Random acts of kindness

I smiled inwardly as the head of HR briefed us on the research evidence of the effectiveness of her new initiative to improve staff morale – random acts of kindness. Here was another example of the secular world waking up to the truth of biblical principles, while determined to deny the One who inspires them. I didn’t need to be encouraged to do random acts of kindness, as I was already doing them. It is part of my job description as a Christian (2 Corinthians 6:4-6).

Kindness is an attribute of God (Nehemiah 9:17, Joel 2:13) that is a key driver in our salvation (Ephesians 2:7, Titus 3:4-5). Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It is becoming a rare commodity in the self-centered, individualistic culture that is infecting the West. Yet almost everyone appreciates kindness. And most people recognise it when they see it. My wife is a primary school teacher, and even at a very early age children seem to understand what kindness is.

In the same way that God’s kind acts carry a grace that points people to himself – "God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance" (Romans 2:4) – so our kindness to others can bring them into an encounter with him. It is noticeable precisely because it is contrary to the spirit of the age. As God’s sons and daughters, we have been abundantly blessed, and we should bless others.

So each day we need to be alert to opportunities to bless and show kindness. Whether it is making someone a drink, paying for their lunch, buying flowers or a gift to show our appreciation, or offering to do a colleague’s on-call or other duty when we can see they are tired. There are so many ways in which we can show kindness. In so doing not only do we demonstrate the love of the Father, but I have found that it changes the atmosphere and inspires others to acts of kindness too.

Prayer: Father, how can I bless those around me today?