While being humble and building others up, we have to be mindful that this behavior is not the norm in our culture and people may be genuinely surprised by it. When we go out of our way to show kindness (especially to people who don’t like us) and expect nothing in return, sometimes they don’t know what to make of it. Since, as believers in Christ, we are to be set apart, Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to the pattern of this world. Instead, 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).
We can’t let the reactions of others to our acts of kindness throw us off course. Our focus has to be on doing what our Father in Heaven tells us to do. Someone shows genuine appreciation? Great! Someone is skeptical and suspicious of our motives? OK! The mission to show the love of Jesus does not change. As perfectly stated in 1 Corinthians 16:14, Do everything in love.
Dear God,
Thank You for loving us. Please help us love our enemies and do good to them. Help us lend to them without expecting anything back. Help us to stay focused on doing what You have called us to do, giving You glory in all things. We love You. We trust You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
I Will Cling 