God Sees (Even If It Seems Like No One Else Does)

It’s an understatement that there’s a lot of division in the world. From politics to parenting and pretty much everything in between, people disagree about so many things. Somewhere in those differences & disagreements, kindness is lost. As Christians, we have the high calling to be kind, especially when faced with differences. Ephesians 4:32 says, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Kindness is a reflection of the love and grace we have received from God. When we choose kindness, we acknowledge that everyone, even those we don’t agree with, deserve compassion. Intentional words & acts of kindness share the love of Jesus even when we disagree.  

Jesus exemplified this kindness throughout His ministry. In Luke 6:31, He teaches us the Golden Rule: "Do to others as you would have them do to you." This principle encourages us to put ourselves in others' shoes, recognizing their struggles and being empathetic to their circumstances. When we practice kindness, we cultivate an environment where differences don't equal hate. Kindness can transform our interactions, allowing us to build meaningful conversations & relationships that reflect the heart of Christ. 

Does kindness mean that we tolerate or excuse things that are wrong? No. First Corinthians 5:6 says, “Boasting over your tolerance of sin is inappropriate. Don’t you understand that even a small compromise with sin permeates the entire fellowship, just as a little leaven permeates a batch of dough?" Kindness & truth isn’t always going to well-received. In those instances, followers of Jesus were told in Matthew 10:14, “If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave.”   

As we strive to be kind despite our differences, let's also remember the words of Colossians 3:12-14, where we're called to "clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." These virtues are essential in nurturing a community that honors God and reflects His love. It's not always easy to choose kindness. Does everyone deserve it? No. But neither do we. Still, God is kind to us. “The Lord is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His works.” (Psalm 145:17) No act or word of kindness, no matter how small, is ever a waste of our time, effort or breath. God sees, even if it seems like no one else does.