Receiving and cultivating.
The Fruit of Kindness:
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." 1 Corinthians 13:4
The word used for kindness in Greek is crestotes. It means also useful; profitable, by nature mellowed out.
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32
Jesus never turned people away. His kindness was/is real.
Goodness:
goodness in disposition and character...character is who you are when no one else is around.
Goodness in and out. Our goodness should be reflected in our actions.
"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." Galatians 6:10
"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21
One person can change the tone of a room.
Faithfulness:
God is faithful. You can change the world with faithfulness.
"Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies." Psalm 36:5
"But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3
Share God's faithfulness.
"But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you." 1 Samuel 12:24
Gentleness:
Nothing is as gentle as true strength.
"You make your saving help my shield,
and your right hand sustains me;
your help has made me great." Psalm 18:35
"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:29
Self-Control:
"The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray." 1 Peter 4:7
"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7
Our God is greater than all...Self-control is intentional.
Our tongue -- our filter must be Christ. Takes practice. Clothe yourself in and out with Christ.
"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Colossians 3:12-15
Be intentional.