22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:22-26

1. KIND PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHERE KINDNESS COMES FROM 

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, Titus 3:4-5

• God showed us kindness first - we don't earn it, we receive it

• Application: You can only give what you've received

• Practical: Start each day remembering how God has been kind to you. Explain how you pray/meditate on the fruit of the Spirit

2. KIND PEOPLE CHOOSE TO BE KIND EVEN WHEN IT'S HARD 

But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Luke 6:35

• Real kindness costs something - time, energy, pride, money

• It's easy to be kind to kind people; Jesus calls us to more

• Application: Kindness is a choice, not a feeling

• Practical: This week, show kindness to someone who's been difficult

Kindness is love in work clothes."

The Point: The businessman had knowledge, success, and resources. But the custodian had something more powerful - a heart transformed by God's kindness. His kindness wasn't just polite behavior; it was the overflow of someone who had experienced grace.

The Application: True kindness doesn't depend on your circumstances, your status, or how others treat you. It flows from understanding how lavishly God has treated you. When you've been forgiven much, you can't help but show mercy to others.

"We love because he first loved us" 1 John 4:19 . Our kindness is simply a reflection of the kindness we've received from God.

"As we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..."

• Opportunities are everywhere when you have "kind eyes."

• Small acts create a big impact

• Application: Be intentionally aware of the needs around you

• Practical: CONEXPO Sign Up! Relationships and Responsibilities

• Marriage Kindness Challenge

Gospel Turn:

4. GOD’S KINDNESS ALWAYS LEADS US HOME TO HIM

Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? Romans 2:4

3. KIND PEOPLE LOOK FOR OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE 7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:7-10