Often associated with weakness, gentleness can be challenging to understand and practice. Our culture overlooks the importance of gentleness, yet the Bible presents it as a powerful and important quality. Translated as “meekness”, it does not mean weakness. It involves humility and thankfulness toward God, and polite, kind behavior toward others. Anger, resentment, a desire for revenge, and promoting oneself as important are the direct opposite of gentleness. As gentleness comes from a state of humility, those lacking this quality are often prideful, feel superior, and easily angered.

Through the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV), the Holy Spirt works in us to be more Christ-like. Gentleness isn’t something we accomplish or achieve. It is the result of walking with Christ and following his Spirit. We are to treat and restore one another in gentleness because we have been given the gentleness of God in Jesus and are empowered to do so with that same Spirit. It is a powerful and transformative quality that reflects the character of Christ. As we follow the Spirit, we become closer to Jesus, experiencing his gentleness towards us. In turn, his gentleness comes out of us.

Praise

Give praise that Jesus shows us the way of gentleness. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29, ESV)

Examine the Scriptures

How is gentleness an attribute of God?

By his grace and mercy. “You have given me the shield of your salvation and your gentleness made me great.”
(2 Samuel 22:36, ESV)

How does God’s character show gentleness?

He is slow to anger. “The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” (Exodus 34:6, ESV)

How does Jesus’ character show gentleness?

He came to us in humility and gentleness. “Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’” (Matthew 21:5, ESV)

How do we grow in gentleness?

Through prayer, asking God to give us a spirit of gentleness and take away any feeling of self-righteousness.

Pray

Holy Father,

It is with gratitude that we come before you for all that you have given us. We give thanks for your mercy, your grace, your presence, and for your gentleness. We pray for the Spirit’s leading, filling us with the gentleness that can only come from you. May it bring glory to you as those we encounter see your image reflected in our hearts.

In Jesus’ name

Amen.