Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (NIV)

Does it seem to you, as it does to me, that kindness is in short supply these days? I am, by nature, a positive person, so it seems a little off to start with such a negative statement! I have been pondering Ephesians 4:32 for many days because I am aware that, whether in a Christian environment or a worldly one, kindness is often the exception rather than the rule. As you interact with children, parents, your own family, total strangers, fellow believers, and others in your daily life, what is your default response and general attitude toward others?

“Kindness” here portrays the idea of “gentleness in bearing with wrong” (Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers). Many struggle with kindness and a proper, Spirit-filled response, whether a wrong has been committed or not. Our lives are filled with frustrations, fatigue, confusion, improper priorities—the list goes on. We respond in the flesh far too often, not to mention our reactions when actual offenses occur. In this Scripture, which we teach to children at a young age through songs, pictures, and words, Paul challenges us to be kind even in the midst of offense. Kindness and compassion should be our go-to responses. As Christ followers, we should be the MOST polite of all people.

But you may ask, forgiveness? Yes—forgiveness! God set the perfect standard. He forgave us. Christ suffered and paid the penalty for our sins. We received that forgiveness at the moment of salvation—forgiveness that was FREELY extended to us. Conviction touches my heart as I reflect on the forgiveness I should FREELY and FULLY extend to others. No bitterness, no wallowing in old offenses, but instead, knowing the peace and happiness that result from living in obedience to our Savior’s commands. Ephesians 5:1, the very next verse, states, “Be imitators of God...” . Dear co-worker in His kingdom, is this where you find your heart today?

How is this possible? This principle runs throughout Scripture. Surely, if it is so strongly suggested and required, it must be attainable. God would not encourage us to do something we are incapable of emulating. Unbelievably, there are no exceptions to this law. But here enters GRACE!!! “Grace is able to meet EVERY demand for fulfillment” (Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges). This grace allows us to forgive “seventy times seven” and completely ignores “self.” Living lives totally consecrated to Christ and His principles enables us to offer this beautiful grace, as the Holy Spirit fills, controls, and empowers us to be “imitators of God” (Ephesians 5:1). Ephesians 5:2 reveals the greatest goal: “live a life of love.” My prayer and burden for all of us who have been redeemed is that we will declare Ephesians 4:32 as the verse that characterizes our lives.​

Karen Bishir grew up hearing about Jesus' love and forgiveness from a young age, and when she came to understand the message of salvation through faith in Christ, she embraced God’s grace and forgiveness. Raised in a pastor's home, Karen has continued to live in ministry throughout her adult life alongside her husband, Terry, who has pastored Liberty Baptist Church for 37 years. They are blessed with four married children and 14 grandchildren. Karen is deeply involved in Liberty’s music, women’s, and children’s ministries, and her passion for teaching has led her to serve in homeschool, Christian, and public school settings, as well as within the church. She treasures time with children and their families, and her heart’s desire is to see God working in lives across all generations.