Thoughts for Life: Why Perform Acts of Kindness?

Jean Oathout challenges us with the
question, "Why perform acts of
kindness?"

Is there something "magical" in living
this kind of life?

Why do some people seem to be able to be
so kind to everyone, and others have such a difficult time of it?

Kindness is treating other people humanely, as you would want to be treated. The challenge is to do it with a joyful heart.

Joe Stowell says on Our Daily Bread 8/23/14- He (Jesus) reminded us that because of Him we are "the light of the world" (Matt. 5:14) and that our good deeds would be the power against the darkness for the glory of God (v16).

There is one force that the darkness cannot conquer—the force of loving acts of kindness done in Jesus' name.

It is God's people who turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, and forgive and even love their enemies who oppose them who have the power to turn the tide against evil.

So look for the privileged opportunity to perform acts of kindness today to bring the light of Christ to others.

Light up your world with an act of kindness." (ODB)

Col. 3:12 tells us to put on kindness, among other things, as the elect of God, for we are holy and beloved.

2 Peter 1:7 tells us: "Add to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity." (love)

Isiah 63:7 tells us of the Kindnesses of the LORD.

Diana Derringer shares from One Good Turn Deserves Another:
"A popular idea in recent years is the Random Act of Kindness Day. On that day each year, people do something good for others for no special reason. The day receives a great deal of publicity, and people feel good about it.

I appreciate those efforts. Yet, that’s just once a year. What keeps us from performing random acts of kindness every day? Our kind acts don’t have to be big. In fact, the small kindnesses often mean the most.

A greater challenge is to be kind to those who are unkind to us. Think about the difference in our world if we practiced that.

Some people might be so surprised they stop their cruel acts.
Other people might think we’re crazy and continue their unkind behavior.
A few might wonder what causes us to act that way and desire a similar life for themselves.

Why not give it a try and see what happens?

In a world filled with conflict, let’s be like a carousel and

keep the good turns going."

Let’s pray:

Father, this is quite a
challenge, and I intend
to following through with
it the best I can.

There are times when it
will be hard with certain people, but with Your help and guidance, I trust that You'll make me able to be kind.

Some folks just are not "lovable", so I'll need to pray more to be kind to them.

Eddie Jones tells us below, that we are being tested in tough times, so please make me more kind in all that comes my way, so I'll glorify You.

Help me remember that I need to be kinder than necessary, for everyone I'll meet is fighting some kind of battle.

In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Today’s Bible verse: Ps. 119:88 "Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth."

Today’s quote: Eddie Jones – “He is able to help those who are tested. Tough times are the practice fields of life. Without trying times and trials, we cannot bear burdens for others. When tested, turn to God. He is able to carry you through difficulties.”

Some thoughts today: You don't "get it right" to get saved, but you get saved to get it right! God, and God alone does the work of saving your soul.

- If you're serious about a newness of life, line up with it in
all aspects of your life. Let signs show! The outside changes
come before the inside changes. Study God's Word so inside changes can be made.

- Connections matter. Everything connected to you must say the same thing. Release connections that hold you back.

9/5- Sunday's post: But I Don't Feel Like Forgiving!
Mary Southerland

7th- Tuesday's post: #5 Strategic-level Spiritual Warfare
C. Peter Wagner

9th- Thursday's post: #6 The Focus of PRAYER WARFARE
C. Peter Wagner
11th- Saturday's post: Step Up
Dave Branon

A popular post: 8 Free Gifts You Should Give

As seen on GodVine
(Google image added)

THE GIFT OF LISTENING . . .
But you must REALLY listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming,
no planning your response. Just listening.

THE GIFT OF AFFECTION . . .
Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back...

jowildflowers@gmail.com

Samples of Jean's crafts

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