When the Holy Spirit fills and flows through our
lives, the attributes of Christ are manifested. That is the very definition of
grace: the manifestation of the character of Christ for the benefit of
others. The flow of grace is what
gentleness is all about. It is a
controlled outflow of grace directed at their need: giving, doing, and
being what is best and most beneficial for them.
The Hebrew word ‘anawa
and the Greek word prautes are
also translated “humility” in the Old and New Testament. Both of these words refer to the prioritizing
of others. There is an acknowledged
inner strength or ability, however the flow is determined solely by what is
best for them. Gentleness/humility is
the opposite of being consumed with self-interest. (Philippians 2:3-5) Gentleness is “ not about me.”
Scriptures:
- Psalm 18:35
- Proverbs 22:4
- Matthew 5:5
- Matthew 11:29
- Galatians 6:1
- Ephesians 4:1-3
- Colossians 3:12-13
- Philippians 4:5
- 1 Timothy 6:11
- 2 Timothy 2:24-26
- James 1:21
- James 3:13,17
- 1 Peter 3:3-4, 14-16
O
Lord, we have such a narrow view of what gentleness truly entails. We think
soft, meek and mild. There are definitely situations where we appreciate being
the recipient of gentleness. It is one of the first things we try to teach our
children as they interact with each other and weaker animals or fragile toys.
But in our culture, we have a tendency to also think weak and wimpy. Gentleness
is not something that gets a lot of press, as power and rights are
prioritized. But you are anything but
weak and wimpy. You are all-powerful, yet you clearly state that you are
“gentle and humble of heart.” There is a hiding, a withholding of your power
for our sake. (Habakkuk 3:4) You know what we need, in what dosage. You prioritize us and our needs.
Psalm
18:35 tells us that it is your “gentleness” that makes us “great.” It makes us
what we need to be and what you want us to be.
It makes us like you! At the heart of gentleness is genuine
selflessness. Gentleness puts the needs and the growth of others before any
personal benefit. Gentleness never imposes its rights or power on another. It
comes from a strong core of faith, compassion, integrity, of knowing and
wanting to be like you. Lord, create in me a gentle and quiet spirit that is
precious in your sight.
As
a family, let your gentleness be evident in each one of us. Gentleness, like
all the elements of this Fruit of Grace, requires your filling to be
manifested. You provide “a heart of
compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,” but we have to put it
on. We have to make the choice that others
are worth the cost and effort. Help us to do that day-by-day as we interact
with each other and with those you bring into our lives. Help us to speak and
respond in a spirit of gentleness. Please give to us godly wisdom that is
gentle – thoroughly appropriate, balanced in response, insightful for what is
truly best for the other, and willing to withhold what we could do or want to
do, so others are honored and if necessary find mercy.
Lord,
I cannot thank you enough for the gentleness with which you constantly treat my
family and me. Manifest your gentleness
in us, so others see you and come to know your gentleness in their own lives.
