There are slightly different interpretations of this phrase, but the general idea is that it is better to respond to hostility with kindness rather than retaliation. Certainly, our world would have experienced a lot less violent tragedy had more people adopted the “kill them with kindness” way of dealing with conflict.
The challenge of demonstrating kindness in the face of animosity is that very often the belligerent person isn’t affected by charitable responses. Instead, they become even more hurtful.
One of the essential characteristics of the Christian is kindness. And Jesus says it is a kindness meant not only for people who respond favorably but also for our enemies. A critical difference between the “kill them with kindness” philosophy and the kindness Christians are to practice is in the intent. Killing a hateful person with kindness has the objective of changing that person into a loving individual. If that doesn’t happen, all the kindness shown to them has been for nothing. The kindness Jesus calls his followers to practice has a much different motivation. We’re not asked to change anybody with our kindness. We’re simply told to be kind irrespective of the person because of Jesus Christ’s kindness to us through his crucifixion and resurrection. He tells us to leave changing people with him. Just concentrate on the kindness.
Sound pretty idealistic? Actually it’s totally practical. Changing another human being is definitely above our pay grade. That’s a God thing and that’s exactly who Jesus Christ is. For all he’s done for us, we have motivation for a long, long time to be kind to other people. And in the process, we have the privilege to be a part of how he is using our kindness to change peoples’ lives forever.
Have you been praying lately for a more kindly attitude toward other people? It is one of those prayer requests you can be sure God will answer with a resounding “YES!”
Sunday Morning Worship: 10:00 am