Did you know that gentleness isn’t weakness – rather, it is a result of spiritual development and represents strength?
Yes, many would assume that being gentle means being passive or powerless. Yet this couldn’t be further from the truth; gentleness is actually an extremely effective means of making an impactful statement about God to those around us and is an essential characteristic for believers of Christ. Therefore it is crucial that Christians develop this noble character of strength and tenderness so as to represent Jesus with humility in the world as they invite others to experience His meekness for themselves.
Gentleness is of particular value because it enables us to interact with others in ways that please God.
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, and patience, forbearing one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
– Colossians 3:12-13
God has instructed each of us to show kindness towards one another, allowing the Holy Spirit to work within our lives so that our lives may please Him.
Now let us explore why bearing this fruit is essential. Jesus served as an excellent model of gentleness.
Matthew 11:29 offers this advice:
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Jesus set an example for us all by acting with kindness and gentleness when dealing with others, even those who opposed him. Rather than seeking revenge or revengeful responses, He responded instead with love and forgiveness – therefore if we are connected to him as true vines, then this essential characteristic should also become part of our character traits.
Gentleness fosters unity and harmony within relationships. By responding with kindness instead of aggression, we can manage conflicts more efficiently while also preventing unnecessary offense.
Proverbs 15:1 says
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Gentleness allows us to speak the truth in love without creating harm or division, so let us all be mindful when speaking to children, families, friends, neighbors, or strangers.
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
– Philippians 4:5
As we live in an increasingly assertive culture, gentleness stands out as an attractive quality that is distinct and desirable. When we demonstrate it in our interactions with others, we display the transformative power of Christ’s gospel and lead them closer to him.
As we seek to produce this good fruit, may God’s gentle character shine through in you.
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