others is considered a noble attribute, but what if the motives behind the action are selfish? Benevolence is charity or generosity that is rooted in kindness and goodness. Ultimately, it is doing things for others out of love.

What are some actionable things you could begin doing daily to start making benevolence a part of who you are?