The spiritual fruit of KINDNESS

KINDNESS – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)

Jesus promises that if you abide (remain) in Him you will produce this kind of spiritual fruit as a direct result. (John 15:4)

Kindness is the fifth of the nine fruits of the spirit listed in this passage. Each one is a promise!

Kindness defined

Kindness is the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.

synonyms: kindheartedness, warm-heartedness, affection, warmth, gentleness, concern, care; consideration, helpfulness, thoughtfulness, unselfishness, selflessness, compassion, sympathy, understanding, bigheartedness, benevolence, friendliness, hospitality.

Divine Kindness: God’s kindness is found throughout Scripture. It is manifest in what is called “common grace.” God is kind to all he has made (Psalm 145:9), even when they are ungrateful and wicked (Luke 6:35; cf. Matt 5:4). His kindness is intended to lead to repentance, not to rejection of him (Rom 2:4). God’s kindness is manifest in the full salvation that comes through Christ (1 Peter 2:3). Our salvation comes from the kindness of God (Eph. 2:7-8), and it is through continuing in his kindness that we are saved (Rom 11:22).

Two scripture verses about kindness

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Col. 3:12 NIV)

“In order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.” (Eph. 2:7 NIV)