Have you ever been the recipient of an act of kindness at a pivotal time? Maybe you are really struggling with something, and you receive a text out of the blue from someone who states that God laid you on their heart and they are praying for you. Maybe a surprise gift lands on your desk at work on a day that you really needed a pick-me-up. There have been moments in my life where a timely word or gift has made all the difference.
I can also remember distinct times where God laid someone on my heart to reach out to them with a word of encouragement. In the times that I have, it nearly always seems to be a time when they needed it greatly. And, unfortunately, there have been times when I have known that I needed to reach out with encouragement or send a gift and have not been obedient. Sometimes I have found out later that the person was going through a situation on the exact date that I felt compelled to reach out and I missed my opportunity for kindness.
Kindness is often portrayed as something gentle and optional—something we offer when it’s convenient or when we feel emotionally ready. But Proverbs 3 challenges that idea. These verses remind us that kindness is not merely a feeling; it is an action, and often an immediate one.
“Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it’s in your power to help them. If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say, ‘Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.’” Proverbs 3:27-28
God’s wisdom makes it clear: when we have the ability to do good, we are responsible for acting on it. Delayed kindness can become denied kindness. A word of encouragement held back, help postponed, generosity deferred—these moments matter more than we realize. What feels like “tomorrow” to us may feel like abandonment to someone else.
Sometimes we hesitate because we are tired, distracted, or unsure if our effort will really make a difference. Other times we delay kindness because of pride, fear, or unresolved feelings toward the person in need. Yet Scripture gently presses us to look beyond ourselves. Kindness reflects God’s own character—He is quick to love and generous without delay.
This passage also invites us to examine what God has already placed “in our hands.” Time, resources, encouragement, compassion—these are not accidental. They are opportunities. God entrusts us with blessings not only for our own comfort, but so we can become a path of His goodness to others.
Choosing kindness today may be inconvenient, but it is never wasted. When we act promptly and generously, we mirror the heart of a God who never withholds good from His children. What good do you already have in your hands that you could offer now, instead of later?
Who has God laid on your heart that you need to reach out to with a word of encouragement?
This devotional was written by Amy Carrico.
Last Updated on February 20, 2026
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