Today, in our Daily Devotional for June 11, let’s reflect on how we can overcome bitterness with kindness, even towards those who may not deserve it.
Daily Devotional for June 11
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” – Luke 6:35 (NIV)
Overcome Bitterness with Kindness
It can be incredibly challenging when God asks us to show kindness to someone who has hurt us. Perhaps you have spent much time blessing someone who never blesses you in return. In such cases, it’s easy to become bitter. However, God calls us to trust Him and not let bitterness take root in our hearts.
Some of us may naturally lean towards kindness more than others, but we often find it easy to be kind to those who are kind to us and challenging to extend kindness to those who don’t deserve it. Yet, true kindness is shown when given to the undeserving, reflecting the heart of God, who delights in being kind to us despite our flaws.
God’s Example of Kindness
God’s love and kindness are not based on our merit. He extends His grace and mercy to all, regardless of whether we deserve it. This unconditional kindness is a powerful example for us to follow. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies, do good to them, and lend without expecting anything in return. By doing so, we reflect the nature of our Heavenly Father.
Practical Steps to Show Kindness
- Forgive. Begin by forgiving those who have hurt you. Holding onto bitterness only harms you and prevents you from experiencing God’s peace.
- Pray. Pray for those who have wronged you. Ask God to bless them and to help you see them through His eyes.
- Act. Look for opportunities to show kindness, even in small ways. A kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or an act of service can make a significant impact.
- Trust. Trust that God sees your efforts and will reward your kindness. He is faithful and just, and He will honor your obedience.
End Your Day with Kindness
Make it a habit to end your day by being kind to someone. This practice not only helps to dispel bitterness but also brings joy and fulfillment. By choosing kindness, you allow God’s love to flow through you, touching the lives of others and transforming your own heart.
Devotional for every day here: Daily Devotional
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unconditional kindness and love. Please help us to overcome bitterness by extending kindness to those who have hurt us. Teach us to love our enemies and to do good without expecting anything in return. May our actions reflect Your heart and bring glory to Your name. Strengthen us to trust in Your justice and to find joy in showing kindness. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
To You
Reflect on someone who has hurt you. How can you extend kindness to them today? What steps can you take to overcome any lingering bitterness?
Today, remember the power of kindness. Choose to reflect God’s love and kindness, even towards the undeserving, and experience the freedom from overcoming bitterness. Amen.
