Scripture
What is desirable in a man is his kindness…. Proverbs 19:22

Observation
What do people want most out of me? Is it my money, my wisdom or my good looks? Hardly. What people want most is kindness.

Kindness feels good. It is a cool drink on a hot day. It is a warm blanket on a cold night. It is a soft pillow on a hard bed. It is a firm place to stand in shaky times.

Kindness is surprising, rarely asked for, never expected but sorely needed. That is why kindness is as enjoyable to give as it is to receive.

Kindness has a cost, however. It demands that I am prepared to do what I don’t feel like doing. I may be tired, grouchy or out of sorts but kindness is acting not as people deserve but as they need.

Application
When I think of some of the kind people that I’ve known, my own kindness falls far short. I need to up the kindness delivery in my life, not just when I feel like it but when it is needed most.

Prayer
Father, make me kind and kinder than I want to be. Amen.