Gentleness

By Emily Kane

Gentleness, by definition, is the quality of being kind, tender, or mild-mannered. In today’s society those perceived as gentle can be mistakenly labelled as weak or fragile, however, in a biblical context, gentleness, often translated as “meekness” or “humility”, isn’t weakness at all. Rather it shows strength under control, characterised by a calm demeanour, humility, and consideration for others.

When we look at our lives can we honestly say, like Jesus did, “I am gentle and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29)? This verse from Matthew shows us that Jesus, at His core, is gentle. Contrary to popular belief, Jesus is not harsh, reactionary, or easily exasperated by our sin. He is the most understanding person in the universe. He is not looking down from above, waiting for us to mess up so that He can rain down punishment. Rather the posture most natural to Him is not that of a pointed finger but open arms.

As Christians we are called to reflect Christ in all we do, and yet, as broken people living in a broken world, gentleness is not our natural inclination. We are far more likely to crash through life like a bull in a china shop with very little consideration for how we could be more gentle.

In the run up to the summer let us look at Jesus’ life here on earth and learn from His gentle nature. Let us learn from His compassion for the lost and hurting, His desire to welcome outcasts, His approachability and willingness to listen, His humility and selflessness in all He does, His teaching and His encouragement. Most importantly Jesus’ gentleness is supremely displayed in His forgiveness of us – broken sinful people who in no way deserved to be treated with anything other than God’s wrath.

Even as we try to mirror Christ, we are going to face situations as we serve that will test our patience. As a result our reactions may not always be characterised by gentleness. We might reach that point in the week where we are at our wits’ end and the last thing on our minds might be “Oh I wonder how I can be gentler when I tell this same group of campers to go to sleep for the 14^th time tonight”. Here is where we surrender ourselves and instead rely on the Holy Spirit rather than on ourselves.

Gentleness is not our generation’s default setting, so when our lives gently whisper God’s gentleness the world will listen. God’s gentleness, extended through us, is so shocking to this sinful world that it warrants attention. So, take time to speak gently this summer, go after the one camper who is sitting by themselves, and gently show them the heart of Jesus in everything you do. Jesus, in His mercy, has reached His gentle hand toward us. May the power of His Spirit help us reach out in gentleness toward others this summer and beyond.

Questions to think about:

In what ways does Jesus display gentleness throughout the gospels?

How can we mirror this in our lives?

In which area of your life do you find it hardest to display gentleness?

Pray asking God for His help to foster a spirit of gentleness in your own life so that you may reflect Jesus’ character in all you do.

Further reading:

Monday: Matthew 11:25-30

What comfort can we take from this passage, specifically v29?

Tuesday: Proverbs 15:1-18

How is the fruit of gentleness displayed in your speech?

Wednesday: Ephesians 4:1-16

How is the fruit of gentleness displayed in your relationships?