Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12
The world is increasingly harsh, hostile, and hateful, despite cries from people all over the globe for love, acceptance, charity, and help. While non-Christians often view Christians as mean and small-minded, there has never been a time when our influence is more necessary. We should be the standard others look to for generous and gentle role models.
The Cost of Loving Others
Paul wrote a lot about how Christians should treat their brothers and sisters in Christ. The basic gist of his words is simple: Be kind. Beginning with our fellow believers, it is up to the people of God to show the world what it means to love one another.
To treat others with kindness costs us something. It costs us time to think about our words and actions. It requires us to put ourselves in the shoes of another and listen from their viewpoint. It forces us to set aside opinions, and without judgment, to consider the feelings of others.
The admonishments of Colossians 3 aren’t always easy to follow. However, what if, instead of referring to cursing at one another, we understood this as a refusal to speak to others with a disrespectful tone and attitude, if we vowed never to negate the validity of someone else’s viewpoint even if we disagree?
Treating Others Well Requires Humility
I have struggled in a couple of close relationships over the past few years. Many hurtful things were said on both sides, and I have sought forgiveness for my wrongs. However, the others involved have never offered an apology, seeming to believe it possible to carry on as before. Never sweep difficulties under the rug as if they will be forgotten. Take it upon yourself to apologize and seek forgiveness for your actions and words.
Determine to always treat others with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love. Paul says in Philippians 2:3, “In humility consider others better than yourselves.” When was the last time you asked forgiveness for wrong attitudes, words, or actions?
There are times when we don’t know exactly how we offended. Don’t hesitate to ask. Even if you think your words and actions were correct, if it caused offense, apologize. Do whatever is in your power to make things right. Grant validity to the perceptions of the other person.
Christians Must Set the Example
In the Book of James, we are told, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” If we are to call ourselves Christians, it is important for us to do everything in our power to meet God’s standard in every way. Showing kindness and gentleness to a lost and hurting world means we must do the demanding work it takes to let Jesus shine through us.
Yes, the Holy Spirit will enable us to mirror Christ to the world, but we must continually examine ourselves to make certain it is Christ’s image and not our own that the world sees. In a hostile and unbelieving world, pray and work to reveal a winsome Jesus that people will be drawn to despite themselves.