“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Gal.5:22-23.
Gentleness can be defined as the quality or characteristic of being kind, tender, mild
mannered, compassionate and considerate in the way you act and speak.
Gentleness is demonstrated in:
Forgiveness. After being betrayed by his brothers, Joseph chose mercy over
revenge. In Genesis 45, he weeps and embraces them, showing a heart
softened by God’s purpose.
Listen actively and responding with grace even when you are hurt.
Seeking reconciliation instead of retaliation
Letting go of the need to dominate or always be right
Letting God work it out His own way and time when you feel the urge to control
the outcome or take matters into your hand. David had multiple chances to kill
King Saul, who was hunting him. Yet he chose restraint, saying, “I will not raise
my hand against the Lord’s anointed” (1 Samuel 24:10).
Trying to understand others’ perspectives before judging or reacting.
Speaking with kindness, even when correcting or confronting.
Avoiding sarcasm, harsh criticism, or passive aggression.
Letting your tone reflect compassion and humility
Gentleness isn’t weakness—it’s strength under control. Paul’s pastoral heart was tender
and yet firm. “But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own
children.” 1Thess.2:7. Gentleness often begins with restraint. When provoked, pause
and breathe before responding. This pause allows space for grace to enter your
response.
Jesus is the ultimate example:
- Matthew 11:29: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and
humble in heart…” - He showed gentleness in how He welcomed children, forgave sinners, and
responded to hostility with grace (e.g., the woman caught in adultery in John 8).
The more you walk in fellowship with the Holy Spirit, the more naturally gentleness flows
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK.
Meditation on the word of God brings revelation and ownership of the scripture. Just as
you cannot spend the money you do not have you cannot spend the scripture you do
not own. When you spend (confess) the scripture you have taken ownership of the
Angels go to work for you.