KINDNESS, or 'being too nice'

summer's notebook, chapter 7.

we are called to be kind.

1. ephesians 4.32 'be kind and compassionate to one another..'

2. colossians 3.12 'put on a heart of .. kindness'

3. timothy 2.24 ''..must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all.'

defining kindness..

• tenderness and concern for other people
• making the good of others as important as our own
• a sweetness of disposition

'God's grace of kindness should pervade the whole person, mellowing all that might be harsh.'

{learning from opposites} kindness means..

not arguing, not causing strife, not stirring up conflict, and not being mean.

kindness does mean.. caring for, thinking of, considering, and noticing others. pray that you might see the needs of others before your own!

SOMETHING TO ASK YOURSELF:

'what is it like to be yoked with me? am i easy to be with and kind, a person who makes it easier for other people to bear their burdens? or am i an additional burden which other must bear, causing their yoke to chafe and rub, making it more difficult for them.. because they are yoked to a harsh, quarrelsome, wearisome woman?'

things to do today:

1. pray for greater love and compassion for others

2. pray for those who mistreat you

3. spend time studying Jesus's life for examples of kindness

4. make it your goal to be 'too nice'

5. begin making the effort at home to live out God's command to be kind. what does your husband need? or your children? what would make their life easier?

reading assignment: chapter 8, giving in goodness

memory verse: 2 peter 1.5