Pointing to Jesus

Matthew 11:28-29- Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Gentleness is the 8th fruit of the Spirit listed in Galations 5:22-23. Biblical gentleness can be defined as sensitivity of disposition and kindness of behavior, founded on strength and prompted by love. (Bakers Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology). It is closely related to meekness. It is strength and power under control. It is being kind, humble, and respectful to others. It is being able to speak the truth with both strength and power and humility and grace because it is being led by the Spirit.

It is the ability to respond to others with kindness and patience when faced with hostility or aggression. Proverbs 15:1- A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.“ We can respond this way as we continue to spend time with the Holy Spirit and asking Him to fill us up and help us with cultivating this fruit.

Colossians 3:12- Put on then, as God’s holy ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.

Ephesians 4:2- With all humility and gentleness with patience, bearing with one another in love.

Philippians 4:5– Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Jesus is our prime example of gentleness as  He is for everything else. This world can use a lot more gentleness. Let’s all work on cultivating gentleness as we speak with and to others. With the Holy Spirit’s help, we can grow in this fruit of the Spirit.

Blessings,

Desiree