Day 46 - Goodness

Goodness and kindness are related. However, if kindness is the comprehensive embrace of the gentle and gracious character of Christ Jesus, goodness is an expression of that character in beneficial actions towards others. This kind of goodness is noted for being directed toward someone that does not merit the action. Commentaries on this Galatians passage agree that the primary idea seems to be that goodness is generosity that springs from kindness.

Romans 12:9-21 is another passage of Scripture that gives Christians a set of virtues to which we can aspire. It also begins with love, and contains joy and peace, and some of the other facets of the fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23. Let’s look specifically at verses 17-21:

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay”’ says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head”’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Wow. At first reading, this is a pretty tall order. I don’t have many enemies (I don’t think…), but to think about treating an enemy with the same goodness with which I treat my friends is difficult. But it is what Christians who are led by the Holy Spirit do. It takes practice. It takes being intentional about it.

If you read articles and stories surrounding the America’s Cup race, there are many instances where goodness triumphed over evil. On March 12, 2010 the cheating allegations of the 1983 race were revisited over a quarter of a century past the trophy ceremony. People take the integrity of the race seriously! There are often people who are intent on winning at any cost. But there are just as many people to whom goodness is important-more important than compromising their integrity to win a race.

At the end of the book of Genesis, we read of the reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers. Remember Joseph? He was sold into slavery by his brothers out of jealousy. God blessed Joseph for his faithfulness and he prospered greatly. Eventually, Joseph and his family were reunited. Read Genesis 50:18-21. Notice verse 20. Joseph is speaking to his brothers and says, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children. And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.” Joseph’s character and actions toward his brothers vividly illustrates the meaning of Holy Spirit goodness “directed toward someone that does not merit the action.”

How is your active goodness?

Are you intentional about letting the Holy Spirit transform your life so that you seek out opportunities to show goodness?