04/28/2026
This is what I shared with juveniles weekend of april 24-26
What does it mean being nice to each other?
Definition and Importance: Being nice, in a biblical context, refers to exhibiting kindness, gentleness, and a considerate nature towards others. It is an expression of love and compassion, reflecting the character of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Bible emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, as it is a manifestation of the love that believers are called to demonstrate.
Biblical Foundations: The concept of being nice is deeply rooted in the Scriptures, where kindness and love are central themes. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "chesed" often translated as "lovingkindness" or "mercy," underscores the importance of a benevolent and compassionate attitude. In the New Testament, the Greek word "chrēstotēs" is used to describe kindness, a fruit of the Spirit.
Key Scriptures:
1. Ephesians 4:32: "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." This verse highlights the call for believers to be kind and forgiving, mirroring the forgiveness they have received through Christ.
2. Colossians 3:12: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Here, kindness is listed among the virtues that Christians are encouraged to embody, reflecting their identity as God's chosen people.
3. Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Kindness is identified as a fruit of the Spirit, indicating that it is a natural outcome of a life led by the Holy Spirit.
4. Proverbs 11:17: "A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself." This proverb suggests that kindness not only benefits others but also brings blessings to the one who practices it.
5. Luke 6:35: "But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." Jesus teaches that kindness should extend even to one's enemies, reflecting the character of God who is kind to all.
Theological Significance: Being nice is not merely a social nicety but a theological imperative. It is an expression of the love of God, who is described as kind and merciful. Believers are called to imitate God's character, and being nice is a tangible way to demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel in one's life.
Practical Application: Christians are encouraged to practice kindness in their daily interactions, whether in family, community, or workplace settings. This involves active listening, offering help, speaking gently, and showing empathy. By doing so, they bear witness to the love of Christ and create opportunities for the Gospel to be shared.
Challenges and Misunderstandings: While being nice is a biblical virtue, it is important to distinguish it from mere people-pleasing or avoiding conflict at all costs. True kindness sometimes involves speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and standing firm in one's convictions while maintaining a gentle and respectful demeanor.
Conclusion: The Bible presents being nice as an essential aspect of Christian living, rooted in the character of God and the teachings of Jesus. It is a reflection of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, calling them to love and serve others with a heart of compassion and kindness.
Being kind is about showing up as your true self and inviting others to come as they are, too. It is meeting yourself and
others with compassion and understanding in the present moment. Each of us can be why someone believes there are
good people in this world.
So, kindness might not make the world go 'round (we have momentum and gravity to thank for that),
but kindness does certainly make the world a better place.
Think about the power that a kind gesture, a kind hand, a kind word, or a listening ear can have on someone in a moment when they feel like their world is crumbling. Think about the way that it can make an already-good day that much better. Now think about the positive impact on the giver’s physical and mental health. The power of kindness is remarkable.
We may never know just how big of an impact our small acts of kindness have on someone else. But we know that kind humans doing kind things are exactly what this unwell world needs more of.
Although it may not be your first time hearing this one, I will leave you with this final ask:
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” —Unknown
Send a message to learn more
