The Key Difference Between Kindness and Goodness
What if being described as kind isn't as much of a compliment as you think?
Mother Theresa once said:
“Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.”
Reasonable individuals admire those who embody gentleness, caring, consideration, helpfulness, and patience. Many aspire to be recognized for qualities that define them as kind-hearted.
A kind person values fairness and equality, even when it involves enduring hardship. When necessary, they administer firm discipline with compassion.
Kindness communicates truth without judgment or shame toward others.
Kind-hearted individuals are forgiving.
Kindness describes the character of a person.
When we're around unkind people, we often dislike the character they show.
Kindness requires minimal effort. A simple smile or small action can mask hidden motives.
With kindness, we can display qualities we don't genuinely possess.
True leaders are not defined by their kindness but by their goodness.
Why?
Goodness describes the actions of a person.
Goodness is an action that stems from kindness. While kindness offers the bare minimum, goodness goes above and beyond, regardless of the circumstances.
Good people take initiative. Kind people respond to situations.
True leaders don't just stop at kindness; they take action.
Goodness arises from being connected to the Vine.
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
John 15:1-8 (ESV)
The Greek word for goodness is Agathosune, which means to do good (action).
The Greek word for kindness is Chréstotés, which means goodness, gentleness, kindness, preluding we are meant to move into goodness (action).
Our goal is not just to be kind, it’s to be good.
Our goal is not to just look like a loving person, we should be compelled to be empowered by love in our actions toward others.