Daily Devotional for Friday 9th February
Transformed by God's Kindness
In our final Bible reading of the week, Paul paints a beautiful picture of how God's kindness transforms our lives, leading us to live differently in our relationships and actions.
Paul begins by urging believers to be respectful and obedient to authorities. This sets the stage for the overarching theme of kindness that runs throughout this passage.
Paul reminds us of our past when we were not always kind. He describes a time when we were disobedient and lost, living without God's guidance. Yet, in His great kindness, God intervened. It's a bit like being rescued from a dark place by a loving friend. God's kindness becomes the turning point in our lives.
The passage reminds us that our transformation is not because of anything we did, but purely because of God's kindness and mercy. It's like receiving an unexpected and undeserved gift. Through Jesus, God saved us, washed away our wrongdoings, and renewed us with His Holy Spirit.
This renewal is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. It's like God continually working on a masterpiece – us. We become heirs of eternal life through God's kindness, and the hope of that inheritance shapes how we live each day.
Paul encourages us to be careful with our words and actions, showing kindness to everyone. It's a reminder that God's kindness extends to others through us. When we're kind, we reflect the transformative power of God's love in our lives.
So, may God’s kindness inspire us to be kind to those around us, recognising that we were once recipients of a kindness that transformed our lives forever. In each act of kindness, may we become living testimonies of God's grace and love in this at times often harsh and broken world.
Time to reflect…
• How can you show kindness and respect to those in authority, whether at school, work, or in your community? Consider practical ways to contribute positively to the places where you live and interact.
• Reflect on the kindness God has shown you in saving and renewing your life. How can you express gratitude for this kindness in your daily actions and interactions with others?
• In your words and deeds, how can you actively demonstrate God's transformative kindness to those around you? Think about specific ways to be kind and considerate, sharing the love and hope you have experienced through God's grace.
Pause to pray…
Dear God, thank You for Your kindness that changed our lives. Help us show respect and kindness to others. We're grateful for Your saving love. Guide us to be kind in our words and actions, sharing Your goodness with everyone. In Jesus' name, Amen.
