THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: GENTLENESS

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

REFERENCE
Galatians 5:22-25

Gentleness speaks of kindness and warm-heartedness; it is the opposite of a harsh and crooked temper. It is mildness of temper, calmness of spirit, and an unruffled disposition to treat people politely. The Greek word for gentleness ‘Prautes’ describes meekness or mildness of disposition. It talks about “power under control” and paints the picture of a horse that had been tamed.

We live in a world today where being very harsh and brash in speech and character seem an acceptable attribute, we think being blunt is a positive attitude and we listen to him who talks the loudest or makes the most noise. We fear the boss who treats us with iron fists and we regard lousy people as ‘hip’ and ‘happening.’ We see gentleness as a sign of weakness; but being harsh towards people never solves a problem, it just engenders bad feelings.

On the other hand, talking calmly to people will better help them see where they are wrong; explaining a situation to them and how you feel will get their attention better. Therefore, gentleness is better than harshness. Many have lost a good job, a good man or woman, good customer, good opportunity or relationship because of harshness, bad manners and brashness.

James Allen an inspirational British writer said this about “Gentleness.” “You will know you are fruitful in gentleness when you bless where others curse; love where others hate; forgive where others condemn; yield where others strive; give up where others grasp; lose where others gain. But in their strength they shall be weak; and in your weakness you shall be strong; yes, you shalt mightily prevail.”

Christians are not called to be touts; we are supposed to be civilized people through the Holy Spirit’s operation in our lives. Sometimes, it feels awkward to be gentle in a world where it is often misunderstood as weakness. But do it unto God because you are filled with the Holy Spirit.

ADDITIONAL STUDY
Proverbs 15:1, Titus 3:1-5, & Colossians 3:12-13

PRAYER POINTS
+ Pray for grace to easily yield and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in you; changing and making you fruitful in gentleness.

+ Ask God to heal from the hurt of people who have taken advantage of your gentleness and counted your meekness for weakness.