Kindness

Kindness is often described as being friendly, caring, thoughtful, supportive and considerate of the feelings of others.  It is best expressed through showing “love in little acts” (John Drescher, 1974).  I Corinthians 13:4 states “Love is kind” and, therefore, it follows that kindness comes from a heart filled with love.  The mission for the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is “make kindness the norm.”  Rather than just one day or one week in February to focus on kindness, it is a worthwhile goal for Christians to ‘make kindness the norm’ all year.  As the lyrics in the song, Try A Little Kindness, state: “You got to try a little kindness Yes, show a little kindness . . .”    

Remember:  “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop

Goodness

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” —Desmond Tutu. 

Goodness is love in action and demonstrates our character, focusing on the motives behind what we do and say.  “Goodness refers to the strong, the pure, the sincere within which it springs forth in godlike action toward others” (John Drescher, 1974).  In other words, goodness is active godliness and serves without requiring appreciation; sees a need and acts appropriately; stands by the lonely and less fortunate; and is willing to take the time to encourage those who are discouraged.  Goodness sees opportunities to love and serve just as Jesus did.