Love is Kind

The word translated as “kind” in this text is the Greek word “chrēsteuomai,” which means “to show one’s self mild, to be kind, use kindness.” The odd thing about this word is that this is the only time that it is used in the entire Bible. Every other time that you see the word kind or kindness, it stems from a word that refers to an act of kindness, doing something good, or showing integrity. When it says in first Corinthians that “love is kind,” it is not saying that love means doing good things for everybody. Sure, an act of generosity is a way of showing kindness, but the kindness mentioned here is a behavioral kindness.

“To show one’s self mild”

In Proverbs 15:1 it states, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” I believe that this is the type of kindness that we are to adopt. As Christians, we are to be meek, mild, and humble when it comes to the way we treat others. Have you ever known someone who would purposefully say or do things with the intention to rile you up? When you react poorly, they are pleased because they know that, as Christians, we are suppose to be better than that. If they know this, why don’t we?

So, the next time you feel like acting up when someone offends you or the cashier forgets to discount your item, stop to think about what you are doing. Remember that love is kind, God is kind, and therefore we ought to be as well.

“To show one’s self mild” – It’s the 1 Corinthians 13 way.