Are kindness and compassion signs of weakness? (82-5)

Kindness and compassion are looked at by some in society as signs of weakness in a leader. Truly effective leaders can hardly function without them. Read Ruth 2:4-17.

Boaz was a wealthy, influential landowner and farmer from Bethlehem. He was a respected leader in his community. Did you notice that the first words out of his mouth when Boaz came out to check on the progress of the harvesters were “The Lord be with you”? He gave a blessing to his workers and they enthusiastically called back “The Lord bless you.” From their response they knew something about this man, his relationship with God and how he treated people.

We see Boaz’s kindness and compassion a second time in how he treated Ruth. When he heard the story of this poor widow, he showed her great kindness – even to the point of affording her special protection from the men in his field and special permission to gather grain with his servants. He also gave her water and later invited her to lunch. Boaz’s actions showed that kindness and compassion were deeply held core beliefs.

Boaz models the sort of kindness required in all godly leaders. God-honoring leaders will strive to develop a kind, compassionate nature.

Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”