What is Gentleness?

Let your gentleness be evident to all. Philippians 4:5

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. John 16:33a

Gentleness is a behavior that can be seen through being levelheaded, tempered, calm, mature, kind, evenhanded and fair. I think that we all could say that we are seeing way too much of the opposite occurring this year. I see so much pain and hurting all around me; some within my family circle and others throughout the community and world. What can I do? What can we do?

First, we need to remember our own hurts and the difficult times that we have gone through. Most of us who are Christians would say that it is their relationship with Christ that has sustained them. Some might even say that because of Christ they have felt a peace, gentleness and calm that is unexplainable. During difficult times, Christ does not leave us, in fact, it is usually us that leaves Him. We walk away from our quiet time or get distracted by our circumstances. Yet, He is there. He is waiting to wrap His arms around you and show you the way to peace.

Second, we must trust Christ that He knows what is best for us. If we trust Him, the byproduct will be a contagious calm that envelopes our life that others will see and wonder how we can be calm and joyful during our trials. We can share with them why we are able to ride the waves of life. We can be transparent and express that sometimes we might dunk under or gulp in some water, but we rise and we float on Christ our life preserver. As we float on Him we become calm and focused.

Have you learned to float? Have you taught your children to float? It physically goes against what you want to do. You put your head back, your eyes look up, your ears go under the water, you lift your belly towards the sky and relax as your arms and legs float on the surface of the water. Most important you must remain calm; and then, you gently float. Lift your eyes to Christ, let your ears go under water to muffle the noise and relax as you trust the Lord.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;  in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

Prayer: Dear Lord, while the world is telling us to flail our arms and kick our legs, we know that will cause us to sink. Yet, through the saving grace of your Son, we can show others your gentleness and your love. Help us to see opportunities every day to reach a hurting soul. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

For further reading: Philippians 4