Intentional Kindness

Dale Carnegie, a well-known author, and motivational speaker once said, 

“Perhaps you will forget tomorrow the kind words you say today, but the recipient may cherish them over a lifetime.” 

What does it cost us to be kind to someone? To ask the barista making your coffee how their day is going, or the guy bagging your groceries if he is doing well?

The Bible is clear that our words can have great impact on those around us, either positively or negatively.

Proverbs 16:24 says, 

24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb,
    sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

And then in Proverbs 12:25 the author says, 

Anxiety weighs down the heart,
    but a kind word cheers it up.

Our words can make a difference – they hold the power to encourage and bring life to those we speak to. That’s why throughout the New Testament, the authors of Scripture are often reminding us as believers to be intentional in using our words to lift up those around us. 

Take Paul, writing to the Thessalonian church in 1 Thessalonians 5:11:

11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.

Or the author of Hebrews in chapter 10:24-25:

24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Or Paul again in Romans 14:19:

19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

Notice that these authors give reminders to be intentional with our encouragement, Hebrews says “Let us consider how to stir up one another…” Paul says, “let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” 

With all the tragedy, heartache, hopelessness, and brokenness in this sin-wrecked world around us, the New Testament authors are challenging us to thoughtfully engage those around us with kindness and encouragement. We are to be aware of needs, and sensitive to the Spirit’s promptings as we go about our day.

Our words matter. And a kind word, spoken at the right moment can make all the difference in someone’s life. 

So here is my challenge: intentionally speak encouragement and life into one person every day this week. Anybody reading this can take on this challenge and thrive. It won’t cost you anything, and there are plenty of people in need of your kindness.

Thoughtfully go about each day during this next week, and ask the Lord whom you can encourage.  

Who knows, you might even be encouraged, as you do!

Blessings, 

Pastor Dave

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