May 17 2026
Kindness is one of the simplest and most powerful ways Christians can show their faith. In a busy, noisy, and often unkind world, simple kindness stands out. A gentle word, patience, listening well, or a thoughtful act can have a deep impact.
The Apostle Paul writes, “Be kind and compassionate to one another…” (Ephesians 4:32). Kindness is not optional or only for certain people. It is part of the fruit of the Spirit and shows that God is shaping us to be more like Jesus.
Christian kindness is more than just being “nice.” Being nice can avoid hard moments or seek approval. Kindness looks for what is truly good for others (and in others). It is ‘do unto others as others would have you do’. When we begin to do that, God may well open up opportunities to ‘do unto others as God would have for them’. Jesus showed this kind of kindness by welcoming sinners, caring for the overlooked, and restoring those who had failed. At the same time, Jesus spoke the truth with love and courage. Kindness is not weakness; it is strength shown with gentleness.
Often, kindness looks very ordinary: encouraging someone who is tired, noticing someone who feels alone at church, speaking graciously at home, or staying patient when we are stressed.
As we remember how kind God has been to us, we grow kinder toward others. May our church be known not only for what we believe, but for the warmth, grace, and kindness we show every day.
Julian Holdsworth
BSBC Pastor
