Love and Kindness

As I sit here I am having a difficult time putting down what has been going through my mind and what I'd like to share (adding with what can be an in-depth subject) I want to keep it simple hoping it relevant to what is being shared.  The chosen title could probably include "getting along," as people seem to struggle in this department as we've witnessed over the past decade or so. People every where, even in families are lacking the ability to get along (agree to disagree) with love and kindness. Maybe it's just me ~

People use the word kindness as part of their profiles, and descriptive intros into their Instagram and Facebook pages, as well as when sharing - in ways - pointing out faults of others. On the flip - you could say that love and kindness which a person shares daily is much like living out "Christianity" it is indeed a lifestyle not simply a religion that people use to hide behind and continue pointing out the faults of others. As one professing to be Christian, over the years I have always put forth the effort to not practiced this behavior, however, (We all have faults, yes?) As it is clearly stated in Romans 3:10,12 ESV

"None is righteous, no, not one; .  .  .  no one does good not even one."

The verses I shared in part speak volumes. I'm not saying you have to be a Christian to live a loving and kind lifestyle, but it does depict (should) a believers life who has a relationship with Jesus. 

"as it is written:  

            "None is righteous, no not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one." Romans 3:10-12 

It clearly states what shape the heart of man is in. No one is perfect, we have faults, we make mistakes, we can be prideful and self-centered, worldly, loveless and unkind - even live a life not seeing we are in the state we are in.  My gram would say, "a sad state of affairs we find ourselves." 

Everyone can have issues and bad days - we can even strive to do better and be "good," all the while trying to figure out why things are the way they are.  Why others do as they do and wishing things were different. While in turn not truly making a difference or helping things to improve.  Just wanting "others" to be more loving and kind. 

"Bad behavior from others should not define who you are." 

The older I get I still recognize and share frequently, our responses can be a true test of who we are in growth and maturity, how much time we invest in our relationship with the Lord can be shown through or day by our response with others. It can tell us quickly who we are and whether we need more "growth"and change within ourselves. (always).

I'm sure we've all experienced in conversations, if we are able to have an honest one, how unpleasant it can be when there are disagreements - pick any subject it doesn't matter - when fingers are pointing out as it literally goes in that direction even before a conversation starts, there is no love or kindness with an already negative formed opinion - or ever getting along. In families reconciliations sometimes never happen, people give up stating 'so and so' will never change, this is how they are and have always been .  .  .  I've made this mistake myself and when it comes to mind - hoping to seek forgiveness. But I'm not talking here about outside influences as with - "show me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are." But if truth be told even if that were so, either way we can do better in our responses.

Love and kindness should start with us when responding to others, how we communicate - yes, not always easy; mostly we could look at re-wording instead of flying off the top of our heads and by stepping in with love and that "kindness."  How bout - putting any and all pride aside, maybe a competitive side of having to be heard, it happens. God hears us, He can and will definitely work out all the details. (We need to be willing to let Him help, it's easier that why.) My husband used to say don't send that first draft. Also there will be misunderstanding and mis-interpretations when trying to have in-depth conversation with what was meant for sound bites.

All that I shared, I could share more, are bits and pieces of things I've been thinking recently from current conversations, reading old blog posts about love and Valentines, with a confirmed viewing of a couple scripture verses I wrote down several years ago about how much God loves us and gives us instructions on how to share love and kindness - getting along ~

Love

Who is a God like thee, who pardons iniquity and passes over the rebellious act of the remnant of His possessions? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in unchanging love. Micah 7:18 NASB (He's love is unchanging, I'm thankful - Amen)

So in one of my old little notebooks that had the corner chewed - I had Romans 14:1-23 listed - I'll share in part, I will say that it isn't necessarily about what I'm posting about today, it has valid points to consider when "getting along" with others. Much like today the Christians of the day were disgruntled when Paul wrote Romans. Paul was conveying how they/we should get along, they were concerned over secondary matters much like today. Sadly when we squabble over little things it can set the tone for important ones.

Romans 14, is about principles of conscience and self denial on behalf of others - I love little topical references in my old Bible. I hope you take the time to read the chapter for yourself. 

The verses I chose to share fit well with my title.  I'm using different translations in hopes that everyone can take away something useful while being encouraged.

(1) Now accept the one (other believers NIV) who is weak in faith, but not for the purpose of passing judgement on his opinions. NASB  [without quarreling over disputable matters. NIV] 

Remember this chapter speaks of the disagreements that was happening over food and days reconized. Again, Paul wrote instructions that can be applied to other matters for us today. 

(13) Therefore let us not judge (criticize AMP, stop passing judgement NIV) one another anymore, but rather determine this - not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way. NASB

(17) for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness (living a life of goodness NLT)  and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. NASB

(18) For he who is this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved (favorable opinion of) by men. NASB.    Serving the Anointed One by walking in these kingdom realities pleases God and earns the respect of others. TPT - Simply Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! Proverbs 15:23 Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body Pr 16:24 NLT   A little leaven (yeast) leavens the whole lump. Galatians 5:9 ESV (leaven can be a good example of kindness or criticism).    (18) If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God and others will approve of you, too. NLT

Lastly, Chapter 14 and into 15 are wonderful verses to think on. I can certainly speak for myself when I say and by what I observe, Yes, we all can do better, I know I can for today.  

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus; that with one accord you may voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Romans 15:4-6 NASB 

Amen