The Kindness Paradox: Why kindness matters.

The Power of Kindness: A Reflection on God's Love and Our Actions

Not long ago, during a conversation with some colleagues, one person mentioned that she could only do something for someone if that person had done the same for her before. It got me thinking: has friendship become conditional? It seems that true kindness in relationships is becoming increasingly rare.

In today’s world, many people tie their kindness to expectations, hoping for something in return. Others may seem indifferent, focused only on themselves. This raises an intriguing question: what if God had applied the same logic? What if He had chosen not to send His only Son to die for us, expecting something in return? How different would life have been?

The kindness God showed by sending His Son to die for us is unparalleled. It is a love that cannot replaced. Kindness, at its core, is genuine care, consideration, and love for those around us. It is love in action. I often wonder where people have learned the type of kindness they claim to offer in friendships, relationships, and with family.

There’s a saying that "kindness is free," but true kindness—given without any expectation of reward—is both rare and precious. Kindness manifests through actions of care, patience, attention, and help, all aimed at ensuring others' comfort. Wherever kindness exists, love follows.

The birth of Christ is the greatest form of kindness, a lovestruck moment that changed the course of history. It is the reason we celebrate His birth and the reason we strive to emulate His example. Just as "Acts of Service" is considered one of the love languages, kindness is often displayed through our actions and reactions. It is a choice we make daily, and it’s not just about tolerance—it’s about embodying moral excellence.

For many, kindness doesn’t come easily. Past hurts and negative experiences can make it difficult to show compassion. However, God’s word reminds us in Luke 6:35 (NKJV), "But love your enemies..." As children of God, we must consciously choose to be kind and to radiate God's love in all we do. Our true identity can only be found in the Lord and in His Word.

I am reminded of a moment from my teenage years. One evening, I was walking home from a wedding when a young boy, around 5 or 6 years old, approached me. Although I couldn’t understand him, I assumed he was asking for money. As I tried to walk past him, he began following me. It wasn’t until I stopped that I realized he was ringing a bell. He handed me the bell that had fallen off my shoe, showing kindness when I least expected it.

I was struck by the boy’s act of kindness. Despite my initial indifference, he responded with love, not because of what he could gain, but because of the genuine care in his heart.

Another instance that comes to mind is a neighbor who, upon my arrival at a new home, consistently checked in on me. She never asked for anything in return; she simply showed kindness.

There are, of course, situations where people’s kindness has been taken for granted, and that can be disheartening. But this should never be a reason to stop being kind. True kindness is about giving to others, even when we know they cannot repay us. It’s about reflecting the love of Jesus, especially when we’ve been hurt.

When we choose kindness, we not only honor God but also create an environment that draws others to Him. Our actions build trust, strengthen relationships, and serve as a testimony to His love.

As Galatians 6:10 (NIV) says, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..." Let us make a conscious effort to choose kindness, to show love and compassion to those around us, and to reflect God’s love in all that we do.

"Your Identity in Christ: A Biblical Perspective"

 

Whenever the question who are you comes up, what comes to your mind? I recently had a conversation that got me pondering this very question. When I asked, "What's your talent?" the person laughed and replied, "Talent? I'm not sure. Who's that one helping?" It made me realize that there's a deeper question at play: Who are you, really? What gives you a sense of identity and confidence?

In today's world, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that our identity is tied to our jobs, social media profiles, or material possessions. But the truth is, our insecure nature as humans craves a sense of belonging, and social media can create a false sense of identity. As believers, we need to remember that our true identity is found in Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" When we become born-again believers, our identity changes. We become carriers of God's light, and in Him, we discover our true selves. It's not about losing but about stepping into an identity discovery with the Lord.

Our true identity is not sin; it's about who God is. As 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us, "You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's possession." This is who we are, and it's essential to remember that our identity shouldn't be based on things that can be taken away or that hold no lasting value.

Sadly, many believers struggle to recognize their place in Christ and, consequently, their true identity. But knowing who we are and where we belong is crucial. It gives us a sense of belonging, completeness, and continuity. As Ephesians 2:10 says, "We are God's handiwork, created for good works." Our identity should be rooted in Christ alone, for it's in Him that our true selves emerge.

Friend, take some time out to reflect on your identity. Who are you, really? What gives you confidence and a sense of purpose? Remember, your true identity is found in Christ, and that's something no one can ever take away.

"God's not done with you yet: Trusting his plan for your life"

Hey there!

Can you believe it's already December, the last month of the year? I'm sure many of us have been reflecting on our New Year's resolutions and prayer points, seeing which ones have been answered and which ones are still pending.

But here's the thing: God is not limited by time. Even with just a few weeks left in the year, He can still do the impossible. We may have faced setbacks and delays over the past 11 months, but God wants us to know that He's heard every single one of our prayers and pleas.

Don't give up! Press on in faith and patience, and trust that God will make it happen in His perfect timing. As Romans 8:28 reminds us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." (NIV)

I want to let you know that God is not done with you yet! He knows that many of your prayer points are still pending, but He's promising that you'll end the year well, with everything in place.

Remember, God's plans for us are far beyond what we can imagine. As the Bible says, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9, NLT)

God is not bound by time; He can change our circumstances in an instant. That's why I'm convinced that God is not done with you yet!

Hang in there, and let's trust God to do the impossible in our lives!

MARKED: What Does it Mean to be Marked by God?

What Does it Mean to be Marked by God?*

When I pondered the word "marked," I searched for a perfect definition. I found various meanings, including distinguished characteristics, chosen, and graded. However, the archaic meaning of "marked" as "attention" resonated deeply with me.

Attention from God.

In God's word, Psalm 67 says:

God, mark us with grace and blessing! Smile!

The whole country will see how you work,

all the godless nations see how you save.

God! Let people thank and enjoy you.

Let all people thank and enjoy you.

Let all far-flung people become happy and shout their happiness

because You judge them fair and square,

you tend the far-flung people.

God! Let people thank and enjoy you.

Let all people thank and enjoy you.

Earth, display your exuberance!

You mark us with blessing, O God, our God.

You mark us with blessing, O God.

Earth's four corners - honor him!

At first, the psalmist had the posture of asking or inquiring, but when the psalmist got to verses 6 and 7, he acknowledged that he had already been marked by God. God has marked us with His blessing. We have the full attention of the Almighty God, and that means He has placed us on the spot to showcase His glory and God never forgets those He marks.

Because we have been marked, we are not just mere mortals. When we wake up each day, we should step out with the full consciousness and confidence of one God has specifically distinguished for grace and blessing. The enemy does not dictate our lives, but our detailed lives have been written out by God, and He said we are marked.

Trusting in God's Promises

Even in difficult circumstances, we can trust in God's promises. After getting up from bed and seeing the number of bills that I was stuck with, the groceries were out and I was low on cash, yes I became low on emotional support, but God reminded me that I am marked for His blessing and grace. He placed a word in my heart for that moment. 

The miracle is not just in the plenty but also in the little.

Our declaration to God each day is: "You mark us with blessing, O God, our God." 

And beloved you have God's full attention. 

Stay Revived!