KEEP IN STEP WITH THE SPIRIT: KINDNESS AND GOODNESS
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness…
Galatians 5:22 (NLT)
And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don't know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God's own will.
Romans 8:26-27 (NLT)
Sometimes, when I think about God, I think about how big He is. I think about how He created the heavens and the earth (Hebrews 11:3), that He holds everything in His hands (Colossians 1:16-17), and that His power is like thunder (Job 26:14). But today, I'm reminded of the personal nature of God. He's closer than I often realize. He not only commands the universe to stay in motion but also pursues me with a kindness and goodness that can only come from Him.
Today's Scripture teaches that God wants to instill that same kindness and goodness in us. We can offer these same attributes of God to the people around us (in fact, the fruit of the Spirit is mainly expressed when other people are around!). God's Spirit is at work, overcoming our weakness, praying for us, and aligning us to walk in harmony with God.
APPLICATION: One way to cultivate a heart of kindness and goodness is to focus on the needs and cares of others. Write down the names of three people and spend time praying for them throughout the day. Slow down to consider their unique life situation, then ask God to send His angels to help them. Reach out to them with the kindness and goodness of God as the Spirit fills you and leads you.
PRAYER: Father, thank You for the ways You've shown me Your kindness and goodness. Holy Spirit, I say yes to Your work in my life and pray You will reveal who You are through my life today. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?