A GENTLE SPIRIT

When we commit ourselves in Christ’s ways and walk in godliness, that is, in fear of God (reverential), love, and a desire for Him; we discover that the quality of a gentle spirit is an attribute, which God finds of great value to all of us, both men and women. In James 3:17 the trait of being gentle is evidenced by Heavenly wisdom. That means that our conduct should be wise and he continues saying that we have a mature relationship in our walk with the Lord, because of this. Gentleness will be manifested in our lives (it will show) everywhere we go. It is a fruit of the Spirit (gentleness) as stated in Galatians 5:22, 23. This is a result of our walk with God.

God values gentleness in men and women for it is not a visible adornment like: clothes, jewelry, or the latest fashionable hairstyle. Christ himself exemplifies the gift of gentleness. Many men find this trait not “manly” enough. But if Christ himself - a man sets the example, then the message is for all mankind. It is inappropriate to make exceptions to this truth. Gentleness is to be manifested in our Christian walk, our testimony, and speech; and in the way we treat others. To understand the meaning of the term “gentle” it is helpful to know the opposite or antonym of this word. Here are some opposites according to Webster’s Dictionary: harsh; rough; fierce; irritating; forceful; unpleasant, or non agreeable. Now, if I were to know anyone with these traits, I would find them to be very unfriendly. On the other hand, a gentle person is one who possesses an inward grace of the soul. It is one who demonstrates: moderation; patience; cooperation; humbleness; consideration towards others; fair, and a giver. Wouldn’t you’d rather be with such a person?

My friend, gentleness is not a weakness, but strength under control. It emphasizes the active way we should treat others. “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12) Jesus said to his disciples that the second most important commandment is “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But the first is, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” If we are to obey his command, then we need to walk in Him and reflect his love in us to others. Some argue we don’t have the personality type conducive to the behavior God desires for us to manifest. (Hog wash!) All of us have strength and weaknesses, but all of God’s word applies to all of us.

If we lack gentleness, the Lord will display his power, and change us, in the areas of our greatest weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9, 10) “The Lord says to you: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” If you need this precious quality of a gentle spirit to be more visible in our daily walk, then ask our heavenly Father for He promises to give: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks find; and to him who knocks the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8) BE GENTLE MEANS POWER UNDER CONTROL!