Why Kindness at Work Matters: A Biblical Lesson From Abraham

Don’t be lost in your own world and challenges. Lift your head to see people and be caring.

Hebrews 13:2 (KJV)

“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”

This scripture references Genesis 18:1-8, an account of how Abraham showed hospitality to strangers.

Abraham was not looking for an opportunity that day. He was simply at the entrance of his tent thinking about "Trump’s New Immigration rules", may be. Or perhaps pondering the last medical report from Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Suddenly, he noticed three weary travelers. Instead of ignoring them or assuming someone else would help, he rose, welcomed them warmly, washed their feet, offered them a place to rest, and prepared a generous meal.

What appeared to be an ordinary act of hospitality became an extraordinary encounter with God. I have learned over the years that there are no casual work day. Every day is significant and any day can be your encounter with your own angels at work.

Our workplaces are much the same. Every day, people pass through our offices, factories, schools, hospitals, and project sites. Some are clients, contractors, vendors, interview candidates, auditors, visitors, interns, or new employees. Most will be with us only briefly. Because they are “just passing through,” we may be tempted to treat them as interruptions rather than people worthy of dignity and care.

The lesson from Abraham is different and huge!

The people who pass through your workplace today may never remember your job title, but they will remember how you made them feel. A warm greeting, patient guidance, a helpful explanation, a glass of water, prompt attention, or genuine respect can leave a lasting impression that outlives your interaction.

Professionally, such kindness builds trust, strengthens your organization’s reputation, and reflects a culture of excellence. Spiritually, it reminds us that every person bears God’s image, and some encounters may carry significance we cannot yet see.

God often entrusts greater opportunities to those who faithfully handle ordinary moments. Abraham’s hospitality was followed by one of the greatest promises of his life. While we should never serve people merely to receive a reward, Scripture consistently shows that God notices faithful acts of kindness and honors hearts that willingly serve others.

Beloved, look beyond your task list today. See the people God places in your path. Treat every visitor, customer, colleague, and stranger with dignity. Your next ordinary interaction may become an extraordinary testimony, trust me.

Receive grace to be sensitive!

Your Brother,

David Kay-Akeremale.