“Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads toward repentance?”

Romans 2:4
Can you recall a time when you hurt someone with your unkind words? You wish you could take back what you said, but you can’t. You’d like to act as if it never happened. But much work, grace, and forgiveness will be required to re-establish beauty in that relationship.
Being kind draws people closer to the cross. Being unkind may send them dashing as quickly as possible from it. Paul reminds us that it is the kindness of Jesus that leads us to repentance. It was not harsh, condemning words that brought us to Jesus in contriteness. It was His kindness (“Take heart, daughter”—Matthew 9:22), His tolerance (“I have come to seek and save the lost”—Luke 19:10), and His patience (“Come to me… and I will give you rest”—Matthew 11:28). If the kindness of Jesus has led us to repentance, our kindness to others will speak a good word, too.
I enjoy watching how my son always looks out for the “underdog.” Our Savior has more than looked out for us—He died for us, true underdogs burdened with sin until His kindness won us over.



Scripture Focus

Colossians 3:12-14

Insight

Jesus, your kindness draws me near to You. Thank You for bringing me into Your compassionate arms even when I have not shown kindness to others. Amen.

Bible In A Year

  • Hosea 4-6
  • Proverbs 12
  • James 4-5

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