Chesed
Chesed is a Hebrew word that is sometimes translated into our English word kindness. Often it speaks about the character and nature of our Creator God. In some passages, it describes how people treat each other…how those who are poor or disadvantaged are treated by those who are not impoverished or in some reduced circumstance. “The LORD is slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness…” (Numbers 14:18 NASB) “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your Gid.” (Micah 6:8 NASB) “What is desirable in a man is his kindness…” (Proverbs 19:22 NASB) In 1 Samuel 20, the story is told of King Saul’s son Jonathan and David, the future king of Israel. The narrative is not difficult to read. Jonathan and David were good friends. Jonathan recognized the shortcomings of his father, but he also acknowledged the call of God on David’s life. David would be Israel’s king. When the throne changed, it w