1579) There is a lot of clickbait out there and those who are successful at grabbing your attention, even for a moment, know how to write a headline that intrigues you. I have attempted this with the title of this minute.

There are three things that can change the world and, yes, it’s a simple as that but oh so hard at the same time. We find them in Ephesians 4:32. The three things are kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness. Let’s look at each one a moment.

Kindness. This word in the Greek is chréstos and can be translated as useful, gentle and pleasant. Have you ever met someone who displays these traits? I have, and I’ve noticed these people have a calming effect on others.

Tenderheartedness. The Greek word used here is eusplagchnos which means compassionate from the visceral organs or the bowels. It’s showing others a deeply rooted compassion. This type of compassion cannot be faked; therefore, it’s valuable.

Forgiveness. The Greek word used here is charizomai. It means that you pardon someone. A pardon is not an act that states the guilty are no longer guilty. Instead, a pardon just removes that penalty; you make the choice not to hold the “wrong” over their heads. You hand someone a clean slate in the relationship with you. (Just in case the thought has popped in your head, this pardon doesn’t mean we need to pursue a relationship with this person. Healthy boundaries are important.)

What if we all make the choice to be gentle and kind? How about if we are deeply compassionate and tenderhearted? Finally, what if we let go of the penalty someone should have to pay and choose to forgive instead? I think it would change the world.

Can you make the choice to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving? It’s up to you.