Proverbs 11:17

Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves. (NIV)

Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you. (NLT)

When you’re kind to others, you help yourself; when you’re cruel to others, you hurt yourself. (MSG)

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One of the questions we often ask in the coaching we do with leaders is, “What do you do better than ten thousand others?” We give individuals the assurance of confidentiality. We will not think or accuse them of arrogance. Each of us does something well, better in fact than ten thousand others. How about you?

These preeminent characteristics differentiate us from others. They set us apart. This is why people want to work with us or spend time with us. This is the value we add to conversations, relationships, and employers. 

When we receive answers to the question above, we are told about one important capacity or another. Not to shame anyone, and not to suggest someone name this characteristic unnecessarily, but no one has ever answered this question by saying they are kinder than ten thousand others. 

Again, this is not a fishing expedition. This is not a subtle way of saying, “Hey you, step up and tell me what I want to hear.” 

Kindness is one of the character traits we love receiving. It is also one people have a hard time demonstrating these days. This is in spite of the truth that kindness works both ways. It benefits the one who receives it and the one who gives it. If we want a kinder world, we need to lead with kindness. 

Have you ever heard anyone pray, “Our Father, I would like a kinder world, and let it begin in me?” Me neither. Until today. I’ll start. Come with me. Let’s see if we can reorient this old world.

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I will lead with kindness.

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Our Father, I would like a kinder world, and let it begin in me. Empower me to lead with kindness in all things at all times. May others grow to anticipate kindness from me in every situation. Amen.