Redefining “Good”

Too often, we conflate “niceness” and “kindness” and “goodness” as synonyms of the same attribute. These three traits are decidedly different, and misappropriating their function can cause confusion. 

“Niceness” seeks social approval with a pleasant external appearance. “Kindness” is a fruit of the Spirit, and seeks to genuinely honor what is the highest benefit in any given situation.

“Goodness”, also a fruit of the Spirit, is a core attribute of who God is. Goodness is not defined by culture, comfort or personal measures of value. It is vibrant, proactive, sacrificial and Spirit-led. Goodness takes into account the abundance of God over the scarcity of circumstances. 

In Mark 10:18, Jesus emphasizes, "No one is good—except God alone," highlighting that human goodness is imperfect compared to God's. Culture doesn't celebrate goodness as much as it does niceness and kindness; understand that true goodness is often naturally divisive. Choose goodness anyway.

Written by Christy Bradley