In Christ, I Am Friendly: Embracing the Spirit of Kindness

This month we are we are looking at ways to be friendly.

It seems like it is getting harder and harder to just get along with other people. This makes the call to be friendly and kind more important than ever. Anger and hatred are too prevalent in our society right now, which goes contrary to everything that Christ teaches us in the Bible. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”  James 1:19 says, “This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.”  When we are in Christ, we are encouraged to reflect His love and grace in our interactions with others. The phrase "In Christ, I am Friendly" encapsulates a vital aspect of the Christian walk - the commitment to embody the spirit of friendliness and warmth, drawing inspiration from our relationship with Jesus.

Friendliness is not merely about being polite or saying hello; it is a deeper expression of love, compassion, and understanding. When we say, "In Christ, I am Friendly," we acknowledge that our ability to be truly friendly comes from our connection with Him. The Bible teaches us that Jesus exemplified perfect friendliness - He reached out to the marginalized, engaged with those who were different, and showed kindness to everyone He encountered.

The Biblical Basis for Friendliness

1. The Example of Jesus: Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus embracing those around Him with open arms. Whether it was the tax collectors, the sick, or the sinners, He treated everyone with dignity and respect. As His followers, we are called to do the same.
2. Scripture Encouragement: Verses like Proverbs 18:24 remind us that "a man who has friends must himself be friendly." This is a beautiful reminder that friendliness is not just a one-way street; it involves actively reaching out, engaging, and building relationships.
3. The Power of Kindness: Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to "be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Kindness is a reflection of Christ's love for us and serves as a powerful tool to bridge gaps between individuals and communities.

Practical Ways to Be Friendly

1. Smile and Greet Others: A simple smile can go a long way. When you greet someone warmly, you create an inviting atmosphere that encourages connection.
2. Listen Actively: Friendliness involves being present in conversations. Show genuine interest in what others have to say, and listen without interrupting.
3. Offer Help: Last month we looked at how we are to be helpful to those around us. We see that helping people shows friendliness. Look for opportunities to lend a hand, whether it’s assisting a colleague, helping a neighbor, or volunteering in your community. Acts of service are powerful expressions of friendliness.
4. Practice Empathy: Try to understand things from others' perspectives. Empathy fosters connection and builds trust, allowing friendships to flourish.
5. Encourage Others: Take the time to uplift and encourage those around you. A kind word or compliment can brighten someone’s day.

When we embody friendliness, we not only enrich our own lives but also the lives of those around us. Being friendly creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to reciprocate kindness. In a world that can often feel cold and unwelcoming, our friendliness can be a beacon of hope and love.

As we strive to live out the principle of "In Christ, I am Friendly," let us remember that our friendliness is a reflection of the love that God has shown us. By embracing this spirit, we can create a community that mirrors Christ's love and grace. Let us commit to being the hands and feet of Jesus in our everyday interactions, spreading warmth and kindness wherever we go. Together, we can make a difference, one friendly act at a time.