The Fruits: Kindness

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law.

Galatians 5:22-23

Surely kindness ought to be abundant fruit in the life of the spirit, if only because every day of our lives presents us with opportunities to practice it.

The worm in the apple, er, orange is the hidden desire that our kindness be seen, be dramatic, bring us admiration. Little kindnesses, especially those in our own households, especially those that go unnoticed have no appeal. It isn't my turn to do dishes. Do I do them? Do I do them and make sure my beloved knows that I did, so he can be suitably grateful? Worse, do I do them and complain loudly? The lurking sin of pride is never of God. Kindness, especially unsung hidden kindness, is always of God and to our benefit.

Do it and to God alone be the glory. Soli Deo gloria!