The Kindness Jar

My little guys seem to be struggling with kindness towards one another. In a house of four boys, conflict can creep in often. We are constantly talking to them about the words they speak. We ask them often "Are you building your brother up, or are you tearing him down." or "Were your words helpful or hurtful?" One other area that we are trying to get them to take note of is the "tone" of their words. We encourage them to speak "gently" to one another. Even in the car this morning an incident presented itself and I started preaching/instructing away. I encouraged them to "respond" to one another and not "react". These are all very difficult and challenging concepts even for an adult!! I find myself daily asking the Lord to help me put on kindness and gentleness. I ask Him to help me to respond and not react. I am encouraging the boys to do the same.

So here is my little idea that I got last night while I was washing the dishes! This is going to be "Kindness Week". I am going to have a "KINDNESS JAR". Whenever I see them being kind to each other, I am going to put a marble in the jar. Once the jar is full, they will all get a special treat or reward. If this works well, I may continue it. Wish me luck.