
Kindness is one of the fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23, and it should be evident in our lives as Christian parents. Sin and our own weaknesses can make this a challenge, but that’s why we always need the same gospel we preach to our kids!
The farmer’s experience is one that every family may struggle with from time to time, because it’s in our human nature to focus on self, self, and more self. Selfishness and pride are the antitheses of kindness, begging us to think, “What about me?” Knowing that this struggle is inevitable, a good game plan is an important part of Christian parenting.
Here are three ways to put kindness into action:
1. Celebrate acts of kindness in your home.
What you celebrate gets repeated. When children see and hear excitement and affirmation for their acts of kindness, this shows them what you value. Here are some practical ways to celebrate and affirm that you value kindness in your home:
• Praise your children publicly for their acts of kindness.
• Praise your children when they notice others doing acts of kindness.
• Mention kindness in your family prayers: “Jesus, help us to show kindness. . .”
• Randomly reward your children for their acts of kindness. This will encourage your children without promoting pride and expectations.
2. Make acts of kindness part of your weekly routine.
Every family can structure this in their own way, but putting kindness into action will take proactive planning. Here are some ideas to get your kids started. Add to these!
• Choose a day of the week to serve someone in need.
• Get involved with a local homeless shelter or rescue mission.
• Meet needs of those in your church.
• Take a meal to someone who is sick or who just had a baby.
• Visit someone in the hospital who needs encouragement.
• Rake up your neighbor’s leaves.
• Write a kind note to a friend or family member, or draw a picture (even children who can’t yet write can do this).
3. As a family, memorize Scriptures about kindness.
Memorizing Scripture is one of the best ways to fill our children with truths that will change their lives. Psalm 119:11 says, “I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Here are some passages to memorize as a family. Choose your favorite version, and consider writing them one at a time in a prominent place, like on a chalkboard or other type of display in your home. When you have one memorized, write a new verse to work on together:
• Ephesians 4:32 is about how we should treat other Christians.
• Luke 6:35 says to be kind even to our enemies.
• Proverbs 11:17 shows how kindness blesses us and others.
• Colossians 3:12 calls us to always live out kindness.
• Proverbs 19:17 encourages kindness to the poor.
• Proverbs 3:28 says don’t wait to give others what they need.
A lifestyle of kindness will drive you to the limits of your comfort zone—and beyond. This will naturally bring up feelings of resistance in your own heart and in the hearts of your kids. Give it time, be patient with the process, and stay committed! Don’t be surprised if you encounter some spiritual warfare along the way. Always remember: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).
For God’s glory and your good,
Costi & Christyne Hinn
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The Farmer Who Chose to Plant Kindness, by Costi and Christyne Hinn, teaches kids the consequences of selfishness and how genuine, Christlike kindness can be contagious.
Hadley the farmer is the nicest guy in the land of Thad. He’s always helping his neighbors or giving to the poor, until one day a seed of selfishness takes root in Hadley’s heart. Suddenly, the once-friendly farmer turns fiendish—and to make things worse, his sinful attitude is “reaping” havoc all over town. Can a chance encounter with one of Thad’s littlest residents help restore the farmer’s kindness?
Based on teachings from the book of Ephesians, this book helps children see how their choices and attitudes influence others, what to do when they sin, and most important, how to sow kindness wherever they go.
Find out more and how to purchase here.
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