Values of the Incredible Family
Kindness

Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 1:3-7

Key Verse: Galatians 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness

Any doorframe list of values certainly would include kindness in our homes and daily lives.  There is but one Greek word for the English translation of brotherly kindness: Philadelphia.  In the New Testament this is the word used to describe how Christians should treat each other: with brotherly kindness.

            This brotherly kindness term starts with a family word “brotherly.”  In other words, this phrase assumes the home is a place where deep kindness is shown.  The Bible challenges us to treat everyone throughout our day with this same kindness.  We must ask ourselves if that kindness is truly being shown in our homes.  Is there brotherly or family kindness going on in a consistent way?

            Before all of us go on a road trip called guilt, let’s remember that all families have days when kindness is not practiced as it should be, but this value should be a major goal for each member of the family.  To help us reach it, we make it a doorframe value.  We remind ourselves every day that kindness is a priority.  When we discipline our children, do it kindly.  When we get frustrated with our spouse, we need to take a deep breath and deal with the issue kindly.  Kindness can flourish in the midst of dealing with daily struggles.  God wants to help us!

Father, I am determined to be kind today in all my relationships.  As I deal with frustrating problems, please remind me to do it kindly!  In Jesus’ name, amen.