Galatians 5:22,23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Goodness is a fruit of the Spirit. It's a byproduct of being in Christ. Here is what Psalm 53:1 says of the atheist, 'The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt, and vile in their ways; there is no one who does good.' I know that seems harsh. However, goodness comes from God.
I don't think this means unbelievers can't be nice or do nice things. Maybe the difference is in the motive. Whatever the case, all of us need the sacrifice of Jesus to make us clean. Even nice people need God's forgiveness.
How does the believer get goodness from God? Ezekiel 37:26 tells us, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." He doesn't put His goodness in our old sinful hearts, but within new hearts. Some sense the installation of the new heart, others see the fruit of it in time.
Psalm 23 says, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life". That's a promise to all in Christ who follow Him. That's His reward for our trusting Him. It could be said it's a family trait.
Part of God's blessing is to draw others to Him. He wants to bless everyone. He says we are the salt of the earth. Salt makes others thirsty, thirsty for Jesus, the giver of living water.
Goodness follows us because His plans are the best. He is the master builder and we are His workmanship. Just as many would value a Picazo, so we are valuable because we are built by heaven.
Lord, thank You for the goodness that follows us and the goodness that emanates from us. You are it's author. Thank You!