Purposeful Faith

Acts of Kindness Matter

Acts of Kindness Matter

There is power in the unseen acts of a friend.

Not so long ago, I had been delivered soul-crushing news.
News that gave me a new revelation of the past.
News that made me wonder if I was still good, worthy and valuable.

It made me see myself in a new light. It was I-don’t-know-if-I-can-handle-it type news.

I knew God says, “They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lam. 3:23)

But, did God really have faithfulness stored in this?

It seemed this news, this turmoil, and this trouble now excluded me from His promises.

Attempting to push past feelings, I called out to God with all my heart, saying, “Come Lord. Save me in this situation. Heal me and help me.”

Shockingly, as I drove up my driveway later that morning, something caught my eye. A white as snow gift-wrapped box leaned against my garage door.

I couldn’t find a name, but when I opened it and was awe-struck with its contents. What it contained inside changed my entire perspective.

It was as if the very heart of God was delivered to me in a box. It was as if a giant hug and a note of his faithfulness was sent.

Inside lay a picture frame with the words, “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Ex. 14:14)

These words were the exact message that I needed; they healed my heart and spoke to the depths of my pain.  I was touched by God, but I was so deeply touched by the love poured out by a friend.

She had been used as an angel of God that day.
She never sought recognition or acclaim.
She had no idea of my pain, but did a nice act all the same.

What she probably doesn’t know is that this act meant all the difference. It changed my vision. 

It wasn’t about her recognition or acclaim. She had no knowledge regarding my issue – but, all the same, she offered a gesture of love. Love that was sacrificial, that took her time, that used her money, but that healed a heart.

I was brought to my knees. I was touched. I felt so loved.

I don’t know who this woman is. I may never know. But, what I do know is that God has special rewards for her in heaven. I also know that she taught me a lesson in friendship that day.

She makes me wonder:

Do I go out of my way to make small acts of love?
Do I give my time and money intentionally?
Do I see the friend who is likely hurting?
Do I shower them with advice or do I love them under the radar?

This friend inspires me to love through the power of God. Because friends are often the messengers of God’s faithfulness. I want to deliver Jesus’ messages.

Small acts of kindness do matter and love does conquers all. Friends are the best vehicles for his love, mercy and grace. They drive his truth home in our hearts.

Small acts of kindness matter; they completely transform lives.

“Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art… It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things that give value to survival.” – C.S. Lewis

“The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are.” – C.S. Lewis

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purposefulfaith

Kelly, a fun-loving, active and spunky mom of two rambunctious toddlers, spends her days pushing swings, changing diapers and pursuing the Lord with all her heart. Called a "Cheerleader of Faith", Kelly's greatest desire is to help women live passionately, purposefully and unencumbered for the Lord.

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17 CommentsLeave a comment

  • What a beautiful gift, Kelly. Makes me want to do something I’ve been thinking I should do. Glad you shared this and so glad God spoke to you right when and where you needed it most! {{hugs}}

  • Those acts of kindness can truly make all …ALL the difference in our walk. Unaware of the need, she may have been, but God knew and gifted you with just what He knew would soothe your soul. I used to send little notes to people just because God placed the thought on my heart. I think I need to get back in that place. I loved it as well.
    Caring through Christ, ~ linda

  • What a great reminder, Kelly, to step out and be intentional about following through on those promptings God gives us that allow us to be His hands and feet. I pray I remember your words as I encourage those around me. : )

  • Kelly,
    I love how this friend knew what would encourage you and delivered it right when you needed it! I love your sweet messages on Twitter and somehow it’s Tuesday evening after work and I’ve forgotten to link-up with you. I admire your enthusiasm and willingness to promote our connection with each other! 🙂

    • Valerie,
      A day late on my site is never a dollar short. You are always welcome and I am delighted to have you link up. It is an honor to read your words. Much love to you today. Thank you for your words to me.

  • Small acts that spill love and flood us with blessing… what a beautiful fact of life, and of God’s understanding that we need sometimes that extra nudge from Him that we’re still on His radar.
    Thanks for this nugget of inspiration!

  • What a great story of friendship! This reminds me of all the great friends I have in my life…I feel so lucky. I have known one of my best friends for 25 years and I’m not 30 yet. I have watched her get married and have a baby, and our connection grow deeper year after year. You have inspired me to go and tell some of the people in my life just how much I appreciate them. Blessings, Kelly.

  • What a beautiful gift to give and to recieve! I feel my heart tugging me also and I’m asking myself the same question. Do I go out of my way to make small acts of love? Thank you for making me think and hopefully for helping me to become more of a blessing to people around me!

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