“Kindness Transforms”
By Dianne Prince
“Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Can’t you see that His kindness is intended to turn you from your sin” (Romans 2:4, NLT)?
Today’s scripture reminds us of what God’s grace and His mercy looks like. It also reminds us that God desires that none of us perish, but that all of us be saved. So, He holds back his judgement and gives all of us time to change. He gives us time. He gives our children time. He gives our extended family time. And he gives the perfect stranger time.
God created each of us with the ability and freedom to choose whether to live by His statutes or by our own rules. Some choose a morally upright life, while others go their own way. Regardless of our choices, God shows us love.
God did not tell us to love others only if they live right. He commanded us to love everyone, regardless of how they choose to live. Why? Because as long as there is life, there is hope for change. Our prayers and kindness might be exactly what someone needs to turn in the right direction.
Remember this today: When you encounter those living outside God’s will, do not mistreat, ignore, or avoid them. Instead, consult God on how to handle each situation. He will give you discernment on what to say, what not to say, what to do, and when to step back. God will also give you the wisdom to know when to show tough love and when to go easy on them.
Today, show love to those living outside God’s will, even in the midst of their poor choices. Harsh words will not lead them to change, but witnessing to them when God opens the door might. And always pray for their deliverance.
Just as God’s kindness is intended to turn us from sin, our kindness can do the same for others. Love is what leads people to repentance and puts them on the path to right living.
