And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you (Ephesians 4:32).
Kindness characterizes Deity, even toward those who care not for Him (Psalm 145:9; Luke 6:35). Kindness is a quality of love (1 Corinthians 13:10). It is a quality which must characterize God’s people (Romans 12:10). It is one of the “Christian graces” (2 Peter 1:7).
Kindness is herein qualified with the word “tenderhearted” and the phrase “forgiving one another.” “Forgiving one another” is qualified even further with the statement “even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Jesus taught forgiveness in the model prayer and in His sermon (Matthew 6:12, 14-15). Kindness, tenderheartedness and forgiveness must characterize God’s people (Colossians 3:12, 13; 1 Peter 3:8, 9).
The book Meditations Of My Heart (from which this daily devotional is taken) is available / can be ordered from Sain Publications (931-363-6905 or email psain@sainpublications.com).