Love and Kindness Breaks Down Barriers – (Proverbs 18:16)

Daily Bible Study
Here again, the Bible is giving us practical wisdom for everyday life. The word for gift used in this passage does not mean a bribe, rather it refers to our love for others and one's abilities and talents. This passage is not speaking of using gifts to gain favor, rather, it's speaking about our outward expression of love for others. About how our love for each other should find its expression in our everyday acts of kindness toward one another. The word "gift" used in this passage refers to any act of kindness given to another person as an expression of our genuine concern for their well being. This could be a thoughtful gift, charity given during a time of need, and act of kindness, or help with a chore. In other words, anything that fulfills a need and shows the love we have for others. Moreover, it's important to remember that this is also part of our calling as children of God, why? Because we are joint-heirs with Christ in the kingdom of God, and because of this special privilege it is our joy to share the love of God with others. Because of our love for Jesus, and the change in us carried out by the Holy Spirit's work in our minds and hearts, we desire to help others.

We are called to use our time, talents and resources to support our families, help those in need, show kindness to others and to spread the Gospel to a dark and dying world. This is what the Apostle Matthew was referring to when, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he told us that all Christians are " a light on a hill, shining for all the world. A light located on a hill cannot be hidden." And because we are children of God, it's this type of love, where we humble ourselves and place the needs of others before our own, that breaks down barriers and brings us before great men. And the expression, "before great men" does not refer to gaining fame for our act of kindness, rather it means this type of behavior in itself, displays the heart of what greatness is truly all about. And because of it, we will garner for ourselves a reputation of doing good that is known by all, even those, who by human standards are considered great. In other words, this passage is speaking about our character and how it's developed and matured through our faith, love for others, study of God's word and our submission to the Holy Spirit's guidance in our lives. Moreover, such character is not only noticed by others, but is recognized by those in authority. God brings grace to the humble who through faith submit to His guidance.