“Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the world’s demands, forgetting the profound wisdom of Colossians 3:12. Within this verse, we find both a problem and a solution—an invitation to embrace kindness as a way of life.
The problem is that we often encounter a world that can be harsh, critical, and self-absorbed. It’s a world that sometimes prioritizes personal gain over the well-being of others. In such an environment, it can be challenging to remain true to our faith and values, including the call to kindness.
But Paul’s solution is clear: “Put on kindness.” Just as we select our attire each day, we must intentionally choose kindness as our daily garment. Kindness isn’t merely a fleeting emotion; it’s a conscious decision to treat others with gentleness, empathy, and respect.
When you encounter someone who’s hurting, you offer a comforting word or a helping hand. When you face criticism or negativity, you respond with patience and grace. When you meet a stranger, you extend a genuine smile and a listening ear.
The solution to the problem of a harsh world is to embrace kindness as a way of life. When we do this, we live out our identity as God’s chosen ones—holy and dearly loved. Kindness becomes our language, our response, and our offering to a world in need of love and grace.
So, how can we choose to be clothed in kindness each day? It begins with a heart that desires to make a positive impact on others. Start by seeking opportunities to practice kindness, whether through simple acts of service or by offering words of encouragement. Cultivate empathy by trying to understand the perspectives and struggles of those around you. Choose to respond to negativity with love and patience.
As you put on kindness, you’ll discover the transformative power it holds. Kindness not only blesses those around you but also transforms your own heart, filling it with joy and compassion.