The Gift of Kindness

by | Dec 3, 2015 | hope

The Gift of Kindness

“Anyone who is gracious to the needy honors God. Proverbs 14:31 (Voice)

I pulled off the freeway and slowed down at the signal as I prepared to turn left. I glanced over at the man standing there with a sign asking for help because he was homeless. He seemed healthy enough. “I can’t stand these pan-handlers,” I thought to myself. I avoided all eye contact and reached over to lock my door. I did not feel gracious.
 
This scripture convicts me of my calloused attitude toward the needy. Somewhere along the way, the stories of those who abuse the system and take advantage of others had caused me to harden my heart toward those who are in need. We are admonished not to despise the poor because when we do we are looking down on their maker. This is a perfect time to reach out to those who are needy with the heart of our Heavenly Father and to be kind.

Hope Tools

Fill a genuine need


There are many opportunities to get involved in helping the needy during this Christmas season. Work with your family to come up with practical ways they can get involved in reaching out to others. You might be surprised if you start asking where the needs may be. Check with your church or the kids’ school.

Give expecting nothing in return


When possible be an anonymous giver. Expect nothing in return. Make the giving be for the right reasons and that is to honor God.

Provide dignity


To be gracious is to be approachable, accommodating, considerate, courteous, good-natured, hospitable, polite and loving.

Wow! This gives me a lot to think about the next time I stop at the red light and see the man (or woman) with the cardboard sign. 

 

Author, speaker, corporate trainer, ordained minister and Hope Catalyst, Karen Sebastian enjoys sharing her rich life experiences with others – engaging them in adventurous discoveries of the beauty of hope in a dark, cloudy world. To increase hope and improve relationships with yourself and those that you love, sign up to receive Karen’s emails.

 

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