moral compass – Three Minute Bible

a cartoon like image of two wheat stalks and a tare. One wheat stalk is in the middle, his cartoon eyes have a worried look as he glances over at the tare. The tare has a cartoon eyes and a smile with a smug look and the other wheat stalk has a cartoon eyes and smile that look peaceful and happy. (Grok)

[but set an example for the believers] … in faith…

Summary: Paul’s instruction to set an example moves from things we can observe into a realm that is both less obvious and more substantial. Faith is both invisible and very personal. For the believer, it is the foundation of our relationship with God.

It is one thing to set an example in speech and conduct: we can see that. It is another to set an example in love (agapē): we can feel that. But when we get to faith, we are talking about a different kind of thing. We can’t see or feel someone’s faith in God. All we can do is observe them over time and try to discern with our minds why they do what they do.

Picture of a direction marker against a background of stars.

…[clothe yourselves with] … kindness …

Summary: The word “kindness” can mean different things depending on who is being kind to whom. However, when it comes to godly kindness there is only one standard, and God wrote the book on it.

When you think about the word “kindness,” what examples come to mind? Do you think of something someone has done for you, or does your mind go to things you have done for others?

What kind of thing comes to mind these days? If I pay for your coffee, is that a kindness? What if I make you smile with a kind word or hold the door for you?

“Kindness” is one of those words that sounds simple and obvious, but in practice, it can be hard to pin down.

Tag: moral compass

1 Timothy 4:12e – Finding Faith

Colossians 3:12d – God’s Compass