By Briana Bass, Christian Romance Author, Devotional Writer & Certified Professional Coach

Several years ago, I was passed over for a promotion. The hiring manager’s feedback to me was that I was “too nice” to be a manager.

Can you believe we live in a world where being “nice” and “kind” are considered failings? Thankfully, God doesn’t see it that way. While the secular world may view kindness as weakness, in God’s Kingdom kindness is strength.

What a difference between how God wants us to live and how the world wants us to live!

His Treasured Possession

As Christians we are called to live differently than the world around us, to be separate and set apart. 1 Peter 2:9 emphasizes this unique calling: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (KJV).

How awesome is that? We are chosen, royal, and holy. We are non-conformists. We are radical. The manner of our living should reflect our faith because we are not citizens of this world. We live here temporarily but ultimately we are part of God’s Kingdom and his expectations are the antithesis to the earthly world.

In the secular world we are constantly bombarded by messages about being number one or that there is nothing more important than winning or to do whatever feels good. Excellence isn’t necessarily a bad thing. How you achieve excellence matters. The world says to step on people in order to elevate yourself; Jesus says put others first and humble yourself.

It’s a stark difference and an important one. So how are you living your life? Do you conform to this world, or does your life mark you as a Christian?

Humble and Kind

In Ephesians 4:32, the apostle Paul writes, “And be ye kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (KJV).

Kindness. Humility. Forgiveness. These aren’t just characteristics of Jesus. We, too, have the capacity to be kind, to be humble, and to forgive. It’s not always mainstream. It’s not always easy. It takes strength to be kind in the face of cruelty.

Are you starting to understand? Kindness has never been weakness. It takes a special person to be kind, and you are special!

The world may scoff. Some people will always believe the only way to achieve their goals is through harassment and violence. You and I know there is a better path.

He Gives Strength to the Weary

Being kind does not mean you are a doormat. You have every right to set healthy boundaries. You can provide constructive criticism. There is steel in you, my friend, steel that has been tempered by this world but not corroded. So if you dream of being a manager one day, I pray you will be the kindest manager your employees have ever had. Regardless of where your professional life takes you, I pray you will always be humble and kind.