Tragically, an elderly man had a fall that resulted in paralysis. Fortunately, he had a good friend who spent time caring for him. His friend fed him, cleaned him, rolled him over, and maintained his house inside and out. Many people complimented and commented on how kind the friend was. After hearing such comments several times, the good friend made this observation: “When a baby needs round-the-clock care, we find it natural, and no one comments on it. However, when an old man needs the same round-the-clock care, people find it unfortunate, tragic, and even distasteful. Why don’t we simply recognize that kindness is always appropriate, to all beings and at all times?”

That same perspective may be what writer Christian Nestell Bovee had in mind when he said, “Kindness is a language the dumb can speak, and the deaf can hear and understand.” So important is kindness in daily life that the Greek writer and philosopher Aesop stated, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” Kindness is a foundational teaching in the Bible. The word “kind” is used more than 200 times in scripture. Here are some things the Bible teaches about kindness.

Knock before entering. Almost everyone has been in an awkward or embarrassing circumstance because a family member, friend, or colleague invaded personal space without warning or permission. The simple courtesy of knocking is an act of kindness.