Gentleness

Gentleness is not a spiritual fruit that this world connects with very easily. We need to be tough and individualistic, strong minded. But what does God have to say about it? “A soft or gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1). How about Pr. 25:15 that says that a “gentle tongue breaks a bone.” Really, I won’t get my way that way. Well Titus says, “to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”  That just does not seem right if we want to win. Oh, is that your goal, to win? King David said in Psalm 18 that

“ Your gentleness has made me great, you enlarged my path under me.” Sounds like he won with God’s help.  Paul tells the Philippians to let their gentleness be known to all for the Lord is near. He says to not be anxious about anything, but thankful and then the peace of God will be with us. Gentleness, or forbearance, fair-mindedness, even forgiveness  to all is implied here. This gracious disposition is made possible by God’s grace. This does not come easily for mankind for we are naturally selfish out for ourselves.

Life is about relationships. They require trust with discernment.  God wants us to be thankful in all circumstances. This attitude brings a gentle response. Peter tells us to be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within us, with gentleness and respect.  We need to stand firm on the Truth and the Gospel in a world slipping quickly into a morass of darkness.