Biblical Answer

What's the best way to show kindness to those around us?

Practicing Kindness in Everyday Life

To show kindness to those around us, we must first understand the importance of kindness in our relationships with others. As Jesus teaches, we should treat others with kindness and respect, even when it's not easy (Matthew 7:12). This means being mindful of our words, thoughts, and deeds, and striving to be kind in all our interactions. We can start by practicing good manners, such as saying please and thank you, and treating people with respect and dignity.

Authentic Kindness

However, kindness is not just about putting on a friendly face or pretending to be someone we're not. Authentic kindness comes from a genuine desire to help and care for others. When we're not feeling particularly friendly, we can still choose to be kind by putting others first and showing compassion. This means being willing to listen, offer help, and forgive those who may have wronged us. As Jesus teaches, we should show kindness even to those who may not deserve it, and not just to those who are kind to us (Matthew 5:44).

Sustaining Kindness

To sustain kindness in our lives, we must cultivate a heart that is sensitive to the needs of others. We can do this by being mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions, and by seeking to understand and empathize with others. As the Bible teaches, we should "bind kindness and truth around our neck, write them on the tablet of our heart" (Proverbs 3:3-4). By doing so, we can become the kind of people who are known for their kindness, and who bring joy and hope to those around us. This is the best way to show kindness to those around us, and it's a quality that can have a lasting impact on our relationships and our world.